Some of the features and the inputs/outputs of the m920 are not only beneficial to pro users. BTW, it's not BNC, it's a standard RCA S/PDIF connection. Yes, there is some bias in that post. As for the actual chips used, I doubt the difference would be so easily heard all other things being...

What features exactly are you referring to? I've never used Oppo but I'm sure the m920 has some features Oppo are missing, not to mention the excellent build and sound quality of the m920 - a professional unit. $1100 seem like a steal, even now when the dac is getting a bit long in the tooth...

This thread seems dead a little too early. Did you know that Grace plan on adding DSD256 to the m920? Said 'No current timeline on that yet...' on 2 May. After the m9xx/900 and m905 got firmware updates, why not for the wonderful m920 too.

Hmm..I wouldn't call the m920 bass heavy. And I've got plenty enough 'brightness', especially with my SR325is. The m920 just reveals what's in the record anyway. So, what's the end-game then?

Another fan of the m920 indisputable qualities?

My pleasure. 

No, I don't think it does. I believe every function accessible through the Grace remote is covered by the Apple remote. You may want to check the m920 manual for details.

Yes, you're right, Tobes. This makes sense. There are pics of JRD gear on the Internet with almost identical remotes.The choice is really nice,  AFAIK Apple remotes can't be used with the m903.

Yeah, you're mostly right. The remote is inherited from the older models albeit slightly modified. I'd like to have it as an option, as a pair with the m920, though I'm still thinking what real advantage this might bring. The Apple remote really works but I still wonder why the original remote...

A bit pricey though? I'm using the Just Mobile. Not too expensive, does the job and complements the Grace as well. However, the Grado SR325is are a bit heavy and it pushes against the not-so-padded headband.    BTW, have you thought of buying the m920 remote?

Nice shots, Sybil  What kind of camera are you using? And a really nice stand with adjustable height. 

  Yikes, I thought you guys were really kidding! It never even crossed my mind to do so. I tried my best to be really prepared before the purchase, read all about it, was very particular about every single detail and accessory too...

Dead on!

I second some of Tobes's observations. I have none of those Senns, with my Grado SR 325is the pairing is good although these cans are known to be on the bright side and, I guess, not very neutral. But it's fun. I think Tobes may be right that the m920 is a bit forgiving but without sacrificing...

Sybil, no offence meant. Just tried to be helpful.    'And if we're honest here there isn't really much else to find online about the Grace Design M920.' - true and I'm not sure why but then again the m920 is not a mass market product.   'When I embarked on this journey my only three...

  'Crap'?! Why would you buy expensive 'crap' anyway? Have you done your 'homework' prior to purchasing? I haven't used my m920 in fixed DAC output mode, nor the headphone amplifier separately. But I can assure you neither can be described as 'crap'. The DAC implementation is excellent and...

Agree. All I meant was that one should know his dac/headamp specifics. I had read all about the m920 long before I actually bought it. I think I know it well now.

I beg your pardon, but this seems like an unnecessary discussion. If you want a balanced headphone amplifier then buy one with such capability. Besides, according to Benchmark and, obviously, Grace, that's not inherently better. Why don't we focus on discussing does the m920 excel in what is...

Thanks, Tobes! Will check. I've yet to optimise my speakers placement.

And all this is about the stock filter settings. Whether hardware or software upsampling (to the max supported resolutions) is beneficial to the sound quality is up to everyone to decide. Some swear by upsampling and claim it gives more faithful reproduction, some swear by nos dacs. Some dacs...

Yes, it's not easy for me too. Even if someone has sufficiently good hearing and resolving equipment I doubt the differences are striking. BTW, I also prefer the 'S' filter from the beginning although I find the differences subtle at best. I've thought whether this is a placebo because I'd...

  Thanks, Tobes. I'll try them. Downloaded HQP and looking at the UI again with rather mixed feelings. But what about if someone is not so into this upsampling and filtering stuff? Is there any real advantage then compared to other players? BTW, using these software settings, your m920 hardware...

Unfortunately not. I use neither. Sticking with Audirvana which is getting better, although I've tried HQP. Is there a way the sound benefits of HQP (if we assume it's better than A+) be paired with convenient library management but not necessarily subscription services?  

HQPlayer is well known in the community. How do you manage your library though?

For all interested - there's a new firmware version (1.4) which fixes a bug with exclusive output mode (the setting is now maintained through power cycle).   http://www.gracedesign.com/products/m920/m920.htm