Gryphon Apex & Commander First Impressions: Should We Return Them?

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  • čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
  • Adrian has a mental breakdown after spending plenty of his own $$s on a Gryphon Apex & Commander. What went wrong?
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    Filmed and Edited by: mike@audioexcellence.ca

Komentáře • 198

  • @henriksrensen3220
    @henriksrensen3220 Před 6 měsíci +14

    I will never be able to buy the Gryphon Apex/commander. But 3 years ago i bought the Gryphon Diablo 120 integrated amp. I love it. So musical.

  • @tarichar8
    @tarichar8 Před 6 měsíci +25

    I was contemplating buying nine of these for my home theater but now I know not to waste my money. Thanks.

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +12

      LOL only NINE? what about putting a tenth one in the kitchen for background listening and maybe hooking another one to your bedroom's tv, you know, to add a little "ambience" to late night viewing plus the heat might help warm the room up a little wink wink

    • @antonyharding5360
      @antonyharding5360 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Very interesting, I could feel your frustration .had times like that that myself .
      Regards, antony...

    • @garfieldsmith332
      @garfieldsmith332 Před 6 měsíci

      What about those 11 and 13 channel pre-amps? And the need to bi-amp the main 2 channels. And of course 4 sub-woofers; why use their built in amps? However their is a BIG cost to build a fully reinforced floor so that the system does not crack the foundation due to weight.

  • @tkl0111
    @tkl0111 Před 6 měsíci +19

    Appreciate the honest story. Unfortunately Jay audio lab can't do this. Everything is hidden behind figuratively and literal cover. And Jay isn't even a dealer 😂

    • @nirodha35
      @nirodha35 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Adrian, comparing yourself (even jokingly) to Jay is not wise. You are waaaaaay better. Jay doesn’t have a sincere bone in his body, he is fake

    • @davewin1792
      @davewin1792 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Experience will always trump what you think you know. Adrian has great depth. Jay is a good honest man. It will come with time.

  • @davewin1792
    @davewin1792 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Thank you for mentioning long term listening. John curl has mentioned this in a few interviews. Hugely important and really the only way to properly evaluate gear.

  • @edwinsim7206
    @edwinsim7206 Před 6 měsíci +5

    Gryphon amplifiers for the most part looks to be the most imposing and intimidating amplifiers. They look very industrial and all business. Iron fist in a velvet glove comes to mind. Thanks for the honest reveal; I can't imagine spending the mega bucks on the combo to get the sound you initially encountered. Glad you realized what had transpired. Great review!

  • @elderinmoi1571
    @elderinmoi1571 Před 6 měsíci +4

    Nice story. I totally get it. Been thru this, too (incl. „senior moments“ lol). The relief you feel when finally all comes together and you hear the magic that you hoped for… priceless. Regarding power I can only tell you that I run my MC611 at barely 6W on average but I am getting that 600W sound even then. 9 also can’t explain but it’s real.

    • @patrickmeylemans9627
      @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci

      Using 6 watt and hearing 600 watt… hhmmm. Can someone explain this without gibberisch jadajadajada. A good amp and some spare watts ok, heard an Accuphase 30W class A / 8Ohm and it was nice very nice. 30W into 8Ohm => 15,5V and 1.93A you don’t need a nucleair power plant for that 🎧

    • @AudiolandCH
      @AudiolandCH Před 6 měsíci

      Whats the 600w sound? You mean more headroom at low listening levels?

  • @mr.seanster
    @mr.seanster Před 6 měsíci +1

    ALways feels like sitting down with a friend when I watch you. I wish I am closer because I would definitely visit you and have some chat. However, my pocket will be less full because of it.

  • @siropasrangphet8195
    @siropasrangphet8195 Před 6 měsíci +4

    So glad you got there in the end. They are quite incredible amplification.

  • @thomasperina2990
    @thomasperina2990 Před 6 měsíci +5

    Hello Fellow Audiophiles And Friends: Adrian thank you for your Gryphon review video. I clearly understand what you are saying. The WOW factor was missing especially with the extreme costs. I always appreciate your expert opinion. Thank you again sir, TMP from N.J.

    • @henriksrensen3220
      @henriksrensen3220 Před 6 měsíci

      The wow factor was not missing

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Thanks. Thankfully the magic is happening now. I’m been listening to the system since 5am and it’s pretty darn good!

