1: RE: Some positive comments on the DA10 (7.36)
Posted by benie on 2008-10-20, 17:32:59 (75.156.9.128)
Has anyone compared the NEW USB Benchmark to the Lavry? The new Op-amps and chips in the new Benchmark are said to up the level. One user went from a Lavry to the New Benchmark. My Benchmark is from .......

2: In any event (7.36)
Posted by farfetched on 2011-02-05, 13:00:01 (99.102.193.46)
As you can see from the posts below, it is at least clear about the Benchmark dac. I have never heard it, but the Benchmark has to be one of the most overrated dacs on the market. A friend of mine, wh .......

3: Re: Modding Benchmark DAC1? (7.36)
Posted by ampgalore@yahoo.com on 2004-12-13, 18:45:47 (152.3.83.78)
I am really skeptical about that Benchmark mod thread on audiocircle. In that thread, that person compared the Benchmark to a modded Ack Dack. I have heard both the Benchmark and the Ack Dack. In my o .......

4: Re: Bel Canto, Benchmark or ? (7.16)
Posted by SLL on 2005-12-14, 08:56:47 (170.97.167.62)
I have the Benchmark with the Cobalt 816 (also not "S"), and an Audio Refinement integrated. I love the combination. I was considering the Bel Canto, but, without having heard it, went with the Benchm .......

5: Re: DAC for Bryston: Apogee MiniDac, Benchmark or Bryston? (6.98)
Posted by ramallo on 2007-01-17, 03:22:32 (80.32.156.111)
I have the Apogee and the Benchmark, I prefer the Benchmark. Why?= the Benchmark have better bass, and a less euphonic in the upper mids than the Apogee. Cheers .......

6: Re: DAC for Bryston: Apogee MiniDac, Benchmark or Bryston? (6.93)
Posted by charlieboy11 on 2007-01-22, 04:17:26 (195.229.241.187)
Hi I have a Bryston 8B ST and a Benchmark DAC1. I must say the Benchmark complements the Bryston - sound is wonderfully detailed. Plus, the Benchmark allowed me to do away with the pre-amp. Good Luck! .......

7: Benchmark DAC1 vs ? (6.89)
Posted by subhuman on 2003-06-03, 09:21:31 (207.189.147.141)
What other DACs have you heard that the Benchmark bettered? I'm trying to get a feeling for the flavor of the Benchmark and how it compares to other units. Thanks. .......

8: RE: Benchmark DAC2 HGC - First review of Benchmark's new dac (6.81)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2012-10-27, 02:23:55 (72.208.173.79)
The new Prism Lyra 1 DAC costs only $200 more than the new Benchmark..... If the Lyra 1 has a sonic semblance to the DA-2, it would likely upstage the new Benchmark product. I'd suggest anyone who is .......

9: You listed the reasons I prefer the Benchmark... (6.69)
Posted by Ned on 2005-06-20, 06:00:44 (65.173.228.39)
I personally prefer the Benchmark for the exactly the reasons you list for preferring the Ack Dac. And, I found the Benchmark to be substantially more detailed, transparent and dynamic. I also found t .......

10: Re: Be careful - e.g. Benchmark (6.57)
Posted by TA on 2004-07-15, 22:41:21 (24.215.253.156)
benchmark makes pro gear, and the preference for pro users may lean towards what you're attributing to the benchmark by users. on benchmark's website many of the reviews featured come from professiona .......

11: RE: Trading Benchmark DAC-1 for CAL Alpha? discuss (6.56)
Posted by chesebert on 2009-04-07, 20:29:19 (24.145.223.116)
I didn't think Benchmark had much over Alpha in terms of bass definition and high end extensions. Alpha had a little softer attack than Benchmark and that's about all the difference I could hear (subj .......

12: Why should I buy a Benchmark DAC1? (6.55)
Posted by arildji on 2005-03-11, 09:10:37 (143.97.2.35)
I already own an Electrocompaiet ECD-1 D/A-converter, and I am considering buying a Benchmark DAC1. But I am very much I doubt whether it is worth it or not: Can in expect a better performance from th .......

13: Since you also have a Benchmark Dac1, it would be interesting to hear your comments on that v. the others (6.54)
Posted by Ned on 2012-06-28, 19:25:43 (108.54.118.139)
I know your Benchmark has been modified, but it's also one of the older models. Still, since you have three quality dacs and have just compared two in your post, is it possible for you now to add the .......

14: Disagree (6.54)
Posted by mose on 2007-10-31, 16:47:43 (64.181.55.115)
There is very little difference in sound between the Lavry and Benchmark, and the Benchmark is not, in my experience, more "upfront." If anything the Benchmark may be slightly softer on top, but the d .......

15: Benchmark DAC (6.52)
Posted by Robertwaller on 2004-11-07, 11:22:59 (24.196.230.174)
I am considering a Benchmark DAC. Has anyone heard and compared the Benchmark to the Musical Fidelity A3.24 DAC? .......

16: Re: BENCHMARK DAC-1 : anyone ear it ? which opinion ? (6.43)
Posted by Terry Demol on 2003-01-03, 18:16:51 (210.50.30.21)
I have posted this before here, but for your benefit, Bob Katz, world reknowned mastering engineer (early chesky stuff etc) compared Benchmark to some well regarded pro DAC's in $4k range and said it .......

17: Lavry is very different from a Benchmark. (6.43)
Posted by orpheus on 2006-01-19, 10:35:39 (24.188.49.99)
Well, I suppose they are both DACs that use AD chips, but the similiarities pretty much stop there. Lavry uses AD1955 DAC, Benchmark uses AD1853 DAC Lavry doesn't up/oversample (as I understand), Benc .......

18: RE: Preamp Section of Benchmark DAC3 (6.41)
Posted by Gary on 2021-03-06, 12:45:47 (173.77.200.253)
In the few instances where I had the opportunity to listen to Benchmark DACs I found the sound lean, hard and fatiguing. Of course that could have been down to the other components. Still, I'm just no .......

19: RE: Wonder how a Benchmark... (6.36)
Posted by rkeman on 2011-06-25, 14:46:30 (67.8.17.181)
The Benchmark DAC replaced a Wadia 25 in a system of mine about five or six years ago and I thought the Benchmark's analog volume control was easier to use. allowed finer control of the volume and tra .......

20: Re: Benchmark DAC1 Manic-Depression.... (6.36)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2005-01-02, 11:22:13 (68.3.141.191)
The Benchmark upsamples to 110 kHz, and I don't think it can be switched off. I emailed Benchmark to find out. This would be a great DAC if I can get rid of this problem. Provided the upsampling is wh .......

21: Re: Upgrade From Benchmark DAC1 (6.35)
Posted by kmcdonou on 2006-09-25, 14:29:15 (198.110.194.232)
I like the sound of my Ack Dack 2.0 with the high rez caps better than the Benchmark. Also, I recently auditioned the Monarchy M24 and that is one of the best dacs I've heard (with the stock tube) at .......

22: benchmark dac1 vs mytek stereo 96? (6.35)
Posted by doug s. on 2003-10-03, 10:35:15 (165.112.192.216)
hi all, i've been reading some good things about the benchmark dac1. i've also heard about the mytek stereo 96, tho not as much feedback as about the benchmark. myteks' site has downloads of clips com .......

23: RE: Benchmark DAC1 Pre -- Excerpts from Hi-Fi News review (6.31)
Posted by fishermanace on 2008-07-09, 02:18:50 (198.152.14.67)
Hi all, I'm in the midst of looking for a CD player and the Benchmark Dac intrigue me. Just wondering if you could le tme know which transport did you all pair it with teh Benchmark? Appreciate your g .......

24: Re: Ack Dack 2.0 vs. Benchmark dac-1 (6.31)
Posted by Jonathan on 2005-06-19, 13:38:37 (63.237.83.203)
I owned the Benchmark and compared it directly to the Ack 2.0 for a week or so (system was a pair of Ref 3a De Capo speakers and a Pioneer PD-65 transport). Overall, I thought they were both nice soun .......

