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What do you replace a Benchmark with for 24/96?

I am contemplating selling my Benchmark DAC 1 because I need a DAC with two coax inputs. My current system is a pair of Monarchy SE-100's, Modwright SWL 9.0, VSA VR4jr's, Onkyo SP 1000 with DH Labs & Acoustic Zen cables. I listen to rock music & prefer a smoother presentation to my music. I must admit the Onkyo sounds very good on it's own if not a touch laid back but the Benchmark beats it on the dynamics. What are some good choices for about $1000.00?
fishwater
fishwater OP
178 posts
 
I wouldn't mind a tube DAC but I really want to stay in the $1,000 or under range. It would be really sweet though if that Monarchy sounded as good as my Modwright, that would be a deal & a half if it did!
plato
1,543 posts
 
Fishwater, I know it may sound unlikely, but I bet the Monarchy does equal the Modwright. It'a a super good and natural sounding piece. It handily beat my TAD-150 Signature and I ended up selling that piece... YMMV

But if you have the chance to try one, definitely go for it.
fishwater OP
178 posts
 
Plato, I would love to try one but I would really prefer a DAC with two coax inputs if possible. I have my transport & DAT deck. I don't know of a super high quality optical cable so I would need dual coax.
plato
1,543 posts
 
Hmmm, I'm not sure if it's possible, but you might want to give Mr. Poon at Monarchy a call and run that by him. He may be able to swap the optical input for second coaxial input. If so, that should work well for you. It would certainly be worth a phone call or an e-mail to find out...
fishwater OP
178 posts
 
Plato, I will give him an e-mail but what other choices are out there for a DAC in $1,000 range used that will sound better than the Benchmark, is there even one to be found in this price range?
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