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Next step after Benchmark DAC1

Hello guys! I was really in love with my DAC1 lately but it's time to upgrade but don't know where to.
Is there any of those who loved the first version and upgraded to something new from high-end line up? I love almost everything in DAC1, especially it's PRAT and signature, it's crystal clear and dead quiet. But there is one thing that forced me to sell it — there is a lack of resolution. It totally failed while I've bought my vinyl rig. Some guys told me that higher version PRE or HDR would sound better. Is that so?

The owner of DAC2 told me that it sound completelly different.

Other sources I've owned/listened and didn't liked are:
Lavry DA10
Ps Audio DLIII
VALAB NOS DAC
McIntosh MCD201, MCD500
Antelope

PS. I'm not into analog like sound and whatever it is. I need a quiet and crystal clear sound full of PRAT, that's what I call an egaging DAC.

My rig:
McIntosh MA2275
Klipsch RF-7II
Technics 1210 MKII + Ortofon 2M Black
128x128theppd
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drubin
3,277 posts
 
The new DAC2 HGC is worth a listen. You can get it on 30-day home trial from Benchmark directly or from some of the usual suspects.

Based on my recollection of the DAC1, which I also owned, the new model is definitely higher resolution but retains that quiet background and crystal clarity.
foster_9
1,638 posts
 
Since you like Benchmark, the natural progression from the DAC1 would be to audition the DAC2 HGC, and if it isn't pleasing, as mentioned you can return it. You don't mention a budget, but it will set you back about 1995. I had one and the only reason I don't still have it is that I have a built in DAC now.

Don't let me forget to mention a DAC that is getting great praise now, the Chord QuteHD. If I was in the market for a new DAC, I would have a hard time resisting a try, based on some seasoned fellows at computeraudiophile etc. who have great feedback on this DAC. It's also less than the Banchmark.
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drubin
3,277 posts
 
Yes, the Chord is a must-hear if you don't need the volume control or analog inputs of the Benchmark.
theppd's avatar
theppd OP
18 posts
 
Uh, thanks guys but the downside of the whole story is that I'm in Russia, that means no 30 days trial and no DAC2 available anywhere. One that I possibly can audition is Chord. BTW, why are you directing me towards the Chord, is that sounds like DAC1? Or it is simply a good one? Since there are planty of great DACs but they all sound different.

My budget is near $5k for used device.
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