25: Re: Past info on Ayre vs Benchmark (6.29)
Posted by Rick R on 2004-10-07, 18:38:04 (4.41.252.133)
If you do a search on benchmark and ayre, you will find a post by a member who tried the Benchmark DAC with the Ayre Cx-7 and found the Ayre superior. .......

26: RE: "ANY DAC that can better a benchmark is a giant killer in my book"... (6.27)
Posted by Ivan303 on 2017-12-18, 16:25:55 (198.27.242.3)
Then there are a LOT of 'giant killers' out there because the Benchmark was never much of a 'benchmark', IMNSHO, when it was new. Less so with the last one I heard. Still sounds digital. ::: TOPIC:: .......

27: Benchmark DAC Sells For $975 (6.27)
Posted by JFT on 2005-09-13, 12:21:06 (24.175.116.95)
In the above post I mentioned we listened to a $2,200 Benchmark DAC. I failed to mention that the Benchmark DAC we heard had been modded by an aftermarket modder, and the $2,200 amount was the cost in .......

28: Re: Benchmark DAC1-- Rave "update" review in Positive Feedback online (6.25)
Posted by Mel on 2006-09-14, 21:49:02 (162.84.218.151)
Robert H. Levi tends to exaggerate beyond reason. He writes of the Benchmark DAC 1 that "It beats anything and everything under $2000 in DAC land". Let me guess that Mr. Levi has not auditioned "anyth .......

29: Benchmark DAC 1 (6.23)
Posted by hifimojo04 on 2004-07-31, 17:41:35 (69.164.175.68)
I'm thinking about this Benchmark DAC 1. It's one of my top considerations. Would it sound ok with a cheap Toshiba (slightly modded with damping material) as a transport, though? Should the Toshiba t .......

30: Re: How does it compare to the Benchmark? (nt) (6.21)
Posted by Lynn on 2005-02-27, 09:18:49 (68.2.113.82)
Todd, Can you describe the HF noise in the Benchmark? I have the Benchmark, but have not noticed any noise. Perhaps, like your first Apogee you received a defective unit? Also, do you own the Prism, a .......

31: Re: Turbo Modded (by Empirical Audio) Benchmark DAC1 wows Melbourne Audio Club (6.21)
Posted by tomw on 2005-08-29, 04:16:40 (220.237.52.111)
John I was one of the MAC members who "WOWED" at the turbomodded Benchmark. Many thanks for making this unit and the stock Benchmark (together with the Audionote DAC) available for the comparison. Oth .......

32: Re: benchmark dac1 (6.21)
Posted by saltyflies on 2004-11-12, 13:47:42 (209.227.78.2)
I like the Benchmark alot, but like other below...I think your going to get more bang with an amp upgrade esp with Maggies. Your 1.6's are not as power hungry as the bigger ones. I've heard them with .......

33: Re: Let me be the first to ask: have you compared it to a Benchmark? * (6.19)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2006-06-02, 15:51:18 (70.38.108.122)
Two totally different presentations- The Benchmark sounds "hyperdetailed" and is finicky with transports. The Lavry is extremely warm sounding and maybe more resolute than the Benchmark. I also find t .......

34: RE: CityPulse vs DacMagic vs Benchmark vs ? as a DAC (6.18)
Posted by jpjones on 2009-03-25, 18:49:18 (220.232.227.106)
Do the listening yourself. Don't listen to those saying 'I was told that ...'. I auditioned citypulse and BenchMark. Benchmark does not beat the citypulse at all. Afterall do the listening yourse .......

35: RE: No Giants laying around here but... (6.17)
Posted by thump on 2017-12-18, 14:48:17 (68.107.181.155)
i don't know... benchmark used to be just that, a benchmark of digital sound. ANY DAC that can better a benchmark is a giant killer in my book thanks for adding to my confidence that an X20pro is a so .......

36: A5 = Benchmark?? (6.16)
Posted by Bromo33333 on 2004-11-01, 05:58:11 (12.38.86.36)
I dunno, but given the jitter numbers cited on the website, it has to be using similar anti-jitter chips/technology to the Benchmark. This makes me wonder if they are using a similar chipset to the Be .......

37: Re: Really need your help: MF X-DAC or Benchmark/Lavry DAC's ?? (6.15)
Posted by Maxxfell on 2006-10-13, 08:40:59 (144.81.84.136)
What's wrong with the MF combo? If you've auditioned it and are still thinking that others might be better, that seems to mean there's something about the MF that you don't like. I use the Benchmark a .......

38: RE: benchmark (6.07)
Posted by thump on 2017-12-19, 13:50:59 (68.107.181.155)
i remember the original benchmark getting rave reviews and if i recall correctly, stereophile rated it A+, not that i trust their rating system one bit, but i've seen benchmark get raves elsewhere too .......

39: RE: That wasn't the question.... (6.05)
Posted by ScreamingAcrosstheSky on 2009-10-14, 13:14:54 (74.76.238.135)
Todd-- I haven't made negative Benchmark remarks, but I will, just to spread things around: the Benchmark was not in the ballpark with my ten-year-old tt-1. I usually have trouble getting to bed, beca .......

40: Re: Quad cdp, Benchmark, Lavry, etc. (6.04)
Posted by KCK on 2005-12-12, 07:27:42 (66.32.190.118)
Have Quad now, had Benchmark before. Quad is detailed without being etched, very musical, pretty much a 'no complaints' player for me. Benchmark... in my system, it had most of the pros and cons that .......

41: Re: Todd, when you get to it . . . (6.02)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2004-12-15, 20:00:26 (68.106.53.212)
I no longer have the dAck, but I might get another one... As of right now, two *totally* different presentations. The dAck is very pleasant, is somewhat "reserved" in character, and is forgiving. The .......

42: Benchmark-- Disagree with your comments (6.02)
Posted by Ned on 2010-01-21, 15:51:34 (71.247.61.168)
(1) Your comment: "Benchmark's price is just crazy" (2) Your comment: "The dac itself is not that great" I disagree and so do numerous reviewers, both audiophile and pro, and thousands of Benchmark ow .......

43: Re: Just heard that Stereophile has voted the Benchmark DAC1 as "Product of the Year" (6.02)
Posted by Bromo33333 on 2004-11-22, 14:55:05 (12.38.86.36)
"Some disliking the unit will fume at this because they are unable to face up to the DAC1 revealing flaws in their system - much easier, and more comforting, to rubbish the Benchmark" Wow - I would to .......

44: RE: Benchmark DAC1 Pre as preamp (6.02)
Posted by rkeman on 2009-01-06, 06:55:01 (208.62.174.21)
Intersting reviews of the Benchmark products have shown up recently in HifiNews and AudioXpress. The preamplifier is probably based on the NE5532 opamp favored by Benchmark for analog output sections, .......

45: Re: I Finally Got the Benchmark DAC1 Sounding Right.... (6.00)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2004-12-21, 08:23:16 (129.239.113.211)
I haven't done a direct comparison, but based on memory, when I had the Prism DA-2 in the SET system, I'd say the DA-2 had more refinement and extension at the extreme top, more slam, and bigger sound .......

46: The Benchmark has depth in spades... (6.00)
Posted by rp1@surfnetusa.com on 2004-07-15, 14:51:08 (24.6.62.160)
on speaker systems and amps that are not ringing. The only time(s) I can make the Benchmark sound "clinical" is to feed it a nasty signal or feed the benchmark into a cable/amp system that is not capa .......

47: Re: Ack Dack 2.0 vs. Benchmark dac-1 (5.99)
Posted by Mossback on 2005-06-21, 16:44:39 (130.76.32.16)
My ears agree with Jonathan in the Ack-Benchmark sound. I own an older 1.2? Ack that has a detailed and analog sound. The Benchmark may have a bit more detail but has dry, slightly dead sound to it. : .......

