Really wish that Meridian made a stand alone DAC version.
Overall, more detailed than my Bel Canto DAC2+, flatter bass, and more transparent.
Sound is less upfront, though, but I find it best for classical music. The G08 is not as warm as my Bel Canto, so the G08 is quite neutral.
Treble is very smooth.
Synergy, let's talk synergy. Well, let's just say my main two headphones like warm sources. The K1000 likes the G08 better than my R10's. But, I mainly like the K1000's with the G08 for classical music. They are somewhat less "involving" with mid range tones like with female vocals, especially. My R10's have better synergy with a warmer source, so it's not really a great match for the G08 in my system either.
However, the Sennheiser HD650? Oh boy, now that is another story. The HD650's and the G08 are an awesome match. The HD650's nearly unmatched bass quality and accuracy are jaw dropping with the G08. For accurate/powerful bass, oh man, I've never heard timpani drums sound/feel so real from headphones.
And of course there is the build quality. Absolutely top notch. It's a beautiful mix of aluminum and glass top. Very solid, you know you are holding something expensive when you pick it up.
Thanks so much for loaning out the G08 for all of us.
-Ed