2. amps-preamps
  3. 132108-1570

Upgrading form Pass integrated amplifier to a better one

Hello,

Currently I have a PASS INT-250 integrated amplifier . The Pass INT-250 is a very good integrated (in my system it was overall better than Plinius Hiato, Gamut D150se, Mark Levinson 535, Vitus RI-100,  Accuphase E-470 and some others) but I can't get rid of the feeling that I miss some explosiveness (drum kicks for example) and micro details.

I know that its not the speakers. The new Sonus faber tradition I have are much more open, dynamic and airy than previous Guarneri Evos, Elipasas SE and Amati Anniversarious I used to own. And before buying them I auditioned the Serafinos with Audio Research separates and it was the amazing combo. But I really prefer not to go the separates road ( ICs, power cords and space contribute to financial constrains also) and even so I like the combo of Pass and Serafinos overall but from time to time looking for some better integrated on the market.

Currently I presented with a good opportunity to buy latest Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated or latest just released Accuphase E-650.  No possiblilty to demo them, so I am asking here on the forum if anybody can comment if Gryphon Diablo 300 or Accuphase E-650 will be better integrated than Pass INT250 overall and especially in terms of dynamics, micro details and harmonics.

Any advise and opinion would be very appreciated.

My system: Esoteric K-05x, Pass INT-250, Sonus Faber Serafinos, all cabling are the Shunyata Sigmas.

Room is 12" wide by 17" long. Listen mostly acoustic jazz and chamber classical on low to moderate levels.


Thank you.


denon1
denon1 OP
329 posts
 
Bob, I did not listen the 120 but I called gryphon myself and they told me that diablo 300 has class A  dual mono preamplifier stage that is taken from their refference preamplifier. This contributes to more deatails and better instrument placements in the sound reproduction 
The 120 does not have it.
bobheinatz
706 posts
 
denon1,
Ok, that would make a difference.  I had thought that the Diablo 120 was simply a scaled  down version of the Diablo 300 using the same preamplifier  stage.  6 moons will be releasing their review very soon on the 120.  It will be interesting because they had reviewed the Diablo 300 and I am sure there will be some type of comparison.  I know the 300 is a beast.  
smoffatt
205 posts
 
I shall wait for this anticipated review. Why pay more for added power that it is not really needed. I currently own a pair of tube monoblocks delivering 110w/ch with satisfying results.
Watt for watt, I wonder if a Vitus SIA-025 is not a better amp than a Diablo 120. There are 2 SIA-025 for sale here on agon for $14K.
bobheinatz
706 posts
 
I have heard the SIA-025 and it sounded sublime.  Since the SIA-025 has been out for a few years used pricing is a great deal.  How it compares to either Diablo would simply be a guess in my part.
dguitarnut
136 posts
 
I have had both the Diablo 300 and the 120 over for audition in my system.
The 300 is the beast to get.  My Pass Int-60 held its own against the 120 but fell on its face compared to the 300 imho.  
 I’m saving up for the 300 unless I get lured into getting the new Luxman L-509x
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