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      Were you able to listen until the end Thomas? The WOW factor DID kick in when Adrian upped the BIAS to where it should be

  • @mahasidha9
    @mahasidha9 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Too much care and feeding; thank you for your candor.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Thanks. And yes it’s high maintenance

  • @davidbee8178
    @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +3

    This is a great tale with a great outcome that we can all learn from . . . at first, let's not blame our tools when something goes awry AND when in doubt, read the manual LOL Thanks for your fun review Adrian! BUT . . . for a 170K USD, I'd want the thing to do the vacuuming, the dishes and walk the dog ALL at the same time :-)

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Agreed. The irony is that I actually read the manual… the first time in a very long time.

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      @@adrianlow2114 LOL ! Perhaps these 3:30 AM listening sessions are taking their toll :-)

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      @@davidbee8178hehe

  • @Turboy65
    @Turboy65 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I want to see an amp like this put through the same complete test and measurement sequence twice, once when it's at cold bias, and the second time, at high bias and fully warmed up. I want to SEE how the measurements change. Just because that interests me.

  • @chuanyewlee9502
    @chuanyewlee9502 Před 6 měsíci +4

    Thanks for a frank and honest review. It will take a special breed of audiophiles who will leave these amps powered on at L bias and then when wanting to listen to music, wait another 45mins for it to stabilise at M/H bias so it can perform well. I would think from a practical standpoint these 100K++ amps need to do a far better job on L bias.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      It sounds fine on L Bias. But the promised magic isn’t there on L. And to be fair Gryphon doesn’t want to design class AB power amps as they don’t feel that gives the magic they are after

  • @jerrystecher6782
    @jerrystecher6782 Před 6 měsíci +5

    Much enjoy all your content. Thank you. As a Tesla owner I would advise when you want to change temperature tap the mic button on the steering wheel and just say what temperature you want, or just about anything else. No need to fiddle with the screen at all.😊

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +2

      Thanks. Have tried that but it doesn’t always work. One of the first things they teach in engineering is to make things as simple as possible but not more. Having some physical controls is a good thing in my opinion. If the screen or the computer that controls the screen goes bad, there is no recourse.

  • @miked91101
    @miked91101 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Not sure how i would feel about an amplifier that gives me a different quality of sound depending on the volume of my music! Krell has an integrated amp that provides class A until you hit a certain power output, then goes to class A/B

  • @howardskeivys4184
    @howardskeivys4184 Před 6 měsíci

    I’m with you on the physical/tactile controls. Far superior to touchscreen. I’m also with you on the blu-tooth remote. When I recently upgraded my rig. I had a purpose built media cabinet designed to house it. Fronted by tinted glass doors. I like my hifi to be heard not seen! I thought my infra red remotes would penetrate that tinted glass. They don’t. Now, annoyingly, I have to leave one door slightly open on the side of the cabinet that houses my preamp and CD transport. Blu-tooth would have eradicated that issue.

  • @psyphonyxaudio
    @psyphonyxaudio Před 6 měsíci

    Really nice deep dive on these. Valuable for " evaluating gear " for anyone with short temper or patience.
    Nice to know how things turned out.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      lol. I don’t usually have short temper. But it definitely was pretty vexing

    • @psyphonyxaudio
      @psyphonyxaudio Před 6 měsíci

      @adrianlow2114 .... Haha... I def wasn't referring to you directly... but for somethings in life.. I believe we all have a limit on either time wasted.. money.. or expectation threshold.
      Happy to hear of the outcome. 🙏🙏

  • @wongwave7112
    @wongwave7112 Před 6 měsíci +1

    To me, the first threshold of a high-end hi fi system is the beautiful and graceful enough effortless sound quality produced.
    I take break-in of a component sort of different from its run-in into a system.
    My guess is....often, it needs a period of run-in time at "normal audit operating level", when taking an already run-well component in one system to synchronize adequately into a different set of system "first time". This even often applies to things like cables and interlinks as well.
    In a pure class A amp, high bias gives the full engine running state designed, thereby a different run-in or running state.

  • @michaelscheerer1986
    @michaelscheerer1986 Před 6 měsíci +2

    Many thanks, Adrian, very interesting story, you deliver here. As an owner of a Gryphon Diablo 300 I must say, I am not missing any Pro/Power amp combo at all, even not from Gryphon. I think that modern hifi technic at this high level makes those boxes kind of redundant. An integrated amp as the Diablo is as good as his siblings. I listened to both lines at my dealer‘s studio and I couldn’t hear any difference. Told it to the dealer and he smiled. The combo is a tiny bit better, was his response. Well, for me that’s psychoacoustics. The combo is 100 000 bucks more expensive. So it must be better, right?

