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DAC Advice - Benchmark DAC 3

Hello Everyone. I am seeking advice. I am rebuilding my audio system after kids and space limitations. I have (being shipped soon) the Benchmark amp AHB2. I currently have old SF Concerto stand mounted bookshelf speakers which I plan to replace. Have not decided on the new speakers yet. I want/need a DAC. I am hard leaning to the Benchmark DAC3.

I need balanced output. I need analog input so I can tie it into my home theater system. I like the idea of a single item with volume control build in and different selectable inputs. I like the idea that it will be very compatible with the amp by the same company. I like benchmark as a company/group - I was able to call the company and speak to someone who was super helpful. I like the size as it fits my space well. I want a neutral DAC (and amp) that does not color the sound. I am not a super audiophile - I just want some solid gear that does not get in the way of the music that will last a long time - my hearing is not perfect nor is my room.

Since this DAC fits with what I need, any reasons that I should not buy this DAC? I just wanted to check with some experts before finally deciding so I don’t mess up. Thank you.

 

12many
yyzsantabarbara
4,987 posts
 

@decooney Interesting observation. It is either preference or lack of synergy with the gear you were using. 

The DAC3B is a little 'hot' on top. I can tell that by listening on my uber revealing SR1a headphone, It is fatiguing on that gear with 2-channel. That is with the LA4 preamp and CODA 07x preamp. No issue with low volume though.

However, put the DAC3B on my tube RAAL VM-1a headphone amp and the sound is magic. The headphone amp is sort of an integrated amp in the sense it has preamp and amp built-in.

 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,443 posts
 

I had DAC 3 HGC. Running it into my amplifier direct did not sound nearly as good as running it into my preamp first (both Pass Labs). I don’t know how it will integrate with other benchmark pieces, I suspect it will be on. However in my experience there is no substitute for a good active linestage.

Yes the analog inputs are a nice feature and overall it’s a very nice DAC. I enjoyed while I had it. 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,031 posts
 

I remember being at a trade show a long time ago and everyone was crowded around the DAC 1.   I think that was the product that really made DAC / Headphone amp combos a huge segment of HiFi

12many OP
288 posts
 

Thanks everyone for your super helpful input.  

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