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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
 
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?
clio09
3,355 posts
 
Try a non-os DAC like the Audio Mirror or Audio Sector, perhaps a used Audio Note. I think you'll find that these DACs exhibit a much more analog flavor than the Benchmark, which I have heard in my system. I have the Audio Mirror ($500), which I have since had modified by TRL ($550) and if you want to know how it sounds you can read my review on it here. Vlad could give you an extra coaxial input if you needed it.
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,119 posts
 
Fishwater, Bel Canto DAC2 surpassed Benchmark in my system. All Zen cables as well. It sounded smoother, much smoother than the Benchmark and went deeper in bass. Fuller sound overall as well. Needs a good digital cable(don't be cheap there) and a good power cord(Audience powerChord worked wonders on this dac). Never sounded bright with my B&W N803 speakers. Check out my system for components.
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