    • @AudiolandCH
      @AudiolandCH Před 6 měsíci +1

      Integrated vs dedicated pre/poweramp is not the same. Having separate powersupplys helps already. Maybe your setup is lacking something else, you will notice an improvement from separates.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      I wish that was the case. What I didn't say in the video was that my friend has my Diablo 300 in his house. It's unofficially his now as he refuses to give it back. We did a quick comparison and it just wasn't as good. Believe me, I didn't want to spend the money!

    • @AudiolandCH
      @AudiolandCH Před 6 měsíci

      @@adrianlow2114 have you heard the 333 before?

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      @@AudiolandCH not yet

  • @rw3915
    @rw3915 Před 6 měsíci +2

    Class A amps and heat... Adrian should emphasize this. I upgraded from a Pass Labs XA-100.5 to the big boy XA-200.5 and let me tell you, I literally roast. I have to run fans so the listening area does not become a sauna. Anyways, keep up the good work Adrain. It's great to hear a actual retailer chime in and provide input on how a particular manufacturer's equipment sounds. Out of curiosity, why don't you carry Pass Labs? Thanks & keep up the good work.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      Thanks. Pass Labs is already represented by another dealer.

  • @1999zrx1100
    @1999zrx1100 Před 6 měsíci +1

    My God, I thought my Luxman Class A was power hungry @ 320 watts.
    This Gryphon is off the charts. Power consumption (Maximum): 3700W.
    Power consumption (Idle): Bias H: 1000W / Bias M: 660W / Bias L: 320W.
    Your not kidding when you say it’ll heat the room. 🤓

  • @user-eh3qz4zv1o
    @user-eh3qz4zv1o Před 6 měsíci +1

    Great talk on the new Gryphon. You caught my attention with your heading and thought this can not be! I have a feeling you will like the Apex more and more as time goes on. I think there is one pair pre/amp you need to bring in and compare.
    That is Block Audio... Dollar for dollar + I don't believe it can be beat.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      Thanks. Have to pause for a while before I look at new lines… I’m broke lol

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      Hi I have not heard of Block - are you a dealer? any online reviews that you can recommend? Just curious :-)

  • @stephencosta6814
    @stephencosta6814 Před 6 měsíci +4

    I am sure it is an awesome product. It certainly looks impressive. I definitely cannot afford that but even if I could, I don’t think I would spend that type of money regardless of how much I have just my thoughts I think any amplifier at $10,000 and above is more than enough for maybe 90% of the people audio file that is people❤

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +2

      Agree in sentiment. But I have obsessive compulsive tendencies and it’s hard to stop when I’m having fun lol

    • @stephencosta6814
      @stephencosta6814 Před 6 měsíci

      @@adrianlow2114 we all can say we have OCD and some form or another. How about we control it instead of it controlling us pretty simple to me to understand that just saying.🙏🏻❤️

    • @marksanzone4948
      @marksanzone4948 Před 5 měsíci

      ​@@stephencosta6814$$$ fixes everything, right?!! Lolol!! 😊😊😊

  • @perfectsoundpursuit007
    @perfectsoundpursuit007 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Wow, big mistake with bias.. He offer cable between pre and amp, for change bias auto.. But i remove it, to high bias only.. No matter volume. Of course a buy ac for room. Good review. BR

  • @egi75
    @egi75 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I had a similar experience with using amps. I tried a stereo power amp with 2x150 watt for avantgarde acoustic Trios. Theoretically that should have been more than sufficient power. I was surprised that using two of those power amps in a 2x mono configuration did improve the liveliness of the music playback significantly and gave me that "magic" experience you referret to.

  • @carlesjuliavallmajo3812

    Hi Adrian , i felt the same , Gryphon is too " cold " , nothing like Mcintosh and italian amps ( norma , angstrom , pathos , unison ) thanks and regards , from spain/ france

  • @rocketbrothers540
    @rocketbrothers540 Před 6 měsíci

    Great video Adrian, can’t wait to hear what you think of your new amps heading your way. 😎

  • @veroman007
    @veroman007 Před 6 měsíci +3

    My first thought was you’re not getting enough fiber thank God it was the bias

  • @patrickmeylemans9627
    @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Correct, low sensitieve speakers at high volumes demand power. But 100db is very load, earplugs 😂

  • @patrickmeylemans9627
    @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Could be but the best results I heard where not created by the most powerful amps but hood class A amps. And in all cases 30W was more than enough, barely need more then a few watts....

