Audiophilepure

https://www.stereophile.com/content/gryphon-audio-designs-diablo-333-integrated-amplifier

I was not ready for how truly excellent the Gryphon Audio Designs Diablo 333 integrated amplifier was going to be—what a fine world-class music maker it is. This is the first amp I have had in-house in some time that makes me question my marriage vows to my reference system. The Diablo 333 can power anything, while producing amazing lifelike dynamics, the blackest blacks, and the brightest colors.

The sheer amount of musical energy conveyed, and the detailed truth of that—you need to hear it for yourself. I could trade four boxes for one, and I am all about downsizing these days. For now, reviewing hardware as I do, I need to keep the flexibility of separate components. Is it as good as separates? Yes—it is. The Gryphon Diablo 333 is guarding its treasures, waiting to reveal them just to you.

The unorthodox system configuration is to use stereo integrated amplifiers in what I like referring to as a faux mono configuration. Unlike the Pathi’s class A/B output which could be summed to mono, both the Billie Amp Mk2 and the PS Audio Stellar Strata Mk2 have class D amplifiers, meaning the two channels cannot be summed. Initially, I thought that precluded use with single wired speakers, but perhaps I could employ only one channel to drive single wired speakers. I have not tried it, but certainly will eventually. But before I do, I will ask about any potential strain/stress to the integrated amp if using only one channel. Better to ask than find out the hard way!

That brings up a point about alternative configurations. Most manufacturers don’t support such configurations, and the assumption is that the audiophile is on their own, meaning no warranty support. It is possible that PS Audio will not support the system configurations I discuss here and warn the user that it would void the warranty. I believe that what I have done in system configurations presents no harm to PS Audio equipment and would hope that the company supports the alternative configuration rather than condemn it. But I will say up front, the results are so good that I will continue to use it regardless of the company’s decision.

https://pt.audio/2025/02/02/hifi-rose-ra280-integrated-amplifier-review/#google_vignette

The HiFi Rose RA280 was an eye-opening piece to have in my home. I appreciated the sonic weight it brought to the table. It made me realize I have some changes to make toward system-wide improvement. HiFi Rose has a nice lineup of components, and I’ve been meaning to streamline my system for some time. One unit that I have my eye on is their RS520 Wireless Network Streamer & Integrated Amplifier. It has many of the same design features and would allow me to remove a device or two from my system. I think this company is making truly great gear, and should be considered by any audiophile looking to upgrade their system.

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1928-peachtree-audio-carina-gan-integrated-amplifier-2

Peachtree Audio’s Carina GaN is a feature-rich integrated amplifier. The ability to integrate a Bluesound Node is a major bonus. Given its high-quality MM phono input, making the Carina GaN the hub of a vinyl playback system is no challenge. Headphone fans will find the Carina GaN a pleasure to listen to, and its high-quality build, attractive styling, and compact form factor should allow it to fit into just about any home or office environment. Peachtree Audio’s Carina GaN integrated amplifier has provided me with a new appreciation for power-DAC audio amplification. The Carina GaN is a peach of an amplifier. Maybe you should give it a taste.

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1928-peachtree-audio-carina-gan-integrated-amplifier-2

The Carina integrated amplifiers all have the same chassis and finish options. They have an attractive oval contour that provides a contemporary yet retro aesthetic. The front face and control knobs are aluminum, the face having a satin finish. The control knobs have a sturdy feel and provide tactile feedback when turned. The standard finish is high-gloss piano-black, but buyers can opt for the premium wood-like Mocha Gloss finish for an additional $100. My review sample had the premium finish, which I found attractive; it avoided any “Family Truckster” tackiness. The front OLED screen on Carina products is very easy to read, with a large font. A mesh top grille facilitates internal cooling but also gives a glimpse at the internals, including more than half a dozen internal diagnostic LEDs (blue, green, and white) that offer a discreet lightshow for those seeking a little extra visual stimulation. In use, the Carina GaN maintained a warm operating temperature, but never crossed over to hot. Overall, I thought the fit and finish of the Carina GaN was very good; this amplifier will provide real pride of ownership.

https://www.stereophile.com/content/gryphon-audio-designs-diablo-333-integrated-amplifier

I was not ready for how truly excellent the Gryphon Audio Designs Diablo 333 integrated amplifier was going to be—what a fine world-class music maker it is. This is the first amp I have had in-house in some time that makes me question my marriage vows to my reference system. The Diablo 333 can power anything, while producing amazing lifelike dynamics, the blackest blacks, and the brightest colors.

The sheer amount of musical energy conveyed, and the detailed truth of that—you need to hear it for yourself. I could trade four boxes for one, and I am all about downsizing these days. For now, reviewing hardware as I do, I need to keep the flexibility of separate components. Is it as good as separates? Yes—it is. The Gryphon Diablo 333 is guarding its treasures, waiting to reveal them just to you.

https://www.hifinews.com/content/rotel-ras-5000

This aspect of its performance is another feather in its cap, as is the integration of HDMI (with CEC control) to make Rotel’s all-in-one an effective TV audio solution as well as a provider of musical delights. Simply switching on my TV woke up the amplifier, with sound arriving so quickly you’ll probably still be scrolling through the list of content on whatever streaming service or broadcast platform you prefer.

Many buyers of the RAS-5000 won’t be using it in this manner, but its abilities meant it delivered music-driven content, such as Sacha Jenkins’ Black & Blues documentary focused on the life of Louis Armstrong [Apple TV, stereo], in a lush, engaging way far superior to that of a flatscreen TV or soundbar. The nightclub ambience in the (sometimes very old) archive video and tape recordings was palpable. So, while Rotel’s RAS-5000 is an accomplished music performer first, it’s certainly eager to please when pressed into other duties.

https://www.stereophile.com/content/air-tight-atm-1-2024-edition-power-amplifier

A tube amp fanboy to my core, I’ve long stalked the aisles at hi-fi expos, eyes peeled for that telltale AirTight gleam. Their exquisite craftsmanship and captivating sonics have, in my mind, elevated them to the status of sonic royalty, their mere presence inspiring reverence.

When he reviewed the ATM-1S a decade ago, Art Dudley concluded that it was “right up there with the best I’ve heard.” I’ll go him one better: The AirTight ATM-1 2024 Edition is the finest amplifier I’ve hosted in my sonic sanctuary.

As the seasons shifted and Greenwich Village’s summer cacophony faded, the ATM-1E delivered sophistication of tone and taut, muscular bass, dynamic punch plus midrange and treble clarity, wrapped in a balanced presentation that was consistently satisfying, spicy, and surprising. Rare delicacy and imaging clarity wove instruments, voices, and ambient sounds into a harmonious whole that left me wanting nothing.