Preamplifiers — Gryphon Audio Helios

The Helios is an accomplished preamplifier from Gryphon Audio, built with a distinctive separate power supply chassis. The Helios brings Gryphon's uncompromising Danish engineering to a dual-chassis dedicated line-level signal control format.

Key specs that matter

Three balanced XLR inputs and two single-ended inputs are provided, with two balanced and one single-ended output. Gain is 18dBu. Input impedance is 25,000 ohms balanced or 12,500 ohms single-ended. Output impedance is 8 ohms on both connections. Maximum output level is a substantial 20dBu balanced or 9.5dBu single-ended. Frequency response spans a wide 10Hz to 30,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Total harmonic distortion plus noise is 0.03%. The preamplifier chassis and power-supply chassis each measure 475 x 387 x 173mm, weighing 13.9kg and 18.2kg respectively.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean, transparent signal handling reflecting the substantial 20dBu maximum output level, with the distinctive separate power-supply chassis reflecting Gryphon's uncompromising approach to isolating noise-sensitive circuitry.

Pairing

Gryphon's own power amplifier catalogue offers natural, brand-coherent pairings for a coherently voiced, entirely Gryphon-based system.

Alternatives

Gryphon's own COMMANDER offers a single-chassis alternative within the same broader preamplifier catalogue for buyers preferring a more compact footprint.