  • @larrymarcus7076
    @larrymarcus7076 Před 6 měsíci

    you would never dive into a brand without being sure; like your videos

  • @robertschannon5104
    @robertschannon5104 Před 6 měsíci

    I have written to you before. You are humble and self effacing. I enjoy watching your videos. This is unlike others who say they want to inform but clearly like to hear themselves speak. That being said, The I chuckled about your left handed issues. The issue is likely not your handedness. You are likely left eyed!! You have accommodated for this when using your left hand. When forced to use your right hand your eyes may not be set for right hand use. To test this out, look at a finger held out in front of you with both eyes. Then cover your left eye. If your finger seems to jump to one side or another, the issue with your Tesla more likely your eyes,not your hand!!😂

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      I tried the test and it doesn’t appear that I’m left eye dominant

  • @mrk8212
    @mrk8212 Před 6 měsíci +4

    wait.. you mean the musical return on spending $170k for an amp and preamp doesn't support that cost? who knew

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +1

      In the end, Adrian dialled in the proper bias level to get the "magic" that he was looking for - having said that, IMHO one can get similar or better performance for less $ - 170k is just not necessary to ENJOY one's music :-)

  • @Coneman3
    @Coneman3 Před 6 měsíci

    I went with Audio Music brand. Very high end for sensible pricing.

  • @tuathadedanann195
    @tuathadedanann195 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Low feedback designs are meant to have relatively high low order and pleasing harmoic distortion but intermodulation distortion and higher order harmonic distortion should be at vanishingly low levels. Stereophile measurements showed that this design has high levels of high order harmonic distortion and high levels of intermodulation distortion which kind of defeats the point. They also found massive channel imbalances in certain measurements. So this doesn't come as a surprise to me. Benchmark and Bryston do far better jobs for a fraction of the price with none of these issues. Very dissapointing.

  • @ashvarma2486
    @ashvarma2486 Před 6 měsíci

    Thanks for sharing your very honest thoughts. Which 200K amps are getting to compare? Really looking forward to your comparison. Also a huge Miles fan. Happy listening.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Keep watching. The first video will drop soon

  • @paulomontero12
    @paulomontero12 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I guess in theory one doesn't need to heat the music room in the winter months 😂

  • @skip1835
    @skip1835 Před 6 měsíci +1

    A testimony of your critical hearing prowess Adrian - with that amount of money on the line and all of your initial excitement you could have so easily allowed yourself to be swayed into thinking that what you were hearing was much better than you ultimately found it to be, my hats off to you for trusting your ears - - I'm kind of grinning at the cable deniers, sorry fellas, Adrian didn't need an Audio Precision Analyzer to prove something wasn't right, truth is, the man is initially only hearing one setting and presentation which turns out to be a more typical A/B configuration - - not like he's even ABing anything, he isn't "comparing" anything, he's simply auditioning a power amplifier, yes, with his ears! Imagine that!! - - Anyway, you know I'm kidding a bit but nicely done Adrian, what you went through, which obviously included thoughts of "bailing" from Gryphon, was a much bigger deal than you're giving yourself credit for.

  • @charlesnr
    @charlesnr Před 6 měsíci

    Always dreamed of the original Gryphon CD player. So, finish the system with the current version, even though most of us can never afford it.

  • @robertmeyer7664
    @robertmeyer7664 Před 6 měsíci

    In 210 watts class A the secondary power supply turns on more capacitors more transistors in series greater voltage swing

  • @davidbee8178
    @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Great story Adrian! . . . JUST curious - given the exceptional sound and tone you experienced from the Maria, would it be THAT crazy to compare it to this 300 pound behemoth? IMHO it might make for some VERY interesting copy :-)

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      I was thinking the exact same thing lol

  • @JRadian
    @JRadian Před 6 měsíci +5

    You mention Jay's Audio Lab. How about some well-recorded sound samples like Jay's to give us a taste of general character, even if not 100% same as life? While many count out YT audio quality, some channels prove one can definitely tell the RELATIVE differences between A-B-C.

