Benchmark Media Systems. Right or wrong

I have a LA4 preamp in my system and it is a solid performer, yet I am seeking to replace it as I think it is a little dry. However, to the point, I have been trialing “audiophile” balanced interconnects between my DAC, the LA4, and my amp. I had one set of Benchmark XLR’s and a set of Blue Jeans Belden’s, that I was replacing. I have tried two well known brands so far, both very different, and have one more set on deck. A friend with a very resolving system tried the same cables as I have, and independently, we have the an similar opinion of each set. 

Yes, there is snake oil out there, but not all of it.

There is more snake oil in the audio industry than about any other industry. Why? Because many audiophiles think music is special. When we listen, it engages our emotions and memories. Much of the hearing differences can be attributed to ’the placebo effect’. Research the use of opioids for pain - in blind studies a sugar pill gave as much pain reduction as an opioid pill, if the person believed it to be an opioid. This is what some in the audio industry prey on and use to sell products.

I have no problem with people spending THEIR OWN money. It is theirs, after all. I just use my equipment to enjoy music, whether it be a smart speaker, etc. I just want to enjoy. Too many people spend too much time trying to get it ’perfect’ - there is no such thing.

I say, take a step back, relax, and enjoy!

I have been trialing “audiophile” balanced interconnects between my DAC, the LA4, and my amp. I had one set of Benchmark XLR’s and a set of Blue Jeans Belden’s, that I was replacing.

I use my audiophile XLR’s between my sources and my LA4. However, between my LA4 and amp I use 25-foot Benchmark XLR. When I had my AHB2 the cables did not matter too much. With my CODA #16 amp and Sanders Magtech amp I get the same impression.

There were many manufacturers who came out against MQA, and a few vowed to never incorporate that circuit into their equipment. I don’t remember anyone complaining about them taking a stand on that. In fact many forum members here believed them to be correct? I think manufacturers are free to voice their opinion like anyone else. Often they have a better foundational knowledge and experience to make that opinion.

Benchmark equipment is not sterile, it is neutral, very nicely made and fairly priced. After that you can take it anywhere. Want an analog glow? Add a turntable with a tube phono stage. The difference with good electronics pales in comparison to the difference in speakers. 

On another note, having spoken with them, Benchmark is heavily into digital signal processing. They are currently using a MiniDSP SHD Studio with two of their own DACs and find the combination excellent. This is a Dirac Live platform which I have tested and it is a very effective and simple to use system. It is not as flexible as higher resolution designs, but it is amazingly cost effective. The only problem with the MiniDSP SHD is the DACs are not audiophile quality. Benchmark solved that problem by choosing the Studio version and using their own DACs.