48: Congratulations. One more Benchmark comparison, the same result. (5.97)
Posted by carcass93 on 2011-02-11, 12:54:48 (129.33.19.254)
To me, Benchmark DAC1 is the single most overhyped piece of gear around. In 2 weeks I had it before sending back, I heard everything I need to make that decision easy. I honestly have no idea why more .......

49: Benchmark (5.96)
Posted by PdL on 2004-05-04, 07:35:47 (66.202.27.62)
I have yet to hear the DAC-1, but I have heard many live recordings made with the Benchmark AD2K+, which is their hi-rez portable A>D converter. While the sound of this Benchmark A>D is very clean, mo .......

50: RE: Sub-$1600 D/A shootout? (5.95)
Posted by jaydacus on 2011-09-23, 15:53:13 (76.105.151.30)
I have the Benchmark DAC1 and it sounded much better than any sound card I had ever tried. A year later I replaced it with a Burson ha-160d and could not believe that I thought the Benchmark was good. .......

51: Re: Benchmark DAC1 with USB input port? (5.95)
Posted by pburke on 2004-10-16, 14:53:36 (68.117.131.219)
that'll depend on the receiver chip in the Benchmark. In most cases USB will probably need to go to SPDIF before going into the DAC. However, there are some USB receiver chips out there that have I2S .......

52: RE: Anyone Compare the Benchmark Dac to the Paradisea + Dac (5.94)
Posted by aljordan on 2008-08-15, 07:50:02 (204.10.46.254)
Hi Ken, I don't have a Paradisea +, but I do have both the Benchmark and the MHDT Havana, which is an upgrade over than the Pardisea +. The Havana has the detail of the Benchmark, but sounds more musi .......

53: not enough coax digital inputs on the Benchmark Dac (5.93)
Posted by mr_bill on 2004-11-05, 08:36:33 (63.224.237.90)
If I have a Benchmark Dac and want to use a Roku Soundbridge and my SACD/DVD player and input them both..... but there is only one SPDIF RCA coax input on the Benchmark, what do I do? Do I have to unp .......

54: RE: Benchmark DAC1 Pre as preamp (5.91)
Posted by john on 2009-01-08, 12:32:46 (69.249.39.235)
Doesn't the minimax have a tubed output? I wonder if this also applies to its phono stage. You could do what I did and take the phono out (or via the tape out) from your minimax into the analog line s .......

55: Can't say about bitstream but (5.91)
Posted by tapakah2001 on 2005-07-06, 10:21:06 (83.168.4.149)
I have recently compared Bidat (modded) to Benchmark. Benchmark seems to have a bit better HF extension - but that's about all advantages. Musically they are completely different things. Benchmark pla .......

56: Anyone Compare the Benchmark Dac to the Paradisea + Dac (5.91)
Posted by benie on 2008-08-14, 18:08:04 (75.156.9.128)
I am presently using a Benchmark Dac, but I have heard great things about the Paradisea + Dac. Also I am very much considering a move to a Hard Drive sourse in the near future. The Paradisea + Dac .......

57: Re: How does it compare to the Benchmark? (nt) (5.90)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2005-02-26, 23:35:09 (68.98.228.125)
I prefer it to the Benchmark- Mainly because that fatiguing HF noise problem of the Benchmark is absent in the Apogee and the Apogee has a much-cleaner top. The Apogee is not finicky with transport li .......

58: proceed dap vs benchmark dac1 (5.89)
Posted by daita on 2008-06-03, 22:18:33 (124.106.216.189)
I currently have a benchmark dac1, i am in a position to purchase a proceed dap, i'm wondering if it is worth it since the proceed is an older dac, does anybody here have experience with both and can .......

59: Sony PS3 transport to Benchmark DAC-1 via USB (5.88)
Posted by audioraider on 2008-10-19, 15:59:33 (24.5.17.134)
I am going to purchase a Benchmark DAC-1 and before I spend the extra money on the USB model I was wondering if anyone has tried or knows if I can use a USB cable from the PS3 to the Benchmark. I have .......

60: Stereophile, in its test, used the Benchmark DAC1 and... (5.86)
Posted by Ned on 2010-02-01, 05:39:48 (12.154.167.153)
In its test a year or two ago (I forgot who conducted the test), they did a comparison of the Squeezebox and then the Sqeezebox connected to the Benchmark DAC1. They stated that there was a very very .......

61: Re: Upgrading digital source: Benchmark, Denon, Marantz, or...? (5.86)
Posted by Lynn on 2004-11-02, 16:24:41 (24.251.225.13)
As a fellow DeCappo owner, I can recommend the Benchmark. You will hear all the CD has to offer, no more, and no less. It will not make bad recordings sound good. However, most CDs will amaze you with .......

62: You don't have to worry about it... (5.86)
Posted by Tom on 2007-08-05, 18:29:50 (68.98.55.73)
just connect the DAC (Benchmark or any other) to the line inputs on the Krell. You can use either balanced or single-ended interconnects with the Benchmark/Krell combo. Granted, the Benchmark does hav .......

63: RE: Benchmark DAC2 (5.86)
Posted by Jack G on 2023-03-11, 10:07:00 (69.143.36.35)
I heard the original Benchmark DAC, and it made my ears bleed. Later, I heard an all Benchmark (don' know which version of the DAC) system driving Martin-Logan speakers at a show, more pain, I couldn' .......

64: No contest (5.86)
Posted by Quiet Earth on 2008-07-14, 17:11:20 (76.205.140.232)
twisty, I haven't heard the Audio Note Dac1.1x, but I have owned the 2.1x signature and now the new 3.1x Balanced. I still have my old Benchmark DAC which was purchased long before Stereophile made it .......

65: Re: Can use DVD-Player with Benchmark DAC ? (5.84)
Posted by Gmood1 on 2006-07-28, 09:44:08 (64.136.49.228)
Hi Bertie yes I've read of this before. Unless the Benchmark can boost the signal by ten times and condition a better digital signal before it ever reaches the Benchmark. IMO.. The units will still ha .......

66: Benchmark DAC1 advice please (5.84)
Posted by S Kenny on 2005-01-10, 00:55:59 (213.94.231.158)
Hi, I have a upgrading budget at the moment of around $1-1.5K, and do not believe this will allow me to purchase a componant that will be a sufficient upgrade to what I have already, (My system is lis .......

67: Re: Stay Tuned...... (5.83)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2005-12-30, 14:28:20 (70.209.33.242)
I no longer have the Benchmark. I was not particularly happy when I had the Benchmark. However, I will do a direct comparison with the Prism DA-2. The Lavry, to my knowledge, does *not* use asynchrono .......

68: What I'm Hearing Now... (5.82)
Posted by raingerz on 2003-10-08, 17:56:31 (205.184.174.57)
Thanks for replying. After 24 hours of breaking in the Benchmark with no apparent change, I think you're probably right that the Benchmark doesn't change much, if at all. At this point, it is pretty a .......

69: RE: benchmark and krell 400xi? (5.81)
Posted by zanash on 2007-08-06, 23:08:01 (86.5.2.5)
don't bother with the benchmark ..its staggeringly over priced and can be outperformed by the likes of the behringer src2496 at 1/10 the price ! I have a friend who swore by the benchmark dac1 until w .......

70: Re: Lavry vs. Benchmark DAC1 shootout (5.80)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2004-07-15, 18:52:54 (68.106.53.191)
Interesting one reviewer finds the Benchmark close to the top-of-the-line Lavry, yet another reviewer finds the Benchmark not so close to the "budget" Lavry... .......

71: Re: Anybody using the benchmark dac1 with a high end cd player? (5.80)
Posted by audioengr on 2004-12-26, 09:40:16 (66.62.155.2)
I have never heard this particular combo, but if the Bel Canto with the 777 is better than the 777 alone, then the Benchmark will be significantly better than the 777 alone. I have heard the Benchmark .......

72: I agree (5.80)
Posted by ydavid on 2008-07-18, 06:44:39 (66.108.48.136)
I cannot understand the raves in the audio press about the Benchmark (and many other current digital sources for that matter). I found the Benchmark very fatiguing. High frequencies like pins and need .......