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +1

      I think you make perfect sense when you say "RELATIVE" . . . I've tried to get this across to a LOT of folks who say such and such a system "sounds great". What in fact they are saying is that THEIR system sounds great . . . relatively speaking :-)

  • @shanestephenson8423
    @shanestephenson8423 Před 6 měsíci +1

    G'day Adrian I know how you can fix the left-handed issue, come live in Australia mate we drive on the opposite side of the car meaning you're left hand and preferred hand will be the one controlling the centre screen lol.
    I've listened to pretty much all of the Gryphon amplifiers over my time, and I've owned a Diablo 300.
    I've heard quite a few D'Agostino and earlier iterations of Dan's amplifiers over the years.
    I'd have to say the commander and Apex combination is the best I've heard from Gryphon audio so far.
    I currently have Vitus monoblocks and preamp in my system and love them. Also, pure class A.
    Thanks for your in-depth initial thoughts in relation to these products. I found this very interesting, and it can be a bit of a trick with the bias settings.
    Now with my own audio channel, I don't have a lot of time to watch other channels, but I've been a subscriber for many years now as I think you know, and I always find time to listen to your perspective. Thanks for all you do for the industry, Adrian.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Thanks Shane. I’ll find my way there one day

    • @shanestephenson8423
      @shanestephenson8423 Před 6 měsíci

      @adrianlow2114 You'd be very welcome Adrian in fact, I'd be honoured.🙏🎧🙂

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      @@shanestephenson8423👌

  • @mpp9964
    @mpp9964 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I like how Adrian is always saying how he goes into the store at 3:30 or 4am. Such uncommon behaviour. I find that interesting

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      I never got over my jet lag from my last trip to Italy a few years ago.

  • @stephenleung369
    @stephenleung369 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Great video ❤ I am going to upgrade my gryphon from EVO mono to Apex. Should I go for the Apex Mono

  • @va23
    @va23 Před 6 měsíci

    If I remembered correctly, Rune Skov once told me that I should always set the Gryphon in high bias

  • @timothylindsay3244
    @timothylindsay3244 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I guessed lack of Omega-3 fatty acids….wrong again!
    Recommendation: trade the Tesla in for a Porsche Turbo 992.2.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      My days of ICE vehicles are over. Had plenty of Porsches but I’m happy with the Tesla Y for what it does in total

  • @gadymarcus2362
    @gadymarcus2362 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Bello/Magnifico.💥💥💥💥💥💥💨

  • @muahaha5929
    @muahaha5929 Před 6 měsíci +4

    Anyone even thinking about getting this combo, is not worried about an electricity bill.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Yes you’re likely right. Just my poor upbringing that keeps rearing up

    • @garfieldsmith332
      @garfieldsmith332 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Big issue is when you turn it on all the neighbourhood lights dim. Makes for angry neighbours.

  • @ericstefko4852
    @ericstefko4852 Před 6 měsíci +1

    It would be cool if you could bring in more Canadian products have you every listened to Tenor Audio equipment ?

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      Unfortunately only at shows

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      Tenor IS very VERY good and looks wise , IMHO, much better looking than this over the top styling of the Gryphon stuff which the end user has to pay for and doesn't add anything to the sound quality

  • @alaincayer8999
    @alaincayer8999 Před 6 měsíci

    To me it would be interesting to have a "scientific" explanation why my Luxman 20 watt classe A amplifier consumes 230 watt and the Gryphon Apex consumes 3700 watt at 1000 Watt Biais High. It's not a linear ratio. Thank you Adrian

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      It's a good question. Problem is different manufacturers may use different definitions of Class A. Also, the "efficiency" of the design may also play a part

  • @pswitzeny
    @pswitzeny Před 6 měsíci +2

    The best was the end! 🤣 You could have also taped the script to the ceiling/above you. Unlike unboxings, MORE BAD ACTING PLEASE!! 🤣🤣

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      lol. Mike snuck that in at the end. Thank God he didn’t preannounce it at the beginning

    • @pswitzeny
      @pswitzeny Před 6 měsíci

      @@adrianlow2114 Naw!! He really should have STARTED the video with it! 🤣

  • @jeffreythurston1822
    @jeffreythurston1822 Před 6 měsíci +1

    At this level of engineering and cost, they should be amazing no matter what mode they are in. If you have to talk yourself into them being worth their price then they aren’t.

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +1

      A class A amplifier NEEDS to run at a certain bias to operate in an ideal "window" to reach its sound potential in much the same way certain performance cars require higher octane fuel to run at their full performance potential.

