Chord Qutest vs. Benchmark 2 or 3?

It's funny, whenever I read comments about a DAC sounding "warmer" the comments seems to align with DACs that measured higher in distortion.  Some distortion as we know tends to be more pleasing to our ears than others. The Benchmark is probably more transparent than the Qutest but how either sounds in your system is likely both system dependent and a matter of preference.  I have recently ordered a Benchmark DAC3 for my 2nd system (tube integrated amp).  My reasoning is that the tubes likely deliver all the warmth I need and that a transparent DAC in the chain may provide the perfect synergy.

Cheaper than your other 2 options but the Jolida Tube Dac 3 is really a nice dac even compared to pricier models IMO. Musical and slightly warm but detailed as well. I also have the Node 2 and the Jolida is head and tails better than the Dac in the node IMO.  

Can't speak to the Benchmark.

Picked up a Chord Qutest in March and I love it.
I especially appreciate its very small form factor.
It replaced a Bryston BDA-1 in my main rig (now in use in a second system).
I also have a Bluesound Node 2i, and think that there is excellent synergy between the Node 2i and the Qutest.  Have hooked up by both Toslink and Coax and in my case prefer the Toslink (Audioquest Vodka). Interestingly enough, with the BDA-1 preferred the Coax (Tributaries).
Also have used the Qutest very successfully as a USB DAC first with a Melco N1A, and more recently hooked directly into a Roon Nucleus.
In both instances via Curious USB Cable.

Benchmark and Chord both have excellent reputations.
Like others have said, I don't think you can go too wrong here.
Good luck with whatever you decide.


 

Try the Qutest with an external linear power supply and it takes it to another level.