I can't answer for the 909, but anyone who's read my previous posts on this forum knows I have a dislike for dull or boring hifi.
I was put off Quad amps because of a few comments saying they were just that (dull). Reading between the lines I noticed most who said that were using them with a Quad pre amp. I also think they can sound off when in need of a service.
With a passive and a service my 306 is far from boring. It's not small, rough and 2 dimensional like some Naim amps can be. It's big and powerful, with tight bass, clean vocals and smooth highs. Brilliant for rock.