Benchmark 1, 2 & 3

I was very surprised to see that. There is a significant difference between the DAC1 and DAC2, as most reviewers said at the time of the DAC2's introduction -- more detail, smoother, less bright -- overall much more listenable. I had the DAC1 and DAC2 at the same time (before I sold the DAC1) and the improvement with the DAC2 was apparent to everyone who heard it in my system. Frankly I wouldn't touch a DAC1 at this time - only get a DAC2. 

I can't comment on the DAC2 v. the DAC3 -- I haven't heard the latter -- but Benchmark itself has stated there is no audible difference (which is a bit hard to believe given the change in dac chips.)  Personally I'd get a DAC2 and pocket the difference.

Compare the Stereophile measurements.

I would echo @dne statements, I have owned all 3. I could not tell a difference between 2 and 3. From 1 to 2 was a massive improvement for me. Allowed me to go direct to amp and sell a preamp. I think a preamp is still better but I needed the cash at the time and the 2 came to the rescue.

DAC1 was extremely clean, but a little thin sounding in the lower midrange. Replacing op-amps made sound a little more vivid and fuller, but DAC3 is much better overall. Sound is still very clean and extended on both ends, but midrange sounds much better - cello sounds more natural, male voices have more "chestiness". Background is darker, sound more refined.
I jumped from DAC1 to DAC3, so I cannot comment on the sound of DAC2. I use DAC3 with AHB2 amp with great results.

I’d like to mention another difference between DAC1 and DAC3 HGC (Hybrid Gain Control) - volume control. DAC1 volume control got static noise over time. I was able to slightly bend the back of the pot and force in "Fade lube" spray (Deoxit). It worked fine for few years after that, but started to exhibit the same problem again. DAC3 HGC, having digital volume control for digital sources, is free from this problem without any negative effects (at least I don’t hear any).

Some time ago I asked Benchmark about the sonic differences between my DAC2 HGC and the DAC3 models and this was the response: “As long as you have the newer firmware (2.2) you have better than 95% of a DAC3.  If we thought it was an appreciable difference, we would have an upgrade program.”

Wow, many businesses would try to get you to buy a new unit. Good for Benchmark 

How do you know the firmware level and how do you upgrade It?

I've been using a Terminator for a year and used my old DAC2 HGC to debug a problem.  I was stunned by how good the DAC2 sounded.  Great bass depth and control, and more upper midrange energy, which might be a better match for my aging ears.

I'm sitting here with a DAC3, DAC2, AHB2 all connected to Susvara headphones.  Definitely a dream system.  Using a full speaker amp with Susvara is a must, not even close,  Was using an HPA4 (no slouch of a headphone amp).  5 second AB test, done.

So, is the DAC 3 THAT much better than Dac 2  ? ? ? ? ?

Specs on the 3 are clearly better, but can the human ear discern a difference, more specifically, can MY human ear.

Going back and forth... I can't tell a difference.

Both are amazing transparent DACs, you can't go wrong.  I've been through too many DACs to count and these are my favorite. (if you like transparent sounding gear, no coloration). 

My 2 cents, hope this helps prospective buyers.    - steve

 

 

Even Benchmark says you won't hear a difference between the DAC2 and DAC3.