73: RE: dac decision: Benchmark or Audio Note (5.80)
Posted by audiozorro on 2008-07-14, 19:03:24 (71.166.158.137)
I would recommend that you get the Audio Note since you have listened to one and were impressed. Words and reviews should always be taken as a starting point and with a grain of salt. You should alway .......

74: Sounds Like My Experience with the Benchmark DAC.... (5.79)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2007-04-12, 12:40:58 (75.214.78.91)
The Raysonic uses asynchronous sample-rate conversion. With short-term listening, it may indeed sound fantastic. The Benchmark DAC I had fared very well in this regard. But with long-term listening, i .......

75: Re: Try the Benchmark! (5.77)
Posted by Bromo33333 on 2004-11-04, 14:46:40 (12.38.86.36)
"So even with my 521 on the front end, the Benchmark will outperform a dedicated unit like a Music Hall Maverick or a MF X-Ray?" I think you need to see/hear for yourself. If it were my system, I woul .......

76: I'm with bacon-bits! (5.76)
Posted by joeljoel1947 on 2010-03-07, 05:50:28 (76.226.94.115)
I too have a Raysonic 128 and sold my Benchmark Dac! I compared them head to head before selling it, there was no question the Raysonic was better (as long as upsampling is turned off). By comparison .......

77: Re: Price to ask on A324 DAC? (5.76)
Posted by Jim Austin on 2006-04-08, 13:46:54 (70.16.65.101)
Tom, Actually, I've had the A324 in a box for a year or so. I replaced it with a Benchmark DAC1, which I've still got. I don't think I ever liked the Benchmark any better, but it wasn't worse either, .......

78: Re: Transport for Benchmark Dac1 (5.76)
Posted by subhuman on 2003-07-23, 13:31:21 (64.112.226.186)
755 would be a great choice. Also consider the Philips 793SA.. Benchmark DAC claims to be mainly transport dependant, but the Sony you mention is a decent cheap choice. You may want to experiment with .......

79: I compared the Benchmark DAC1 vs Classe CDP10. (5.76)
Posted by gdg on 2004-12-30, 16:37:00 (24.69.255.242)
Comparing the Benchmark Dac1 (fed by a Panasonic RP82 dvd player) to my Classe CDP10 I find that: -the Benchmark is: a)more detailed overall and b)more controlled in the bass but... -the Classe is: a) .......

80: RE: I just got about 5,000 new CDs. (5.75)
Posted by Mali on 2023-03-30, 09:13:03 (98.159.33.45)
I've had two. I have an excellent Tortuga Audio preamp but it keeps breaking down (about every two years or so ) so I have to send it in. Can't bear to be without music, I got the Benchmark to tide me .......

81: Re: Benchmark DAC1 with Taddeo Digital Antidote II.... (5.75)
Posted by laznos on 2005-01-05, 20:02:12 (68.50.114.165)
Which just shows that the Benchmark is not 'jitter-proof', as if there was such a thing. Jitter, being the degradation of the waveform itself, and not just its time-shifting, cannot be completely reje .......

82: Srajan Ebaen reviews the Benchmark DAC1 (5.73)
Posted by BaddaBob on 2005-03-22, 03:16:09 (24.156.106.153)
Srajan Ebaen of 6moons.com casts his unflinching ear on the DAC1. .......

83: Re: PS Audio Digital Link III VS Benchmark DAC1 (5.73)
Posted by ts on 2007-04-16, 12:28:20 (160.79.139.10)
I just bought the new Benchmark DAC1 USB which I eventually plan to use with a dedicated headphone amp (HeadAmp GS-1) and is currently on order. I did try the Benchmark's built-in headphone amp, which .......

84: RE: benchmark (5.72)
Posted by DC STEVE on 2004-12-07, 08:22:03 (66.153.70.100)
How would you characterize the improvements? I heard the benchmark is a little lean in the mids. Not sure that's for me... .......

85: Re: You definitely had a defective Benchmark unit. [nt] (5.70)
Posted by Sound Ranger on 2005-03-04, 06:56:22 (81.174.203.217)
'romandoc' is a Benchmark owner? ;-) .......

86: Re: Benchmark volume control. (5.70)
Posted by tiberian on 2005-03-09, 23:49:50 (208.42.174.43)
i had a benchmark for 6 months and i didn't really hear a difference. .......

87: Re: Bel Canto, Benchmark or ? (5.70)
Posted by oddio_1 on 2005-12-14, 11:50:07 (24.5.152.62)
Thanks, the Benchmark interests me because of it's extensive feature set. .......

88: RE: Any opinions on Dacmagic vs Benchmark via USB? (5.70)
Posted by jimmyjames on 2008-12-02, 06:18:19 (64.208.230.145)
I have the DacMagic and for the money it's a no brainer. The swiss army knife of dacs. They are in demand right now. I have not heard the Benchmark. Way too spendy in my opinion. It should sound bette .......

89: Benchmark DAC1 (5.68)
Posted by Atticus on 2003-03-12, 07:42:21 (64.65.212.229)
Hi all, I was just wondering if there were any Benchmark DAC1 users out there. They have been out in use for about five months now and I'm just wondering what you all think of them. You don't have t .......

90: Benchmark DAC1 - 1st edition - opinions ? (5.67)
Posted by beppe61 on 2015-06-30, 22:39:43 (85.19.92.6)
Hi ! i bought some weeks ago a Benchmark DAC1 - 1st edition (same back as the unit in the picture). I had no opportunities for a serious listening. Is this unit still a good one ? Any advice about cab .......

91: RE: Benchmark DAC1 (basic) (5.67)
Posted by psyopwak on 2013-11-03, 15:09:59 (76.188.35.249)
If your CDP is older or does not use a high quality chip or is just not that great, the Benchmark will improve the sound greatly using RCA cables. I have a Benchmark DAC USB1 (have not used the USB as .......

92: RE: Naim CD 5i vs. Benchmark (5.66)
Posted by kuma on 2009-01-22, 09:31:33 (71.194.22.132)
A few Naim CD player owners have opted for the Lavry DA10 or Bearsford DAC over the Benchmark. I couldn't live with either, but the choice of gear is highly personal. You will hear the marketable diff .......

93: Re: Benchmark DAC1- both outputs at same time? (5.66)
Posted by winslow on 2005-08-03, 18:59:22 (69.134.102.51)
That was the plan...and thanks guys. Been too busy to call Benchmark to see for myself. .......

94: RE: Benchmark DAC2 HGC - First review of Benchmark's new dac (5.66)
Posted by Ned on 2012-10-27, 07:03:00 (100.2.232.233)
That's clearly a case of "premature speculation". .......

95: Re: Benchmark DAC1 (5.66)
Posted by Bromo33333 on 2005-07-17, 05:11:44 (24.149.38.85)
"The Benchmark is basically a pro dac / preamp. The Apogee sound quality is far superior." The benchmark has a much drier sound with a lot of detail in the treble region. I am not sure what the magazi .......

96: Re: Try to hear the Benchmark (5.64)
Posted by Arlekino on 2004-07-09, 08:21:33 (65.201.223.6)
The benchmark unit is a professional product though and it only has XLR and BNC coaxial inputs. .......

97: Re: Is this true about Benchmark DAC1? (5.62)
Posted by fmak on 2005-01-22, 09:03:25 (195.92.67.74)
Only believer your ears; the Benchmark resamples and had cheap NE5532 opamps! .......

98: Channel Island VDA-1 vs Benchmark DAC-1 (5.62)
Posted by drpje on 2004-08-07, 13:26:27 (200.77.3.222)
What are the differences between the Channel Island VDA-1 and the Benchmark DAC-1 The Benchmark seems to be a newer model but is also a lot more expensive. Is it worth the difference in price and is t .......

99: Sonic boom when turning off Benchmark DAC (5.61)
Posted by thisisjay on 2010-01-15, 21:19:54 (71.117.254.27)
I have my amp and Benchmark DAC plugged into an APC power conditioner that has a power switch. I thought this would be the perfect way to turn off my amp that has the power switch in the back and the .......

