The heart of the m920 is the latest generation M series Sabre DAC. The Sabre is a 32-bit converter that takes DAC performance to an entirely new level. 24-bit, 192 kHz inputs are provided on AES3, S/PDIF, TOSLINK, and asynchronous USB. The m920 includes DSD-64 and DSD-128 functionality via USB, DSD-64 through the AES3 or S/PDIF inputs, and 352.8 kHz and 384 kHz PCM (DXD) playback over USB.

User selectable DAC filter response is available for both PCM and DSD playback. Grace has improved the performance of its s-Lock PLL for increased jitter rejection, and the ability to disable this if not needed for a particular application. A new cross-feed circuit has been developed for improved headphone imaging, and low frequency response has been improved on the balanced and unbalanced line outputs. The m920's audio circuitry and power supply is housed in an elegant 1U, half-rack enclosure. The front panel includes a pair of 1/4" TRS headphone outputs, and an LED display for headphone and line level output levels. Level control, adjustable in .5 dB increments, is accessed via a multi-purpose rotary encoder/switch, that also serves as an output selector, and a setup menu navigation tool for selecting and adjusting m920 operating modes and parameters.

For users who would like to use the m920 as a dedicated DAC, a mode is available that allows the level control encoder to be bypassed, which feeds the unbalanced line level outputs. A second rotary switch provides input selection. A full compliment of LED's are provided for clear visual indication of outputs currently selected, and other system states such as sample rate, s-Lock, DSD, and cross-feed.

The rear panel provides access to a pair of balanced analog inputs on XLR's, and unbalanced analog inputs on RCA jacks. Balanced line out's are on 1/4" TRS jacks and unbalanced line outputs are available on RCA's. Digital inputs to the m920 include AES3, S/PDIF, TOSLINK, and a Class 2 asynchronous USB port.

Commenting on the release of the new m920, VP of Sales and Marketing, Doug Wood notes "The m920 is the result of feedback we've had from m903 users for a product that retained a similar look and feel, ease of use and long-term reliability, with the addition of high sample rate DSD and DXD functionality. Our engineering group left no stone unturned, and has produced a truly stunning piece of audio gear that we think our customers will fall in love with. We can't wait for folks to get their hands on the new m920."