Gryphon Diablo 120 vs. Luxman L-509x

@dbt

Have you managed to compare the Gryphon Diablo 120 to your Luxman L-509X? If yes, I would be interested in your thoughts.I read that it’s slightly darker sounding than the Diablo 300 with reduced vice-like grip in the bass. Nevertheless, still typical Gryphon sound but with less of the "magic touch" of its bigger brother.

The Diablo 300 is too heavy and chunky for my preferences though apart from the higher price.

@ryder

Unfortunately, I never compared the Gryphon Diablo 120 in my system. I decided to buy a Holo Audio Serene KTE preamp to pair with my Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE DAC because I wanted to go back to separates for more flexibility. So, I’m actually looking to sell the Luxman L-509x integrated if I find an amp that will outperform it with my new preamp. However, I’m still considering the Diablo 120 if I can’t find an amp that will outperform the Luxman integrated. From what I have read and heard on YouTube videos about the Diablo 120, it’s a beast and sweeter sounding over its big brother, Diablo 300. If I had to choose between the Diablo 120 and 300 without hearing them, I would buy the 120 because it has enough power for me and may provide the more relaxed sound of the two without giving up the grip on the drivers that Gryphon is known for.

The Music Room recently advertised a Diablo 120 for sell at about $7k and they give the buyer 14 days to return it for any reason. I didn’t buy it because I sold my speakers and will be ordering a new pair soon, so my amp search is on hold for now. I plan to try the Apollon Purifi 1ET7040SA amp and Sparkos SS2590 Pro Opamp https://apollonaudio.com/product/purifi-1et7040sa-based-stereo-amplifier/. Let me know how you like the Diablo 120 or 300 if you decide to audition it in your system.

I heard all of them. I prefer the Diablo 300. Very few amps/integrateds can do bass like the 300. Luxman integrated's are highly overrated for their perceived power output. An $8.5K failed experiment confirmed that. They are great with higher-sensitivity speakers, I would assume.