    • @jeffreythurston1822
      @jeffreythurston1822 Před 6 měsíci

      @@davidbee8178 Yes I’m aware how a class A amp works. My point is don’t offer a class A/B option. I’m not spending $100k on a piece of equipment just to listen to it at its worse. Even in Class A it doesn’t seem like it meets its obligation of competing with other options out there based on this review.

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      @@jeffreythurston1822 I'm in no way a Gryphon fan boy believe me and I'm almost sure that similar quality of sound or even better (maybe?) might be had for less BUT in THIS case, I believe that given the level of heat the amp generates, Gryphon perhaps wants to give their owners the ability/option to adjust the bias depending on their listening preferences - on low bias for background listening for instance and medium to high for more critical listening. Adrian DID conclude that once it operated in high bias Class A, the Gryphon DID render its "magic" but as it pertains to "meeting its obligation of competing with other options out there" it is a little premature to say that based on this review because he will get to comparing the Gryphon to others in a future video . . . Having said ALL THAT . . . I have to say that . . .
      Even if I had that kind of cash, I don't think I'd opt for a 300 pound behemoth that needs 2 or three people to set it in place AND pay all that money for a ton of features and fancy displays that don't add anything to the listening experience :-)

  • @danedes9297
    @danedes9297 Před 6 měsíci

    Very nice review. A side question, which recording of Meditation from Thais do you prefer?

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      DAvid Nadien, Michael Rabin, Anne-Sophie Mutter are a few I love

  • @flex-cx9bi
    @flex-cx9bi Před 6 měsíci +2

    The more into class A the more linear part of the transition curve you are using. No magic.
    Higher bias current will be more linear and have less amplitude of higher order harmonics of distortion. So higher bias will sound somewhat different than lower current bias of an amplifier.
    Not necessarily better, but different.

  • @grahammiles5695
    @grahammiles5695 Před 6 měsíci

    As you said earlier you’re in an industrial unit and prey to all sorts of fluctuations in power, not just from the grid but you neighbouring businesses too. A dedicated power line would likely be out of the question, and power conditioning may not do the trick. But if I was auditioning and selling expensive gear I’d want some kind of monitoring device on my fuse panel to see if I’m experiencing any voltage anomalies during the day.

  • @realhi-fihelplarry8047
    @realhi-fihelplarry8047 Před 6 měsíci

    I heard from a friend who was so lucky to hear it on a maxed out system that it was overall amazing with a gigantic bass presence and floating voices, but still a tiny bit digital in sound.

  • @Pe1369
    @Pe1369 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Hi Adrian,
    I wonder,what is sound like if you connect it to the Sonus Faber Stradivari Speakers.if you do please let me know how you feel.
    I am thinking to get the Mcintosh MC 901 for my Stradivari one day. Do you think it is a good match?

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Yes the 901 works very well with the Strad

  • @markzurowski3627
    @markzurowski3627 Před 6 měsíci

    I'm always amazed at how audiophiles can hear the differences from "memory". I don't know if I would be able to hear subtle differences between a lot equipment unless I was to A/B compare it with the same recordings. I suppose it is a learned and honed skill. I used to work in the labs at a Molson's brewery and the best people for participating on the taste panels were the guys who, how do I put this...maybe drank a bit too much. They were finely tuned tasting machines.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      lol, I can relate. I love cigars. Maybe too much. I've done blind tastings of my collection and can tell within about 10 mins which I am smoking. That's when you know you are an addict!

    • @markzurowski3627
      @markzurowski3627 Před 6 měsíci

      @@adrianlow2114 I might not be an addicted audiophile, but I'm loving your channel!

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      @@markzurowski3627 thanks!

  • @NosTubes58
    @NosTubes58 Před 6 měsíci

    “ A Senior Moment “, now that’s rich.

  • @adaboy4z
    @adaboy4z Před 6 měsíci

    Ouch, 175K!! It's looks cool as ice though.

  • @77siggen
    @77siggen Před 6 měsíci

    The ultra-highend brand you should have added to your portfolio is Ypsilon, not Gryphon - just a friendly advice from Norway 🙂

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Thanks. Maybe one day I’ll be able to experience it in my own system

  • @NosTubes58
    @NosTubes58 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Adrian, if the music itself isn’t engaging, then it simply isn’t going to get any better……l, it’s time to send it back, no regrets whatsoever.

