Gryphon Audio Designs Commander LINE PREAMPLIFIER

Are well-heeled audiophiles ready for a knob-free future? Gryphon Audio Designs thinks so. In contrast to Gryphon's volume knob-dominated Pandora preamplifier, the Danish company's new Commander offers nothing on its bold front panel to grab or turn.

- MICHAEL FREMER

SPECIFICATIONS

Description Stereo line-level preamplifier with remote control and relay-selected resistor arrays for level control. Inputs: 4 pairs balanced (XLR), 2 pairs single-ended (RCA). Outputs: 2 pairs balanced (XLR) plus one pair each single-ended (RCA) Preamp and Tape. Input impedance: 18k ohms balanced, 12k ohms single-ended. Output impedance: 7 ohms. Gain: 18dB. Frequency response: 0.1Hz– 1.5MHz, –3dB. THD+N: 0.003% (balanced output). Total power supply capacity: 2 × 90,000μF. Power consumption: <0.5W (standby), 90W (idle).

Dimensions Audio/control unit: 18.8” (480mm) W × 9.3" (236mm) H × 17.9" (455mm) D. Weight: 67.2lb (30.5kg). Power supply: 18.8" (480mm) W × 9.29" (260mm) H × 17.3" (440mm) D. Weight: 84.2lb (38.2kg).

Finish Black.

Serial number of units reviewed 5600-000 (preamp), 5610-000 (power supply). Designed and manufactured in Denmark.

Price $63,000. Warranty: 3 years parts and labor.

Manufacturer Gryphon Audio Designs ApS, Industrivej 10B, DK 8600 Ry, Denmark. Tel: [phone]. Web: gryphon-audio.com. US distribution: Gryphon Audio N.A. Tel: [phone]. Email: [e-mail].

Instead, there's a large, extra-thick, triangular glass protuberance that extends dramatically below the chassis's vertical dimension. That's where you'll find an "on/off" button, the main unit's only physical switch.