Small DAC With Balanced Outs

Hmm, I am guessing that you wouldn't only be using USB output, but if you are, check out the HRT Streamer Pro. It uses mini-XLR plugs so you'd need adaptors or cables with mini-XLR on one end.

Also on the small end of things would be DACs intended for portable headphone use. The iBasso Boomslang is a balanced DAC that has just come out. HeadFi might be a good place to look into balanced portable DAC options.

Or maybe these are too small for you. As for other, larger but still compact options, the first thing that comes to mind is the Weiss DAC2/Minerva. A very well reviewed unit, particularly for computer audio.

An ideal price range would also help with these recommendations, as what I have mentioned here range from $219-$3000 in price when new.

Hi Roscoeiii... i am running a computer music server, but do not need to use USB - i can output optical, coax, firewire, or USB.

budget is around $1k. thanks for the small options - i was not aware of those two but will certainly look into them. i've owned the minerva in the past - looking to go smaller.

-Scott

"i know the benchmark DAC1 when left on all the time will put itself into standby mode when no signal is detected"

Benchmark DAC1 USB does that - not Benchmark DAC1.