Gryphon Audio’s Diablo 333 Amplifier Wins Prestigious Award

The Gryphon Audio Diablo 333 has been awarded the prestigious Temptation Award by What Hi-Fi? for 2025, a testament to its exceptional performance in the high-end audio market. Priced at £24,500 / $24,900 / AU$39,995, this integrated stereo amplifier stands out not only for its price but also for its impressive specifications, making it a leading choice among audiophiles.

Weighing approximately 50 kg, the Diablo 333 is robust yet manageable by industry standards. Its power output of 333 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load positions it among the most powerful domestic amplifiers tested by What Hi-Fi? in nearly five decades. Additionally, its power capacity doubles to an astounding 1100 watts per channel at 2 ohms, suggesting that this amplifier can easily handle demanding volume levels in residential settings.

Exceptional Design and Build Quality

The aesthetic of the Gryphon Diablo 333 may divide opinions, but the craftsmanship is universally acknowledged. Every component features precise machining, with panels aligning perfectly, showcasing the high standards of build quality synonymous with Gryphon Audio. The amplifier employs a dual mono configuration, emphasizing wide bandwidth and zero global feedback, which has been a hallmark of the brand’s design philosophy.

In terms of features, the Diablo 333 adheres to the minimalist approach typical for high-end integrated amplifiers. It offers four inputs, including two balanced XLRs, alongside both fixed and variable line-level outputs. For those seeking additional functionality, optional modules are available, including the PS3 phono stage priced at £4,950 / $5,600 / AU$9,995 and the DAC3 digital-to-analogue converter at £6,950 / $7,000 / AU$11,995.

Sonic Performance Beyond Compare

The Diablo 333’s remarkable power output is central to its audio performance. During testing with bass-heavy tracks from artists like Massive Attack and Nitin Sawhney, the amplifier displayed an effortless ability to deliver grounded and punchy low frequencies. It demonstrated exceptional control during dynamic musical passages, with Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring revealing its ability to handle intense crescendos with authority and clarity.

Listeners can expect a physically engaging sound, characterized by a remarkably quiet background and expansive soundstage. The Diablo 333 not only excels in delivering high volume levels but also maintains a delicate touch, enabling it to present quieter passages with finesse. This combination of power and nuance makes the amplifier a rare find in the audio market, showcasing both strength and agility.

In a competitive field of integrated amplifiers, the Gryphon Audio Diablo 333 has distinguished itself as a top performer. Its blend of high output, impeccable design, and exceptional sound quality makes it a deserving winner of the What Hi-Fi? Temptation Award for 2025, solidifying its position as a leading choice for audiophiles around the world.