Isn’t this just a professional/studio grade DAC/headphone amp? If so, what really sets it apart? I mean, it's more expensive and there’s no added functionality. Would this really be in any way better than, say, the Benchmark DAC1? I mean, talk about marginal increase in value… Yeah, the following example only has a USB input, but I would argue that it's highly unlikely this thing would even be in any significant way better than the ODAC + Objective2 amp combination. Functionally, this actually does less as it doesn't offer an analog line-level output to possibly pair with another amp.
I'm interested in this product, so I'd be happy to be proven wrong (though perhaps not so happy dropping this much money for such a basic component), whether through objective points or subjective arguments.
I'm not sure the older DAC1 is 'vastly' superior even from a measurements point of view. But even if it is on paper (I too respect Benchmark), that doesn't tell the whole story. Grace consider both measurements and musicality (not to be mistaken with touching the neutrality) of their products.
OK, you may be right, I won't argue. But, as I said, this doesn't tell the whole picture. At Computer Audiophile Michael Grace explains what he feels are the advantages of the m920 design to DAC2 HGC. Just take a look. DAC1 is even older but I'm sure it's excellent too.
Yeah, those are some pretty insane values for the Benchmark. I never even realized it was that good. In comparison (again, for the intent of what expensive units like this are intended for), the Grace Design kind of seems average.
Typhoon859Since this is cancelled I may just get a Lynx Hilo.... It owns.... Anybody want a Phonitor II... Im selling one... It sounds way better than this.... I just dislike dealing with SPL and just got my unit back. I can sell it for 1400... Headphone amp wise it owns.
Typhoon859However, the reputation of the company is hardly average and you don't get this by accident. Many respected professionals use their equipment. 'Today, in addition to Steinway and Sons, Grace Design’s user list includes the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Metropolitan Opera.', to name a few.
DJ15I never said that. Stop making straw men out of my statements. I've stated on several occasions that I really like the company and their products and otherwise never commented on their reputation.
DJ15Agreed. Never meant to imply that the product was average. Was just saying that the specifications were more typical and not as ridiculous as the Benchmark.
I'm interested in this product, so I'd be happy to be proven wrong (though perhaps not so happy dropping this much money for such a basic component), whether through objective points or subjective arguments.