DAC Dilemma


I will (probably foolishly) put my decision before you all and see if I get any informed opinions, or if I just get scoffed at. I have been at this hobby many years, but must admit to not having the sophistication that many of you do. To those of you that are DAC experts. I have read, and it is my understanding that DAC technology has progressed to the point that 1) new "entry level" DAC’s blow away earlier generation DACs that originally cost much more, and 2) the difference between most current DACs as far as sound quality is pretty subtle. I have an Aurender N100H (which is going to stay) with a PS Audio DirectStream DAC (Not the $6K version. The $3K version with no bridge) feeding into an Audio Research SP16 tubed preamp into a high end solid state amp. Should I 1) just keep what I have (yes, it sounds good, but it could always be better) 2) replace the PS Audio with an Audio Research DAC7 that is about 11 years old but very well reviewed in it’s day, or 3) sell the PS Audio and the Audio Research SP16 and replace both with a Benchmark DAC3 HGC. The Benchmark would give me a current Class A DAC along with multiple inputs for digital, and two inputs for both of my turntables, thus eliminating the need for a separate preamp. But, would the Benchmark SOUND better than either the PS Audio DAC or the DAC7? I am very much aware that the DAC's mentioned above address the actual digital to analogue conversion in very different ways which is precisely why I'm asking which one you think gives the best (natural, uncolored, transparent) sound. Opinions please.
128x128pascon
I think you ask very good questions. I have swapped a number of streamers, DACs, well everything actually over the last decade… a couple times… along with extensive research.

First, no, entry level DACs will not blow away older high end DACs. Obviously there is a certain amount of, “it depends” in there. But I would unhesitatingly buy the Audio Research DAC 7. My personal opinion is Benchmark will imprint a detailed, analytical imprint on your system that will rob it of much of its musicality.


Aurender, Audio Research SP16.. excellent components.. definitely get the ARC DAC7. The ARC stuff is very synergistic (click on my user I’d to see my system) the DAC7 will be exceptionally musical… no comparison with Benchmark. I use a ARC CD9se as my DAC and brought home a Berkeley Alpha 3 DAC ($22K) and compared with my ARC… the difference was miniscule, but the ARC sounded better and at an initial cost of $5K less..


I think the ARC DAC 7 would put you on a course for a really amazing system. Years from now you can upgrade any of the components and you are in a perfect synergistic situation to go up the Aurender and ARC ladder. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate I slowly moved into the all ARC component route.. it has led to an incredible, detailed and musical system. The synergy is amazing.
Agree with the other members who advise against the Benchmark (for your specific case / situation).

Former ARC DAC7 owner. It's very good; a standout when it was released and offered.

Do you have a budget you can share?
You guys have been very helpful, and I thank you. If I’d swapped out for the Benchmark and found it to be bright I would have been a very unhappy camper. And the point of ARC being synergistic is a good one, I think. 
@david_ten,

"Agree with the other members who advise against the Benchmark (for your specific case / situation).

Former ARC DAC7 owner. It’s very good; a standout when it was released and offered"

Yep, Agree!! And +1 @jond and @ghdprentice , wise counsel indeed. Current entry level DACs aren’t "blowing away" older generation high quality DACs in terms of sound quality.

If you’re more interested in features/number of inputs/impressive specs on paper that’s a different choice. In terms of sound quality and engaging reproduction of music I’d without hesitation go with the ARC DAC7 (And definitely @jond’s older Audio Note 3 DAC).
Charles
@pascon,
The Benchmark DAC has its admirers as well who find it awesome and believe that it is accurate, neutral and true to the recording  source. They would counter that the ARC DAC 7 and Audionote DACs are simply pleasingly colored. So two different and yet credible perspectives (No surprises there).  As always subjective and personal.
Charles