Gryphon Helios Preamplifier

GRYPHON HELIOS PREAMPLIFIER

The Gryphon Helios is a reference two-chassis analogue preamplifier combining a fully balanced dual-mono signal path with the dedicated PSU 5 power supply. Developed as the successor to the long-running Pandora and incorporating technologies derived from Gryphon’s flagship Commander, Helios is designed to serve as the control centre of a reference-level stereo system.

TRUE DUAL-MONO CLASS A ARCHITECTURE

Helios uses fully discrete, balanced dual-differential Class A line-stage circuitry with zero global negative feedback. A super-fast discrete Class A input buffer based around ultra-low-noise dual JFETs feeds a symmetrical current-amplifying Class A stage, while the left and right channels retain separate signal and power-supply paths.

DEDICATED PSU 5 POWER SUPPLY

The matching PSU 5 is housed in its own mechanically isolated chassis and uses two custom 65VA toroidal transformers, one for each channel. Each channel has an 83,000µF capacitor bank, while separate regulated supplies serve the analogue channels and digital control circuitry. Separating the power supply from the audio chassis also reduces interaction between high-current power circuitry and the low-level analogue signal path.

85-STEP RELAY VOLUME CONTROL

Volume is controlled through an 85-step microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator using precision resistors and ultra-low-capacitance relays. Input level matching, channel balance, maximum volume and start-up volume can all be configured from the 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen.

FLEXIBLE BALANCED CONNECTIVITY

Helios provides three balanced XLR and two single-ended RCA source inputs, together with two balanced XLR and one RCA preamplifier outputs. Selected XLR or RCA inputs can be configured as fixed-level AV bypass inputs, while 12V links and Gryphon Green Bias control simplify integration with matching Gryphon power amplifiers.

OPTIONAL DAC3 AND PS3 MODULES

Two rear-panel expansion bays allow Helios to be upgraded with Gryphon’s optional DAC3 digital module and PS3 MM/MC phono module. These can be fitted at purchase or added later, allowing the preamplifier to evolve without replacing the core analogue platform.

DESIGNED AND BUILT IN DENMARK

Both Helios and PSU 5 use CNC-machined aluminium chassis and share identical dimensions for clean side-by-side or stacked installation. The system combines substantial construction with a restrained new Gryphon design language and is supplied with a dedicated aluminium remote control.

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