100: RE: dac decision: Benchmark or Audio Note (5.61)
Posted by aljordan on 2008-07-27, 11:32:43 (74.69.243.112)
Hi, One of the reviewers in Stereophile did a write-up of the Grace M902 a couple years ago. He liked it very much. I haven't tried the Grace but I do own a Lynx Studio 2B for my PC setup. In my opini .......

101: Re: Benchmark Bass Caper- Transport Incompatibility?? (5.58)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2004-12-16, 18:44:17 (68.106.53.212)
I'm not so sure if it's quality... I think it's a digital signal that the Benchmark didn't like... .......

102: Benchmark DAC1 changes (5.58)
Posted by Champion on 2006-12-03, 12:01:19 (202.12.105.132)
Hi, previous threads says that different op amp are used in the early ones. Does any one know if Benchmark has made any other changes since then? I am asking before I would like to know if buying use .......

103: RE: Benchmark DAC1 mods? (5.58)
Posted by jaydacus on 2011-10-01, 17:41:26 (76.105.151.30)
The best mod for the Benchmark is to replace the entire unit with something else. I can't imagine a better way to get great sound. .......

104: Re: Really need your help: MF X-DAC or Benchmark/Lavry DAC's ?? (5.58)
Posted by jam.amorim@gmail.com on 2006-10-13, 11:27:37 (89.180.2.180)
I have not yet auditioned the MF combo yet, but I will. So far I've just been picking the best DAC's within my price range. I know I could just audition the X-Dac combo, buy it if I like it and forget .......

105: DAC question (5.57)
Posted by ianm0 on 2008-06-22, 00:50:26 (210.84.50.92)
I am thinking of getting Benchmark DAC1 with USB. At the moment, I am trying not to acquire a transport, as I may decide to load my music onto my hard disk and play the files to the Benchmark. Meanwhi .......

106: Consider Benchmark's ADC1 (5.56)
Posted by DevillEars on 2006-02-22, 06:48:49 (129.227.211.229)
From the same company that manufactures the DAC1 - a current rave favourite - the ADC1 is a 24-bit, 192KHz Analog-to-Digital Converter that comes at a realistic price point. (See link below for Benchm .......

107: Re: Benchmark into amp - revisited? (5.56)
Posted by ramallo on 2004-10-26, 07:44:13 (80.58.11.42)
Hello, For me, the Benchmark sounds better with his pot off, but if you do not have a ultra clean preamp, is better the direct connection. Cheers .......

108: Re: Benchmark volume control criticisms make no sense at all!!!!! (5.53)
Posted by tiberian on 2005-03-15, 05:29:57 (208.42.174.43)
had the benchmark for a while...never noticed any significant difference between the 2 modes. maybe its because of my rig...oh well. .......

109: RE: Cambridge 840 vs cheap dvd transport & Benchmark dac - help. (5.53)
Posted by philltubes on 2008-07-28, 19:56:58 (74.160.9.213)
I had an older version of the Benchmark that I used with a Toshiba DVD player and never found the combination to my liking. Several players later I now have the Cambridge 740c and although audio memor .......

110: RE: Cambridge 840 vs cheap dvd transport & Benchmark dac - help. (5.53)
Posted by audio39 on 2008-07-28, 17:56:13 (99.224.69.179)
The Cambridge 840C will outperform any combination you come up with utilizing the Benchmark DAC. I've owned my 840C for a year now and everytime I listen to it I'm just amazed at what it does...and I .......

111: The thread has direct answers from a Benchmark engineer (5.53)
Posted by Ned on 2007-11-01, 11:05:29 (65.173.228.40)
It really is a testament to the kind of company that Benchmark is to have one of its engineers provide direct informative answers to such questions. This carries on the tradition of the owner's manual .......

112: Re: Benchmark DAC1 becoming obsolete (5.53)
Posted by ampgalore@yahoo.com on 2004-11-19, 06:31:18 (152.3.83.105)
Well, we were told that 16bit was enough, the 18bit, the 20bit, and now 24bit. Only a year ago the Benchmark DAC1 was using 24bit/96kHz. It was only around March or so that Benchmark DAC1 was upgraded .......

113: Re: Best cd player for around $1000 (new or used) (5.52)
Posted by clbeanz on 2005-02-04, 16:16:48 (24.7.187.204)
You missed all the exited posts about the Benchmark DAC-1? As good a starting point for your research as any. This would allow you to retain the DVP9000ES and possibly squelch the upgrade bug. Link he .......

114: RE: DAC question (5.51)
Posted by aljordan on 2008-06-23, 06:54:27 (204.10.46.254)
My old CAL Icon Mk II has an spdif output via RCA jack. If your cd player has a similar digital output, the Benchmark will work but it will require an RCA to BNC adapter. The Benchmark receives spdif .......

115: Benchmark or Grace (5.50)
Posted by John Marks on 2005-06-23, 08:37:09 (64.223.48.248)
For dedicated headphone listening, the problem is, as far as I know, most CDP headphone drivers are little IC op-amps. There is no substitute for a real headphone amp. There are two headphone amps in .......

116: That's the one I would get... Let us know how you like it. (5.50)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2004-08-27, 18:48:04 (67.176.119.211)
If I sold my CDP, I think I would try the Benchmark DAC on my universal player for improved redbook playback. Please let us know how you like the Benchmark once you've had a chance to play with it for .......

117: RE: ? Beat the Benchmark Dac1 HDR? (5.49)
Posted by mbnx01 on 2013-06-26, 21:16:28 (98.145.88.111)
I have never heard a Benchmark dac I liked. So, most things, IMHO. This is one of those popular product whose appeal has always escaped me. .......

118: Re: Multiple digital processors hooked in chain...? (5.49)
Posted by RichPA on 2006-07-25, 03:11:00 (68.234.216.58)
I have a somewhat similar setup: Theta Miles > Monarchy DIP Classic > Monarcy Upsampler > Behringer DEQ2496 > Benchmark DAC1. It works well for me, and I do think the reclocking/upsampling ahead of th .......

119: Is there any comparison between Benchmark and Bryston, fed from the same transport? (5.49)
Posted by carcass93 on 2009-08-27, 08:10:37 (129.33.19.254)
I evaluated both, at different points in time, via digital input (not USB). Benchmark was bought with 30-day money back, Bryston mint used - both went back. Benchmark sounded aggressive in high freque .......

120: Re: What *dedicated* transport would well complement the Benchmark DAC1 (5.48)
Posted by FF on 2004-05-20, 04:31:01 (209.240.205.63)
A old Cal labs Delta Or A pre-owned CEC would fit the requirements but a player/transport such as the Marantz CD5400 would suffice also. I had the Benchmark but returned it for a Belcanto DAC-2 which .......

121: RE: Benchmark or PS Audio DAC (5.48)
Posted by jnrich on 2009-03-17, 15:25:51 (69.249.39.235)
I happen to own both the Benchmark and the Lavry and have used both extensively with my Squeezebox. I can say that they are different from one another sonically, but that I love them both. Which one I .......

122: Re: benchmark dac1 (5.47)
Posted by Lynn on 2004-11-12, 20:47:44 (24.251.225.13)
The answer depends upon what you are looking for. I am biased since I own the Benchmark (after owning many pricer DACs). If you are looking for a warmer 'tube like' sound, I don't think the Benchmark .......

123: Re: Benchmark DAC - output impedance (5.47)
Posted by RichPA on 2004-11-06, 02:31:23 (69.162.5.83)
I've run 15-foot unbalanced cables from those outputs on my Benchmark with no problems. Rich .......

124: Agree with Benchmark (5.45)
Posted by Jim Thomas on 2004-12-14, 13:12:27 (216.52.207.56)
Your results match Benchmark's claims, that the DAC is pretty much transport indifferent. I still can't explain why I am getting much better bass with the Denon. .......

