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Benchmark DAC 3B Vs. Schiit Gungnir Multibit and a question.

I currently am using the Schiit Gungnir Multibit DAC.  I’m thinking of switching to the Benchmark DAC 3B.  Does anyone have any experience or opinions with regard to both these products? I already have a Benchmark AHB2 Amplifier and would think the DAC would be a good match.  The description of the Benchmark DAC says it’s designed to work directly with an amplifier.  I’ve been using the Gungnir with a CJ preamp until now. Question is, is there still a benefit to using a good preamp with the Benchmark DAC?
128x128rvpiano
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
piano

suggest you give a week, for me it takes time to really come to a solid conclusion, need multiple listening sessions, some cable or equipment swaps, some break in/settling in

to me the gumby had some nice r2r qualities, more rounded sound, detail was from within, not up front, bass was rounder flowed rather than slammed...

i had pv12 and pv14 back in the day... definitely a honey colored lovely luscious tubey character, will do wonders with sharper dacs of the modern day!
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rvpiano OP
2,513 posts
 
Second day of listening, and it seems to have broken in.
Very accurate but more mellow.  More forgiving on bad CDs than yesterday.
Even dared to compare the same identical  track from an LP to the Benchmark and the results weren’t bad at all.  Of course, the LP was better, but not by much.
gdnrbob
4,422 posts
 
@OP,
Richard, I would definitely let it burn in. In fact, just leave it on.
The folks at Ayre recommended doing the same with the Codex, despite it running pretty warm. They said it doesn't 'hurt' it and helps with sound quality.
B
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rvpiano OP
2,513 posts
 
Bob,

Thanks for the tip.  I left my Gumby always on, but with the blinking lights and on/off switch on the front, I was turning the Benchmark off.

Just as an aside, I’’m learning to stop listening for the “sound” and start listening for the music to appreciate the DAC more.
rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
2,513 posts
 
I seem to blow hot and cold with this DAC.  Some incredible sonic experiences and some very disappointing ones.  Compared to the Gumby it’s far more revealing but not always in a positive way.  I hear what some refer to as thinness.
And yet it’s very full bodied on some CDs. The Gumby is very consistent and forgiving and has a positive sonic aspect as well.
Certainly more time is needed to make a final judgment.

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