    • @sean_heisler
      @sean_heisler Před 6 měsíci

      Did you watch the whole video, chief?

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      you didn't see the climax at the end . . . it WAS all good in the end albeit even WITH that kind of cash, I wouldn't give Gryphon all that money :-) WAY too much $ spent on all that complexity. and outward looks that one has to pay extraordinary money for . . . better or comparable can be had for less

  • @lamaludwig1470
    @lamaludwig1470 Před 6 měsíci

    I think Class-A is overrated. At least I wouldn't like to have this monster in my room. - Thanks for the honesty!

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      Thanks

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci

      I have to agree on the monster part :-) . . . when you have to have at LEAST two or more people help you MOVE the thing, things are ALREADY out of control LOL . .
      Class A is fine if well implemented but not necessary when something like the Daniel Hertz Maria comes along (that apparently sounds really VERY fine) that costs a FRACTION of the Gryphon and that a 5 year old can actually carry on his or her own.

  • @vaneast411
    @vaneast411 Před 6 měsíci

    if you can't find the remote you can't turn the pre down? I don't at all like the thought of that

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      You don’t need the remote to adjust the volume. The preamp has a touch screen

  • @CarlVanDoren61
    @CarlVanDoren61 Před 6 měsíci

    Dealer for Coda? 😮
    Motorola bi-polar transistors

  • @gargle99
    @gargle99 Před 6 měsíci +1

    My tomatoes turned rotten at the end of the video

  • @mikeyc7072
    @mikeyc7072 Před 6 měsíci +4

    1st Comment💪

  • @louisperlman8030
    @louisperlman8030 Před 6 měsíci

    Wow, that’s some story. Just curious, are you going to any other Gryphon models in.

  • @BobMetcalf
    @BobMetcalf Před 6 měsíci

    Totally off topic - have you considered any of the Audiovector speakers?

  • @sevestan
    @sevestan Před 6 měsíci

    Reason why there are no buttons is Danes are known for having very small hands and short fingers.

    • @veroman007
      @veroman007 Před 6 měsíci

      You’ve never been to Denmark… I think you are thinking about another appendage

  • @sunnykfc
    @sunnykfc Před 6 měsíci

    Bro you scare the hell out of me i was planning to buy the Apex.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      You should still go listen if you are serious

  • @Coneman3
    @Coneman3 Před 6 měsíci

    Pricing on gear like this is crazy.

  • @mrsyd258
    @mrsyd258 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Its funny 🤣

  • @MohsinWadee
    @MohsinWadee Před 6 měsíci +1

    My initial guess was that you did not have it in Class A bias, I was correct!

  • @imosolar
    @imosolar Před 6 měsíci

    Talk to Jay audio labs about the amplifiers

  • @philippegadegbeku4118
    @philippegadegbeku4118 Před 6 měsíci

    I can't imagine having to wait 40-45 min to play music.

  • @PBlaik
    @PBlaik Před 6 měsíci

    Is it common for amplifiers of that caliber to have to warm up so long before sounding as they are designed to?

    • @helgar791
      @helgar791 Před 6 měsíci +2

      Honestly, most manufacturers of solid state amplifiers will tell you never to turn their products off, because SS transistors, MOSFET's and the like, like to be in warm environments to perform. Even though some amps have standby modes, for some amps that is not enough.

    • @CptRameus
      @CptRameus Před 6 měsíci +2

      It is wise to stay away from dealers that sell gear that they advise warm up times past their return policies 😆

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci +1

      In the case of Gryphon it appears the bias circuit ramps slowly before it reaches the final stage

  • @Skye_the_toller
    @Skye_the_toller Před 6 měsíci +1

    On a ergonomy side… Tesla is the worst system currently on road… always have to look the middle of the car to do something… not your eyes on the road… and vocal commander not as fast and reliable than a nob (when people on the car, noise, etc… )

  • @virgilhilliard382
    @virgilhilliard382 Před 6 měsíci

    Adrian, been watching your videos for about 2 years. Never seen you so "flustered" over a listening experience. Even after adjusting the bias on the Apex and stating that the sound was very good, it still seemed that you had a small amount of uncertainty about the Gryphon combo. Similar to having great excitement and anticipation on a first date, only to have the initial impressions fall extremely short. You seemed emotionally drained by the experience.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      The good news is that it's gotten a lot better since the first impressions. I'll do a follow up with more details

  • @rodericde876
    @rodericde876 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Short story long.

