No balanced outs on the M1clic? Odd Parasound has balanced outputs.No balanced outputs, but do you really need them . they won't truly be balanced unless the unit is balanced internally. I would be willing to bet that the Z-dac is not internally balanced . If it is not then there is no real benefit.
I am returning my M1 clic and getting a NAD M-51. The M1 has a lot of features that i really will never use , like the usb thumb drive (front), the internet radio , and the network steaming capability.
I do not like scrolling through folders to play music, and the internet radio feature is nice , but most stations are mp3(not great quality). It is the same with playing over the network. You are limited to lower bit rates and ,once again folders .
I really want a just DAC . I thought i would give the M1 a try anyway . It is pretty good as a DAC, but not Great. The Bass is weak , but otherwise it has a very balanced sound .
My primary goal is to use a Pc as a Music Server (JRiver Media), because i have about 800 cds to rip . I will rip in .wav format. i COULD Definately hear a difference in the Music Ripped in the lower res formats, such as .ape , which i what JRiver defaults to for rips .
I think the Nad M 51 will be good , at least according to all the reviews .We will see