125: RE: Is there any comparison between Benchmark and Bryston, fed from the same transport? (5.45)
Posted by fmak on 2009-08-27, 08:23:37 (79.72.246.232)
Yes, broadly similar to your observations. Benchmark blames it on CU errors from the transports. Menesis??? .......

126: RE: Blew away? (5.45)
Posted by jaydacus on 2011-10-04, 07:39:29 (76.105.151.30)
What exactly I meant by blew away: Benchmark-Harsh, brittle, thin, closed in sound with a limited "tone vocabulary".Compared to the Burson Burson- Smooth, delicate, full bodied, wide open sound with g .......

127: Benchmark DAC1 (5.45)
Posted by VonWaffen@aol.com on 2005-07-16, 17:45:22 (67.150.235.170)
Hello everyone, I have a question about the Benchmark DAC1. Since the company produces professional equipment, does the DAC1 have similarities to Apogee DACs, also produced for pro sound? I've had a .......

128: Benchmark DAC1 96 or 44? (5.45)
Posted by Lynn on 2005-02-02, 18:14:56 (68.2.113.82)
Hi, I have owned my Benchmark for about 4-5 months now, and I think it is hard to beat. It is really difficult to cost justify spending more on a DAC. I do have a question for Benchmark owners. What s .......

129: Benchmark DAC1 vs the Super High End (5.44)
Posted by AlphaGeek on 2004-10-01, 20:03:04 (67.168.247.236)
"I can’t recommend that audiophiles spend more money on a DAC until they audition the Benchmark Media DAC1 in their own systems." That seems to be the common thread of most of the reviews of this uni .......

130: Re: Benchmark Dac 1 vs Birdland Odeon AG 1.1 (5.44)
Posted by Nineteen on 2004-12-22, 21:03:57 (24.5.132.8)
I haven't done an A/B between the two - heard them at different times. I have heard the Birdland DAC at a dealer on Chord electronics (their top of the line). It sounds on the darker/less revealing si .......

131: Benchmark, but when using with a passive pre-amp..... (5.43)
Posted by Ned on 2004-11-02, 17:18:49 (205.188.116.7)
I have the Benchmark Dac1 and it is absolutely superb. BUT : See my posts about 2 months ago about using the Benchmark Dac1 with a passive pre-amp when using the unit's RCA outs, which have too high a .......

132: RE: The very vocal anti- Benchmark crowd - all 5 of them..... (5.42)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2011-10-02, 18:49:39 (72.200.118.49)
People should audition the products before making the decision. I personally don't like the Benchmark DAC, but that does not mean someone else won't like it. .......

133: Suggest you contact Benchmark, via email preferably (5.41)
Posted by Ned on 2004-12-27, 19:30:28 (64.12.116.7)
Benchmark is very receptive to questions from owners. They were great with some questions I had. .......

134: RE: dac decision: Benchmark or Audio Note (5.41)
Posted by aljordan on 2008-07-22, 08:24:27 (204.10.46.254)
Hi, I don't have an Audio Note DAC, but I have a similarly designed MHDT Lab Havana DAC, which is also a tubed output non-oversampling DAC sans digital filter. I also have a Benchmark DAC. Keep in min .......

135: Re: Digital volume control in combination with Benchmark analog pot. (5.40)
Posted by Lynn on 2005-03-18, 16:54:20 (68.2.113.82)
Hi, I use digital volume control exclusively with my benchmark. Jumpers are default 29db out, front volume control switched out the circuit, and rear volume pots left at factory settings. Balanced out .......

136: Hunh? (5.39)
Posted by John Marks on 2005-10-11, 10:07:30 (70.109.215.172)
I can't make sense of your posting, syntactically or otherwise. What is the antecedent of the "them" in your second paragraph. It would appear to be the Benchmark and the Grace, which makes no sense. .......

137: RE: are there any DAC which are standouts ..... 1500 - 2000 ? (5.38)
Posted by Leo loves music on 2024-09-13, 18:16:02 (69.118.107.235)
I have a Benchmark DAC3 HGC. Stereophile rated it as a class A+. However for me it is a no. It has some kind distortion which I can't stand with. I also have a Sony ES CD player. It is better than the .......

138: RE: Not quite (5.38)
Posted by GGA on 2007-11-11, 11:23:07 (71.105.246.174)
"(The first Benchmark DAC didn't upsample to 96 or to 192, but to 110.)" Doesn't the current Benchmark still sample to 110? .......

139: Does the Benchmark have a phono stage? (5.38)
Posted by Frihed89 on 2009-01-06, 06:06:09 (130.226.56.2)
If not, you will have to use the phonostage preamp and not the Benchmark preamp to play records. "Live free or die" .......

140: Re: DI/O DAC modification pages back up (5.38)
Posted by humancomputervirus on 2005-05-01, 07:12:18 (69.235.152.54)
How's this for a try? I just got my Benchmark dac-1, extremely resolving to the point that I feel like I'm sitting in the control booth, a wonderful lens into the intention of the artist and engineer. .......

141: comp.+DAC: Benchmark DAC1 HDR (5.37)
Posted by dave789 on 2014-12-13, 16:23:33 (98.217.204.116)
Benchmark DAC1 HDR 192k/24b DAC, Remote-Controlled Preamp and Headphone Amp MADE IN USA © 2012 KenRockwell.com. All rights reserved. Unbalanced output spectrum at 2.8V nominal peak, 1 kHz square-wave .......

142: How did it sound? . . . (5.37)
Posted by Jim A. on 2004-03-31, 07:32:43 (64.12.116.9)
Not a rhetorical question. Notwithstanding how much it weighs, I was considering the Benchmark but opted for a Dack instead, which UPS is due to deliver today. I'm still thinking about upsampling. Wha .......

143: Re: Comments about the Benchmark Dac1.... (5.37)
Posted by KCK on 2004-09-27, 15:12:55 (66.32.253.34)
Ned, what are you using as a transport? The Benchmark person I spoke with thought my Sony would be just fine. He also mentioned the Tosh 3960 and said they tried it and weren't thrilled with it. ::: T .......

144: If I were in the market for a DAC right now... (5.37)
Posted by Tom on 2004-11-03, 12:33:57 (67.101.88.227)
I'd be somewhat put off by all of this glowing praise of the Benchmark...and probably go in another direction, the contrarian that I am. But, fortunately, I bought my Benchmark three months ago...befo .......

145: Re: Benchmark DAC1 w/ vs. Rega planet (5.37)
Posted by unaffiliated on 2005-01-23, 15:54:59 (66.140.87.74)
Best way to tell is to compare. There are several pro audio outlets that will give you a 30-day return privilege on the Benchmark unit. Why not try before you buy? .......

146: RE: Benchmark Dac1 USB XLR/RCA outputs (5.37)
Posted by mjcmt on 2008-09-09, 08:07:02 (152.42.182.159)
Benchmark is pro gear so it seams likely that it is. They have a responsive customer service department I'm told. Mike .......

147: RE: Benchmark DAC1 (basic) (5.37)
Posted by noway on 2013-10-22, 21:45:48 (99.224.212.30)
Use the outputs on the Benchmark that are most compatible with the inputs on your pre or power amp. I wouldn't try adapters or cables that have balanced on one side and RCA on the other. .......

148: Benchmark (5.37)
Posted by 4season on 2014-01-09, 15:53:14 (204.131.179.187)
I've been using Benchmark's DAC 2 HGC since this past summer, and it's great. For the price, I wish it didn't send a "thump" through the system when powered on or off, but I can't fault it's sonics. : .......

149: Modify Classe CDP-10 or buy Benchmark DAC? (5.37)
Posted by Racman on 2007-06-17, 23:45:09 (165.233.50.121)
Hi, Will the benchmark DAC be a substantial upgrade with my Classe CDP-10 and what will the improvements be? Currently using Ps Audio GCC500 & MG1.2QR's Or should I rather upgrade to a new CD Player o .......

