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Seller's Description

Gryphon Sonata Preamplifier - Consignment

Condition: Used. Good, scratches and chips to chassis tops. Red "Gryphon" logo backlight on preamp chassis not working, does not affect operation (See photos)

Includes: Remote, Umbilical Cable and Power Cable (No box)

SN: 8888007

Made in Denmark

Includes 7 day warranty

Overview

Fully balanced, pure class-a, fully discrete circuit with zero negative feedback and ultrawide frequency bandwidth. Designed as a no-compromise line-level preamplifier, Sonata has the distinction of being Gryphon's first remote controlled preamp. 

With output limiting, memory-stored default volume levels and channel balancing for each input.

Infinite channel separation and no interchannel crosstalk, thanks to the strict dual mono configuration, filtered outboard power supplies for each channel and separate custom-built C-core transformers.

Unused inputs are isolated, thanks to gold-plated input selector relays that break the
ground connection of components not in use.

Even the display is physically isolated outside the preamplifier chassis.

Full remote control operation
Dual mono configuration
Motor-driven passive resistor volume control
Fully discrete circuitry
Select premium-grade components
Low inductance, German Resista resistors
Short signal path with minimal internal wiring
Gold-plated input isolating relays
Inputs and outputs with PCB-mounted gold-plated Swiss Neutric XLR and WBТ phono sockets
37,000 microfarad capacity Ultra-wideband 4 MHz frequency response
Zero negative feedback
Pure Class A operation
Green Bias
Custom-built C-core transformers
Low output impedance for long cable runs
DC-coupling with servo-control
Dual mono external regulated power supplies
11-stage voltage regulation per channel
AC mains filtering Fully sealed double-sided Milspec PC boards
75 µm copper fraces
Modular mainframe design
Non-resonant, non-magnetic aluminum chassis
Mechanical grounding
Separate, isolated power supply for all non-audio circuits
Designed and hand-crafted in Denmark

Specification

Inputs: 3x balanced XLR, 1x single-ended RCA, 1x Tape In|
Outputs: 2x balanced XLR (for bi-amping/multi-room), 1x Tape Out

AUDIO CONNECTION QUALITY GUARANTEE 

✔️ Seven day warranty on Consignment*

✔️Passed our checks for functionality 

✔️A full inspection noting for any defects

✔️A full completeness check for all included parts and accessories

Our Thoughts RADAR AI

Should you really be asking yourself why a Gryphon Sonata Preamplifier is listed for A$7,400 when the median used price is A$12,539? This asking price sits below the 25th percentile of A$7,623, making it a clear bargain and a strong deal in the current AUD market for this model.

The Gryphon Sonata is widely revered as one of the world’s best solid-state preamps, capable of rivaling valve designs with exceptional transparency and dynamic range. Its premium gold-plated Neutric XLR connectors and WBT outputs ensure top-tier signal integrity, while its pairing with flagship amps like the Antileon Signature is legendary. At this price, especially in consignment condition, it represents a rare buying opportunity for a fellow enthusiast seeking elite performance without paying the A$45,000 new retail.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About Gryphon

Gryphon Audio Designs emerged from Denmark in 1985, founded by Flemming E. Rasmussen as a passionate offshoot of his distribution company, 2R Marketing. What began as a spare-time project—a compact, dual-mono phono preamplifier known as the Gryphon Head Amp—quickly gained acclaim after debuting at the 1986 Chicago Consumer Electronics Show. Japanese distributors snapped it up, and the audio press hailed it as a "Best Buy," propelling Rasmussen to establish Gryphon as a dedicated entity by the early 1990s, free from import distractions. The brand's name draws from the mythical gryphon, symbolizing the fusion of lion-like power and eagle-like grace in music reproduction.

Gryphon specializes in uncompromising high-end electronics, starting with its legendary class-A phono stages and evolving into high-power amplifiers, preamplifiers, and integrated systems. The company expanded into full-system solutions with the 2002 Cantata stand-mount speakers, followed by flagship models like the massive Poseidon in 2004. Today, its portfolio encompasses speakers, the groundbreaking Apollo turntable—a collaboration with Helmut Brinkmann and Ortofon—and even cables, ensuring every link in the audio chain aligns with Gryphon's neutral, optimized design philosophy.

Positioned firmly at the pinnacle of high-end audio, Gryphon commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its visionary engineering and sonic purity, often setting benchmarks since its inception as one of Europe's earliest true high-end pioneers. Rasmussen's team-driven approach yields products that prioritize musical essence over compromise, attracting buyers who demand reference-level performance in home systems.

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