  • @michaela.5363
    @michaela.5363 Před 6 měsíci

    People how can afford this amp don't care about electricity bills

  • @patrickmeylemans9627
    @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci

    Why all that power? Only using a few watts with reasonable sensitive speakers… can someone explain, using the laws of electricity like ohm… no jidajidajida

    • @ERRORFACE1
      @ERRORFACE1 Před 6 měsíci +2

      😂😂😂

    • @patrickmeylemans9627
      @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci

      @@muahaha5929 why if you don’t use it… it seems we are buying numbers instead of gear….

    • @robinr5787
      @robinr5787 Před 6 měsíci

      Imagine driving 170 kph on the German highway. You can do that with a 70 Hp little town car, or with a 400 Hp German limousine. In both cases you drive equally as fast, but the experience is totally different. You probably only use 25% of the power in the limousine, that is one of the reason the ride is smooth and comfortable.

    • @patrickmeylemans9627
      @patrickmeylemans9627 Před 6 měsíci

      ​@@robinr5787not the same here, at a constant speed in the same car there is no difference. The car with 400hp is heavier has beter suspension, seats and is more solent. Same car different engine should behave the same at constant speed.

    • @adrianlow2114
      @adrianlow2114 Před 6 měsíci

      It depends on a few things. One is the sensitivity of the speaker you love. Not everyone likes speakers that are also in the mid 90s sensitivity. Power requirement doubles every 3dB increase. If you enjoy volume peaks over 100dB , the required power goes
      Up very quickly.

  • @curtisbrien692
    @curtisbrien692 Před 5 měsíci

    Promo'SM 💦

  • @aoz823
    @aoz823 Před 6 měsíci

    Totally exuberant””” look at me””” design . Waste of $$$$$

    • @silviosarunic6709
      @silviosarunic6709 Před 2 měsíci

      Gryphon is “ waste of money”???
      Buhahhahahahaha grow up little man

  • @robclendenning2806
    @robclendenning2806 Před 6 měsíci

    IMO utterly ridiculous spending $180k USD on an amplifier. For those doing so have more money than common sense. I get it why people seek them but I think it’s a little sad spending that much on a sound system. And I know there’s lot out there who say if you have it might as well spend it.. but that’s still sad.

    • @AmbientAudioDystopia
      @AmbientAudioDystopia Před 6 měsíci +2

      You should cry about that a little more
      What's on the docket for today? Yelling at the sky in the r/superman#1 forum

    • @robclendenning2806
      @robclendenning2806 Před 6 měsíci

      @@AmbientAudioDystopia
      You’ve clearly lost touch with reality. You’re in the the more I spend the better and happier I will be.. too bad. You break from it eventually

    • @AmbientAudioDystopia
      @AmbientAudioDystopia Před 6 měsíci

      @@robclendenning2806you seem bitter and quite a pathetic hypocrite. Do you not live in this modern world with the rest of us? Do you use currency? Do you not buy and maybe pay more for items that you enjoy more than others? Could be whole milk vs 1%? Doesn't matter if it's 50 cents more or 50 million more, i guarantee you do, so get off your high horse.
      Dullard.

  • @paulpaulzadeh6172
    @paulpaulzadeh6172 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Now it is so cliche again and again , sounds bad and suddenly ohhh it became good , oh man you are talking sh***it

    • @robinr5787
      @robinr5787 Před 6 měsíci +3

      Or, just learn from the man. You have the right to stay away from this channel.

  • @BB69175
    @BB69175 Před 6 měsíci +2

    This man is delusional. Typical audiophile nonsense.

    • @henriksrensen3220
      @henriksrensen3220 Před 6 měsíci +2

      Why?

    • @davidbee8178
      @davidbee8178 Před 6 měsíci +5

      Yes, why? is it because most of us can't afford this? I know I can't . . . but it doesn't make Adrian delusional

    • @veroman007
      @veroman007 Před 6 měsíci +4

      I used to be in that camp many many years ago, but I realized I just didn’t know any better because I hadn’t heard that high-level gear before.

    • @AudiolandCH
      @AudiolandCH Před 6 měsíci

      Its like a gas pedal, you have to find out​@@veroman007

    • @robinr5787
      @robinr5787 Před 6 měsíci

      Again a why? I think Adrian is one of the most honest audiophile on CZcams. I have little experience in this price range, but can often relate to his findings, even in lower systems.