captkirk
100+ Head-Fier
As someone who is debating between the MMB, BMB, and GMB, these posts are very helpful. One thing I'd like to ask is if people are volume matching between the warmed up GMB and warmed up BMB, and if not, how this changes the landscape? Thanks guys, happy listening.
I'm still working on comparing my Bifrost MB and Gungnir MB. It's been quite fun and so far I'm leaning more and more towards the GMB.
I'm comparing using a Jotunheim and have the BMB and GMB (via XLR) connected and simply switch between the two inputs. I have been volume matching, and it doesn't make for a quick change due the extra gain on the XLR. SE'ed output from the GMB is very good and the differences between the two outputs are negligible (for me) and that's great because I'm going down the path of a SE OTL amp as my next rig.
Sonically, I feel the GMB is superior. I hear a broader, more developed soundstage and improved imaging. I hear less of a difference in tonality, but that's not to say there isn't any. My inexperienced ears may just not be picking it up.
One of the other features the GMB offered that I didn't even consider, but now almost easily secures the "is this worth it" question is that they're are 2 SE outs and the balanced. You mean I don't have to mess around with source switches or y-cables? WIN!!! It makes the DAC way easier to incorporate into my system.