Gryphon Diablo 333 Integrated Amplifier

THE GRYPHON

DIABLO 333 integrated amplifier

Improving and surpassing the legendary Diablo 300 was no easy feat: Launched at High End Munich 2015, the Diablo 300 set a new benchmark for integrated amplifier performance. With unanimous praise from the high-end press and thousands of units sold, the Diablo 300 has maintained its 'best-in-class' status for nearly a decade, consistently beating out newer and more expensive competitors.

However, in the last eight years, new component technologies and intensive technical research have revealed opportunities for improvement. Circuitry highlights from the new Apex and Commander, Gryphon's flagship amp and preamp, have been incorporated into the Diablo 333, which boasts ten percent more power output than its legendary predecessor. New ultra-fast, low-capacitance pre-driver transistors ensure both improved musicality and superior measurement performance.

Looking at the 333 and the Gryphon DNA is evident:

The triangular display with the 4.3-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen is reminiscent of the aesthetics that Gryphon founder Flemming Rasmussen developed for the Apex and Commander, as are the custom-made chassis spikes, which ensure both the mechanical integrity and the improve visual harmony. Also developed for the Apex, Gryphon's custom binding posts are also found on the back of the 333. The Commander remote control, machined from a block of aluminum, replaces the 'wand' remote control supplied with the Diablo 300. A new, more intuitive menu structure improves the user interface, while a USB 2.0 socket on the back of the Diablo simplifies firmware upgrades.

Like the Diablo 300, the 333 can be fitted with optional phono and DAC modules that have been completely redesigned for the new amplifier. The PS-3 RIAA module features a true dual mono Class A coupled topology from input to output, with no global negative feedback and discrete balanced circuits with matched transistor arrays. Gold-plated balanced Neutrik XLR input jacks replace the previous generation RCA jacks.

The MC load impedance can be adjusted externally with left/right switches on the rear panel, as opposed to the internal jumpers found on the PS-2S. The MC/MM setting is selectable from the Diablo 333 front panel menu. Gryphon's new DAC-3 D/A MODULE includes the latest high-performance Saber DAC: the ES9039PRO. Seven user-selectable PCM digital roll-off filters are included, as is a full range of USB, AES/EBU, BNC and TOSLINK inputs. The 333's USB input is compatible with all major digital audio formats.

features

- True dual mono configuration
- No global negative feedback
- Microprocessor controlled 43-step balanced - relay volume control for best sonic performance with only 1-2 resistors in series with the signal at all levels.
- Local shunt controls for best noise reduction
- Ten high-performance output transistors per channel
- Diablo 333 uses new ultra-fast, low-capacitance pre-driver transistors.
- Polypropylene capacitors for local decoupling of the power supply
- Optional phono stage module, PS3 MM/MC
- Optional DAC3 module with a USB, 2 x SPDIF, 1 AES and 1 optical input
- Ultra short signal path
- Minimal internal wiring
- Four-layer circuit boards with 70µ copper on all layers
Dual mono Holmgren toroidal transformer
- Jacks mounted on the PCB eliminate wiring and shorten the signal path.
- Gold-plated neutral XLR jacks for two balanced sources
- Gold-plated phono jacks with Teflon insulation for two inputs and two outputs
- Gold plated custom Gryphon binding posts.
- Fixed level AV pass-through for uncompromised integration with surround preamp.
- Input level adjustment
- 4.3" TFT capacitive touchscreen with 4mm tempered glass on the front
- Intuitive menu structure
- 12Vdc link input and output
- Infrared receive input via rear panel input
- Firmware upgradeable via USB 2.0 socket on the back
- Non-invasive protection system
- Infrared remote
- EU CE approval
- Power consumption in standby mode < 0.5 W
- Designed and manufactured in Denmark
- Exterior design by Flemming E. Rasmussen
- Electronic design by Tom Møller