Gryphon Antileon EVO Power Amplifier

Description

Overview

The Antileon EVO is a pure Class A power amplifier from Gryphon, the latest evolution of a design long regarded as one of the marque’s classics. Available in stereo and single-channel (monoblock) configurations, it is a true high-current amplifier built to hold a firm grip on even the most demanding loudspeakers. It sits within Gryphon’s Class A range alongside the flagship Apex.

Design & build

True pure Class A demands heavy transformers, high electrical consumption, substantial heatsinks and expensive parts, and the Antileon EVO is engineered without shortcut. Each chassis weighs 90kg net and measures 57 × 26 × 60 cm, and the stereo model draws up to 2500W at full output. It is a substantial amplifier built for a dedicated system rather than convenience.

Sound & performance

In stereo form the Antileon EVO delivers 160W per channel into 8 ohms, 320W into 4 ohms and 620W into 2 ohms; as monoblocks it delivers 180W into 8 ohms, 360W into 4 ohms and 720W into 2 ohms. Its exceptional peak-to-peak current capability ensures compatibility with even viciously reactive loudspeaker loads, allowing the loudspeaker to perform at its best. THD+N is below 1%, with a bandwidth of 0.3Hz–350kHz.

Key features

The stereo model uses 40 high-current bipolar Toshiba output transistors with a 335,000µF capacitor bank per channel and an output impedance of 0.04 ohms; each monoblock doubles the output devices to 80, with a 670,000µF bank and a 0.02-ohm output impedance. Pure Class A bias means full power is instantaneously available at all times, regardless of the load.

Technology

Gryphon’s design rests on the principle that the ability to deliver high instantaneous current, not headline wattage, determines real-world performance. Heavily regulated, stiff power-supply voltages combined with large current reserves give the control and speed that translate into clarity and resolution. The Antileon EVO forgoes the downsized supplies of lighter designs in favour of the components that genuinely determine an amplifier’s potential.

Specifications

Type: pure Class A power amplifier (stereo or monoblock). Stereo output: 160W/8 ohms, 320W/4 ohms, 620W/2 ohms. Mono output: 180W/8 ohms, 360W/4 ohms, 720W/2 ohms. Output devices: 40 (stereo) / 80 (mono) bipolar Toshiba transistors. Capacitance: 335,000µF per stereo channel / 670,000µF per monoblock. Output impedance: 0.04 ohms (stereo), 0.02 ohms (mono). Bandwidth: 0.3Hz–350kHz. Dimensions: 57 × 26 × 60 cm. Weight: 90kg each. Made in Denmark.

Who it’s for

The Antileon EVO is for the listener building a serious two-channel system around demanding loudspeakers, who wants the authority and refinement of true pure Class A. The stereo chassis suits most systems; the monoblocks offer maximum current and channel separation for the most difficult loads and largest rooms.

What we would pair it with

An Antileon EVO exists to remove the amplifier from the list of things limiting a system, so it belongs in front of loudspeakers good enough to show that. Bowers & Wilkins 801 D4 and 802 D4, Marten, or the larger Sonus Faber Homage and Reference cabinets. Ahead of it, Gryphon Essence, Pandora or Commander — an all-Gryphon chain is voiced as one system and it shows. Read our Gryphon Diablo 333 review for a sense of the house character.

Room and setup notes

This is the part that decides whether an Antileon is practical for you. Each chassis is 90 kg and the stereo model draws up to 2,500 watts at full output, and true Class A means it is dissipating serious heat continuously, not only when playing loudly. It needs open air around it — a closed cabinet is out of the question — and in most installations we specify a dedicated radial mains circuit at first fix. It also heats the room, which in a small space is a genuine consideration and in a large one is neither here nor there. Two people to move each chassis. Plan the rack before the amplifier arrives, not after.

Also worth considering

Within Gryphon’s Class A range, the Essence is the more domestically practical choice and the one we specify more often; the Mephisto and the flagship Apex sit above. If Class A heat and power draw are not workable in your room, McIntosh MC611 monoblocs or Mola Mola Perca deliver very high performance while running cool. See all our power amplifiers.

Why buy from Hidden Home Technology

An amplifier of this class rewards careful matching to the loudspeaker and room, and its heat and mass call for proper siting. We can advise on partnering equipment, arrange a demonstration, and handle delivery and setup across the South. Speak to our team to arrange a listen or to specify stereo or monoblocks.