Yeah, best part of M300 is its form factor. Perfect size and weight. Reminds me of small Sony Walkman or iPod. If only it had 4.4mm balanced output, it'll be perfect.

I have the B2 Dusk and that IEM requires a fair bit of power for it to sound its best. I run them balanced. If you use DSP cable that bypasses the internal DAC/AMP of the M300 I believe. You might be ok with that but I'd still recommend something with a little more power to drive them with...

Still no leather case for this DAP? All I see are clear TPU cases...

I didn't make up the marketing material for them and have no affiliation. 🤷🏻‍♂️ Just offering an alternative option in case someone doesn't want to pay full price for 100% pure silver cable...I can only attest that it sounds as described. Transparent and organic.

Looks like the shielding is SPC but the internal wire is "pure" silver. I use the same cable for HD8XX, it sounds great on those too. 👍

Sure, I posted this in HE1000 thread. https://www.head-fi.org/threads/hifiman-he1000-planar-dynamic-headphone.748334/post-17297342 Just gotta be careful handling it. It's not as thick and robust as other cables but sounds great.

I used pure silver for both HEKV2 and HEKSE. It is the most transparent and not harsh at all. Very clean sounding. You don't even have to spend that much. I found mine on AliExpress for $30.

Apple music offers 1 month free trial I believe when you sign up for new account.

Not necessary anymore. I am returning the old unit.

I purchased another M300 while I was waiting for a solution... The newer M300 has older firmware installed version 1.20_20231212-1639 and I can confirm it sounds just as good as my old one prior to the latest firmware update. The punchy and engaging feeling (soul) to the music is back. So this...

Nope didn't try the rootlessjamesdsp. I was pretty happy with the sound prior to the update. Didn't feel the need to mess with it.

No modifications. Just Apple Music streaming Hi-Res/lossless.

Latest firmware update 1.30_20240126-1851 seem to have ruined the sound for me. :triportsad: Listening through streaming app like Apple Music it now sounds sharp "digital", cold and lifeless. And lost all dynamic range. No longer sounds engaging, musical, smooth, and warm that I used to enjoy...

Craig was a pleasure to deal with! He knew what he wanted and made for easy transaction. Payment was prompt as well. Couldn't ask for a better person to deal with, great all around dude. Wouldn't hesitate to deal with again, highly recommended!

If you're looking for planar I've heard great things about CFA Supermoon and Oriolus Szalayi. Both will be technically closer to the HEKS but maybe out of your budget. An oldie but a goodie is the 7hz Timeless. Popular planar that went for $200 and within your budget but just ok technicalities...