Bel Canto Dac 1.5 or Benchmark Dac 1 Usb

Waterzlife...

Have you checked with your local BC dealer to see if they have a demo you can try?

***BC dealer disclaimer***

Is there a way to audition Bel Canto dacs at home with a 30 return policy?

That's a tough question mate. :\

I agree completely with Nolitan, having heard both, albeit in different but "equally good" systems.

I find both units great, it depends on the musical tastes you have. Benchmark media have a 30 day trial, you should take advantage of this.

I had both dacs and the Bel Canto is far more musical than the Benchmark. Benchmark maybe more neutral and truth to source, the bel is warmer but i find it more bolder & musical.
Th bel would be a better match w/ the brystons.

I'd suggest having an audition if you can.

The Benchmark has been around for a while now and while it has its strengths, you may find it sounding very lean. I had the Benchmark Pre before and I understand the DAC is fundamentally the same, just that I had an analog input vs the USB version.

I don't have the Bel Canto DAC1.5 but from my listening impressions, it has the "Bel Canto" family sound which I liked. A bit more musical, a bit more warmth without losing details.

I use the DAC3.5VB MkII now.