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Benchmark DAC3 HGC vs Mytek Manhattan

I am considering buying a quality DAC and narrowed my search to either the Benchmark DAC3 HGC or a Mytek Manhattan II (I have access to a demo purchase), clearly these two have significant difference in price.  Read a bunch of reviews of both and seems that they are both good (Stereophile A rating) and are likely similar in their sonic signature.  Has anyone tried both units and any views?  Any individual opinions?  Don't want to spend more than $5K, lower is better.
128x128drghosh
yyzsantabarbara
4,728 posts
 
If it works in your situation do a 30 day home trial of the Benchmark LA4 preamp ($2500) and hook up the Mytek or DAC3B to it. This made my DAC3B sound better than with other preamps and direct to amp. The DAC3B is about $1700 and does not have volume control (which is a great thing in my books).

I will be getting a new Matrix Mini-i 3 Pro ($750) on Thursday for a second system.  I have a feeling connecting it into my HPA4 (same as the LA4) will sound the same as the DAC3B (same as the HGC minus volume).

Everything I put onto the HPA4/LA4 sounds better, DAC, SACD, and tuners. Next up is a "cheap" DAC.
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