DAC Dilemma


I will (probably foolishly) put my decision before you all and see if I get any informed opinions, or if I just get scoffed at. I have been at this hobby many years, but must admit to not having the sophistication that many of you do. To those of you that are DAC experts. I have read, and it is my understanding that DAC technology has progressed to the point that 1) new "entry level" DAC’s blow away earlier generation DACs that originally cost much more, and 2) the difference between most current DACs as far as sound quality is pretty subtle. I have an Aurender N100H (which is going to stay) with a PS Audio DirectStream DAC (Not the $6K version. The $3K version with no bridge) feeding into an Audio Research SP16 tubed preamp into a high end solid state amp. Should I 1) just keep what I have (yes, it sounds good, but it could always be better) 2) replace the PS Audio with an Audio Research DAC7 that is about 11 years old but very well reviewed in it’s day, or 3) sell the PS Audio and the Audio Research SP16 and replace both with a Benchmark DAC3 HGC. The Benchmark would give me a current Class A DAC along with multiple inputs for digital, and two inputs for both of my turntables, thus eliminating the need for a separate preamp. But, would the Benchmark SOUND better than either the PS Audio DAC or the DAC7? I am very much aware that the DAC's mentioned above address the actual digital to analogue conversion in very different ways which is precisely why I'm asking which one you think gives the best (natural, uncolored, transparent) sound. Opinions please.
128x128pascon
You guys have been very helpful, and I thank you. If I’d swapped out for the Benchmark and found it to be bright I would have been a very unhappy camper. And the point of ARC being synergistic is a good one, I think. 
@david_ten,

"Agree with the other members who advise against the Benchmark (for your specific case / situation).

Former ARC DAC7 owner. It’s very good; a standout when it was released and offered"

Yep, Agree!! And +1 @jond and @ghdprentice , wise counsel indeed. Current entry level DACs aren’t "blowing away" older generation high quality DACs in terms of sound quality.

If you’re more interested in features/number of inputs/impressive specs on paper that’s a different choice. In terms of sound quality and engaging reproduction of music I’d without hesitation go with the ARC DAC7 (And definitely @jond’s older Audio Note 3 DAC).
Charles
@pascon,
The Benchmark DAC has its admirers as well who find it awesome and believe that it is accurate, neutral and true to the recording  source. They would counter that the ARC DAC 7 and Audionote DACs are simply pleasingly colored. So two different and yet credible perspectives (No surprises there).  As always subjective and personal.
Charles
op

my 2 cents

modern lower cost dacs do not blow away well respected well performing older dacs

good modern dacs indeed sound different... the difference in sound on a high resolution well assembled system is immediate and obvious

good luck on your pursuit, hope you find something you are really happy with