150: Apogee (5.36)
Posted by PdL on 2009-08-26, 14:42:05 (24.63.105.115)
The Benchmark is known for having a very sterile/clinical sound. I prefer the Apogee converters which have great resolution but are a bit more euphonic than the Benchmark. .......

151: Re: Pro vs Consumer Audio and DACs (5.35)
Posted by audioengr on 2005-11-18, 11:08:03 (66.220.126.9)
First of all, you must inderstand that the Benchmark has gone through a series of improvements over the last year. The Benchmark guys have listened to our complaints and done something about it. The l .......

152: Benchmark Dac & analog to digital converter (5.35)
Posted by Ajy55906 on 2004-11-13, 08:22:55 (66.188.223.213)
I am very pleased with the Benchmark Dac directly driving my speakers. But, I would like to connect a tuner also. I am not aware of any tuners with a digital out. As a result, I wondered if it could c .......

153: Re: humm . . . (5.34)
Posted by Terry Demol on 2005-05-08, 06:52:48 (210.50.143.21)
Test results are fine... but consider the following as an example: Compare the Lavry DAC also tested and measured by Stereophile, to the Benchmark. The Lavry costs from memory almost 10 x the Benchmar .......

154: Re: DAC4 (5.33)
Posted by audioengr on 2005-08-31, 10:25:05 (66.220.126.20)
"Could you expand on some of the differences/similarities you heard btw the benchmark and the DAC4? Also, would be interested to know what transport/cabling was used then and also in the recent club m .......

155: Benchmark DAC1 30-day *try before you buy* (5.33)
Posted by zoomin on 2004-11-07, 23:10:08 (24.109.133.139)
I hear this mentioned on this forum but find no mention on the Benchmark website, and the local pro audio shop knows nothing about it - can anyone elaborate? Thanks. .......

156: You just gave Benchmark the excuse to create and sell a transport at extorbitant prices (5.32)
Posted by jeromelang on 2004-12-22, 22:09:20 (165.21.154.11)
Clearly the Benchmark DAC is just as bad as other DACs in rejecting jitter from transports and digital interfaces. .......

157: RE: Wonder how a Benchmark... (5.32)
Posted by Eric B on 2011-06-25, 19:15:33 (68.228.74.254)
Yes, I made the comparison. IMHO, the Opus 21 was significantly better sounding. While I thought the Benchmark was very good for the money, it tended to be on the dry & analytical side of the fence fo .......

158: Re: Benchmark Dac1 -- A few more comments (5.32)
Posted by Ajy55906 on 2004-09-27, 17:58:48 (66.188.223.213)
Ned, Can you recommend a digital cable for the Benchmark. I guess I'd spend up to $200, but would hope not to spend more than is necessary. Alan .......

159: In fact... (5.31)
Posted by Jim Austin on 2006-11-11, 18:28:49 (64.223.224.71)
I understand the Philips version is no longer available--that was the reason for the change, according to the Benchmark folks. Benchmark says the performance is identical. Jim .......

160: RE: Benchmark DAC1 Pre -- Excerpts from Hi-Fi News review (5.31)
Posted by EliasGwinn on 2008-08-08, 07:38:21 (66.218.5.2)
Hi there, I'm an applications engineer with Benchmark. I can answer any questions you may have with regards to the DAC1. Thanks, Elias .......

161: RE: Benchmark DAC2 (5.31)
Posted by AbeCollins on 2023-03-11, 09:17:31 (73.229.163.4)
The Benchmark DAC2 is a decade old which is pretty old by digital standards. There are much better DAC chips out now and even better DACs for less money. But if you expect your digital setup to sound .......

162: RE: MSB LINK III (2001, old) (5.31)
Posted by raingerz on 2015-02-09, 18:56:50 (69.122.5.176)
I too compared the original Benchmark DAC (then the "flavor of the month") with my heavily modified MSB Link III. The result? I found that the Benchmark in my system was clinical-sounding and not as s .......

163: Re: Opinions requested on Benchmark DAC1 (5.31)
Posted by saltyflies on 2006-08-17, 14:42:25 (66.28.244.19)
The benchmark is very literal, with a stronger emphasis on the leading edge of the attack and a forward voicing. It excels with neutral to warm, but borders on in your face with lean stuff. Based on m .......

164: RE: Another take... (5.31)
Posted by Regor Ladan on 2011-02-04, 15:40:38 (192.251.226.206)
I would not be shocked about the Grace, no salt needed. As a matter of fact I am sure it will smoke the Benchmark. I have had the Benchmark in my house and did not see what all the fuss was about. It .......

165: Re: Australian Benchmark distributor (5.31)
Posted by Harbord on 2004-11-27, 17:09:39 (203.122.211.67)
In the USA the Benchmark DAC1 retails for US$975 which currently equals AUD $ 1,230. Yet the list price here is Australia is AUD $1795 Inc GST which equates to a 30% mark-up before GST. So does the th .......

166: Be careful - e.g. Benchmark (5.31)
Posted by BobM on 2004-07-15, 12:57:43 (167.230.38.106)
Remember that reviewers seem to like a detailed and crisp sound from their "reference" components. If you read the statements made about the Benchmark by people on the various audio forums you will he .......

167: Arcam FMJ-23 vs. Benchmark DAC vs. Cal Alpha (not 24/96) (5.31)
Posted by Jim A. on 2004-01-04, 17:11:00 (152.163.252.5)
Hi, have mad $$$ available, looking to upgrade my Cal Alpha (stock). Been considering the Arcam FMJ-23 or the Benchmark DAC (w/Theta Data II and Genesis Digital Lens). I've heard the Arcam, liked it a .......

168: Benchmark DAC-1, Lavry DA10, Altmann Attraction (5.30)
Posted by SashaV on 2007-04-10, 05:54:19 (66.203.197.200)
Has anyone had a chance to compare any of these 3 DACs? My understanding based on comments in various forums is that in general Benchmark DAC-1 sounds very detailed, but in some systems may be too thi .......

169: Benchmark DAC1 gain control troubles (5.30)
Posted by pepperpot on 2007-02-15, 04:10:22 (213.150.1.85)
hi, just a question concerning Benchmark DAC1 ´s gain control. In variable mode, means using the DAC´s internal gain control and going directly to power amp, my DAC produces some crackling noise while .......

170: Transport & Benchmark DAC (5.30)
Posted by Jim Thomas on 2004-12-14, 10:12:18 (216.52.207.56)
I have a Benchmark DAC-1 on approval. Overall I am very impressed. I have tried it with two transports: first a Denon 1560 that is several years old; second a cheapo ($100!) Sony DVP NS 500V I got pur .......

171: So I'm most curious now..... (5.29)
Posted by Sordidman on 2004-06-28, 14:27:51 (216.142.75.142)
Since the Benchmark is working out so well, - will you get rid of your Levinson and get another transport. I've been thinking of auditioning the Benchmark against a Stello with a Marantz SA-14 or a So .......

172: Benchmark Dac 1 vs Birdland Odeon AG 1.1 (5.28)
Posted by Frank on 2004-12-22, 17:40:03 (24.187.25.20)
Has anyone compared these two DACs?? How do they compare?? Is the Benchmark really as good as everyone says?? Would either of these Dacs be an upgrade to my AH! Tjoeb4000/upsampled?? .......

173: Next Gen Benchmark DAC? (5.28)
Posted by Harbord on 2005-03-10, 13:31:15 (203.122.197.215)
I seem to remember reading somewhere about the rumoured next generation DAC from Benchmark. I was under the impression that it would include a USB input and come out sometime early 2005. .......

174: RE: Stereophile, in its test, used the Benchmark DAC1 and... (5.28)
Posted by mäç on 2010-02-01, 21:16:38 (24.16.56.143)
There will be a fairly significant improvement by using *any* modern DAC with the squeezebox (including the Benchmark DAC1). I use a DacMagic with my SB3. .......

175: Any opinions on Dacmagic vs Benchmark via USB? (5.28)
Posted by crossram2x4@aol.com on 2008-12-01, 23:59:08 (98.196.64.162)
I'm getting a PC based music server for Christmas and will need a D/A converter with USB input and XLR output to actually generate music. There is much good said about the Benchmark USB DAC, but recen .......

