Gryphon Diablo 300 — The New Reference Integrated
INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER · 300W/CH · GRYPHON · REVIEW
Nearly 10 years ago, the original Gryphon Diablo brought newfound credibility to the integrated amplifier — a category previously scorned by serious audiophiles. So far ahead of its time, it remained the reference in its class for a full decade. Gryphon Diablo is possibly the most popular high-end integrated amplifier ever made. Despite thousands of units sold, its virtual absence from the second-hand market tells you everything about its owners’ loyalty.
Taking It Further
In designing the Diablo 300, Gryphon drew heavily on concepts and breakthroughs from the Pandora preamplifier and Mephisto power amplifier. The result: 300W into 8Ω (double the original Diablo), 600W into 4Ω, and 950W into 2Ω. Extreme wideband frequency response from 0.5Hz to 350kHz. A power reservoir of 68,000µF. Local active shunt regulators for superior noise suppression. No negative feedback — avoiding the intrinsic time delay of feedback loops and the intermodulation distortion between time-offset signals.
Vinyl and Digital Options
An optional DAC PCM/DSD module based on the Gryphon Kalliope converter adds five digital inputs including USB (PCM to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD512 on Windows). An optional MM/MC phonostage is available for vinyl devotees.
Two Days With the Diablo 300
The unit was well played in by its owner and ready for serious testing. Comparing against my references — the Krell FPB700 and Pass Labs XA30.5 — the Diablo 300 falls right between them. It nearly has the Krell’s slam but carries the Pass Labs’ finesse. It sits right between them in warmth too. Equaling the Pass Labs on the fine trebles; matching the Krell in bass authority. For €20,000+ it is not cheap by any standard, but it justifies the price with authority.
