Gryphon Essence Pre Amplifier

Description

Overview

The Essence is a two-channel line preamplifier from Gryphon Audio Designs, the Danish high-end manufacturer known for uncompromising Class A engineering. This preamplifier is built on a minimalist philosophy: a fully discrete, DC-coupled Class A circuit in a true dual-mono layout, with everything superfluous to the signal removed in the pursuit of purity.

Design & build

Designed and built in Denmark, the Essence follows Gryphon’s restrained, monolithic industrial style. The chassis measures 47 × 16.5 × 38.5cm and weighs 13.4kg, and the two channels are kept strictly separate to minimise internal wiring and crosstalk. Connections use gold-plated Neutrik XLR sockets and gold-plated, Teflon-insulated RCA phono sockets throughout.

Sound & performance

The Essence runs in pure Class A with zero global negative feedback, a combination Gryphon favours for its naturalness and freedom from the artefacts feedback can introduce. Gain is a modest +18dB into a wide bandwidth of 0.1Hz to 1MHz, with distortion below 0.005% and a maximum balanced output of 23Vrms — the hallmarks of a design intended to pass the signal on unaltered.

Key features

Volume is set by a microprocessor-controlled, 43-step, fully balanced relay attenuator using a minimal contingent of ultra-precision resistors, so no conventional volume potentiometer sits in the signal path. Five source inputs are provided — two balanced XLR and three single-ended RCA — with two balanced and one single-ended main output, plus a tape output. There is deliberately no tone control, balance control or headphone stage.

Technology

The Essence can be extended without compromising its purist core. An optional Gryphon PS2 moving-magnet/moving-coil phono module and an optional PCM/DSD DAC module (with USB, coaxial, AES and optical inputs) can be fitted. For owners of a compatible Gryphon Class A power amplifier, the Green Bias control link automatically regulates the power amplifier’s Class A bias from the preamplifier.

Specifications

Type: dual-mono Class A line preamplifier. Feedback: zero global negative feedback. Volume: 43-step balanced relay attenuator. Inputs: 4 balanced XLR, 3 single-ended RCA. Outputs: 2 balanced XLR, 1 single-ended RCA, 1 tape. Gain: +18dB. Bandwidth: 0.1Hz–1MHz (-3dB). THD+N: <0.005%. Optional: PS2 MM/MC phono, PCM/DSD DAC module. Dimensions: 47 × 16.5 × 38.5cm. Weight: 13.4kg. Built in Denmark.

Who it’s for

The Essence suits the two-channel listener who values transparency above features and wants a preamplifier that imposes as little as possible on the signal — particularly one pairing it with a Gryphon Class A power amplifier to exploit the Green Bias link. The optional modules let it serve as a system hub without diluting that purist intent.

Why buy from Hidden Home Technology

A preamplifier of this calibre rewards careful matching to the power amplifier, source and loudspeakers. We can demonstrate the Essence, advise on partnering Gryphon electronics and arrange delivery and installation across the South. Speak to our team to arrange a listen or to specify your configuration.