176: Re: Benchmark DAC 1 (5.27)
Posted by mcgsxr on 2004-08-01, 16:16:36 (69.157.3.162)
Not sure about the crystal damping, but I have read that the Benchmark DAC is VERY transport independent - you should be very well off with the Tosh, feeding that DAC. Mark .......

177: RE: MSB LINK III (2001, old) (5.27)
Posted by Ned on 2015-02-07, 20:38:25 (100.2.64.70)
The MSB would certainly be outclassed by today's digital. I had the MSB Link III with the "Half Nelson" upgrade and Channel Islands upgraded power supply. But when I obtained a Benchmark Dac1 in 2004 .......

178: Re: Benchmark DAC1 to active monitors (5.25)
Posted by kevb on 2005-03-24, 16:25:58 (149.99.128.18)
Check out the Soundstage review of the Benchmark - Doug Schneider used it to great effect with a pair of Paradigm Active 40's. .......

179: Re: DAC4 (5.25)
Posted by BTan on 2005-08-30, 16:39:17 (203.47.220.10)
Could you expand on some of the differences/similarities you heard btw the benchmark and the DAC4? Also, would be interested to know what transport/cabling was used then and also in the recent club me .......

180: Re: Pioneer? (5.25)
Posted by reagan on 2006-01-04, 08:43:07 (160.81.221.42)
I ordered the same unit from Tiger direct. I ordered it based on a recommendation by the folks at Benchmark. It has been tested at Benchmark for use with the DAC1. It is supposed to be "bit transparen .......

181: Upgrade From Benchmark DAC1 (5.25)
Posted by Moss on 2006-09-25, 08:44:03 (71.247.7.110)
Good day, I'm wondering about what former users of the Benchmark DAC 1 may have eventually upgraded to? It seems to get better all round performance it can be quite a setep up in cost... Thanks Moss .......

182: RE: benchmark and krell 400xi? (5.25)
Posted by Todd Krieger on 2007-08-05, 15:29:04 (70.104.149.216)
What is your current CD player? The Benchmark/Krell combo I'd guess might sound somewhat "anaytical", based on past experience. --> .......

183: Hi rez to iPod/wadia/Benchmark DAC1? (5.25)
Posted by torc on 2010-01-19, 14:09:07 (24.61.189.206)
I don't know if this is the right place, and if it has been answered, I didn't see it(or likely asked the wrong question). I'm curious if I can use my iPod/Wadia170transport/Benchmark to play hi-rez d .......

184: RE: Benchmark DAC1 mods? (5.25)
Posted by Kenn on 2011-10-01, 18:28:45 (209.29.24.120)
You may want to check out Benchmark's view point http://www.benchmarkmedia.com/discuss/forum/dac1-pre-dac1-hdr/dac1-upgrade Parts ConneXion said that they dropped the Benchmark dealership so they can .......

185: RE: Older Sony CDdeck vs newer models (5.24)
Posted by s.a.b. on 2011-12-23, 15:58:05 (98.149.171.17)
I own the 9000es. I now use it as a transport with a Benchmark DAC1 as I can avoid using a preamp. However if using a preamp I actually slightly prefer using the 9000es without the Benchmark. I've bri .......

186: Re: Benchmark DAC1 (5.24)
Posted by subhuman on 2003-05-21, 09:21:37 (207.189.147.141)
What did you have before and/or what have you audition before deciding on the Benchmark? It looked like an interesting product to me and reasonably priced... My guess is the achilles heal is in the po .......

187: RE: Benchmark (5.24)
Posted by Cut-Throat on 2014-01-10, 07:24:24 (68.54.42.74)
Once nice thing that I didn't realize, is that you can buy the DAC 2 without Headphone Jacks and amplifier. It is $200 cheaper and has a much 'cleaner' looking faceplate. And Benchmark also has a 30 d .......

188: Re: Benchmark DAC (5.24)
Posted by Jim Austin on 2004-11-08, 04:52:52 (65.246.227.42)
Both are excellent. A324 is a little warmer, Benchmark a little more detailed. I own both. Jim Austin .......

189: Benchmark DAC1, Preamp??? (5.24)
Posted by Lynn on 2004-09-29, 17:31:47 (24.251.225.13)
Is as a preamp necessary to get the best sound from the Benchmark DAC1? Thanks. .......

190: Re: Exactly...and let me add a little story for you all... (5.23)
Posted by Jon L on 2006-01-29, 10:22:28 (206.40.210.63)
I agree with most of what you say, but the term "DAC-1 Clone" is a bit too much, especially considering Lavry does sound better than DAC-1 to many ears, including mine. Lavry is never going to sell n .......

191: Re: Just wait one damn minute (5.23)
Posted by Bromo33333 on 2005-07-18, 09:30:56 (12.38.86.36)
"I have used Apogee A to Ds on pro projects. I have never heard their small DACs. If there is one with a volume control that can drive a power amp, it was never on display at a pro audio show I attend .......

192: Benchmark: No upgrade for DAC1 (5.23)
Posted by Beauregard on 2006-02-01, 11:59:29 (24.149.35.174)
Having posted on Head-Fi and Audio Asylum that Benchmark offers a US$50 upgrade for the DAC1 that updates the single-ended outputs to the 30 ohm resistance of the current spec product, I need to set t .......

193: So, you "bought" what they say........ (5.23)
Posted by Ric Schultz on 2017-01-31, 11:43:04 (73.71.167.177)
If you think this is real and the "only" thing that makes DACs great then there is no other choice. You must buy a Benchmark. There are very, very few recordings that are even near 0db. Benchmark DACs .......

194: Benchmark Dac-1 2.0 (5.22)
Posted by Maxxwire on 2005-11-14, 20:30:13 (209.240.205.63)
I have been researching the Benchmark Dac-1 2.0 and I've learned that it upsamples to 110k hz. Does this Dac also interpolate to 24 bit wordlength? .......

195: Hmmm, no lack of bass here either... (5.22)
Posted by Jonathan on 2005-01-15, 12:02:24 (63.237.83.203)
Obviously, I can't dispute what you're hearing in your rig; however, I'm hearing no lack of deep bass in my system (Benchmark directly into a Mac 2100 amp w/De Capo speakers). As for a lack of mid bas .......

196: The Benchmark DAC1 is just OK (5.21)
Posted by Magnetar on 2003-07-04, 18:55:31 (68.72.210.101)
My Adcom GDA600 with OPA2134 or AD826 opamps stomped it and so did my Audionote 1.2. What I found best about the Benchmark was the money back gaurantee. Magnetar Click to Jazz out .. .......

197: Benchmark DAC1 reviewed by Soundstage (5.21)
Posted by KKC on 2004-10-01, 13:10:54 (66.245.0.217)
Sorry if this is old news. But it's dated today... http://www.soundstage.com/revequip/benchmark_dac1.htm I guess Schneider liked it-- called it a "benchmark". .......

198: Re: Can use DVD-Player with Benchmark DAC ? (5.21)
Posted by Bertie_Livingston on 2006-07-28, 07:47:15 (24.232.232.29)
No point in adding jitter conditioners (which for the most part don't work anyway). The Benchmark is pretty immune to jitter. See Stereophile measurements. .......

199: For the original Squeezebox... (5.21)
Posted by Ned on 2010-09-18, 20:59:34 (162.83.240.117)
FWIW, the original Squeezebox was tested by Stereophile about 2 years ago or so. A comparison was made between the SB's DAC and a Benchmark DAC1. The Benchmark was described as much better in all resp .......

200: Cairn vs Quad CDP99 vs Benchmark (5.21)
Posted by ApexMaster on 2005-02-13, 18:27:54 (4.27.4.9)
I have just sold my Cary 306/200 and am looking to replace it for less money. I am wondering how the Cairn fog compares to the Quad CDP 99 compares to the Benchmark DAC-1. I have paradigm active speak .......

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