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Benchmark Dac1 - next step recommendations please

I've been using the Dac1 for over 6 months with my dvd player as a transport and long term I'm looking at computer->Dac solution.

While I like the Dac1 the next step is not as clear. Have folks used the USB Dac1 connected to their computer or perhaps upgraded to a higher-end Dac with a Squeezebox solution?

I've heard higher end players costing 3-5 times as much so I know you can get better sound. Current system: Dac1 - deHavilland UltraVerve - CJ 2500a

Thanks for the advice.
adasilva
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drubin
3,274 posts
 
If you haven't already, you should look at the website for Empirical Audio, Steve Nugent's company. They mod the DAC1 and also are thought leaders in the PC audio space.
glide3
402 posts
 
I would suggest that you speak with Stephen Balliet at Reflection audio (www.reflectionaudio.com). He does a mod to the Benchmark that retains it's virtues while strenghting other areas...he can also instruct on one (there are others) way to go at computer digital.
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arran
2 posts
 
Go to a USB DAC such as the Benchmark DAC1 USB.
linuxtx
5 posts
 
While my office audio system is hooked up to my computer, I actually listen to music with a squeezebox 3 -> Musical Fidelity X-DACv8 as a source and have been very happy with the results.
adasilva OP
57 posts
 
Just added some DH Labs ceramic cones under the DAC1, the large size. After trying a few other things I'm surprised by the improvement of the DH cones. Following the instructions on their web site yielded the best results with a firmer, better defined base and lower mid range.
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