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Benchmark DAC2 HGC as compared to current DACs

There is a used Benchmark DAC2 HGC for sale near me for $500.  I am still at the "WiiM Ultra" level of streaming/DACs and looking to upgrade.  Recognizing this is a MUCH older unit, how would it compare, sound wise, to what I have OR other current DACs, lets say in the $500 - $1k range (NEW OR USED).  

Also, reading Stereophile's review, I noted:

"If you play only 24-bit/96kHz files via USB, no extra drivers are needed. To play DSD or 192kHz files, a downloadable driver is provided for Windows computers, and the DAC2 must be set to USB 2.0 mode."

I would not be running this via a computer, so I am reading that I cannot get the "needed driver" to play 192kHz files.  Is that correct?

For addl context, would likely be playing this via a NAD C375BEE to either Thiel CS1.6 or Monitor Audio GS20 speakers.

Thanks!!

johnnotkathi

Showing 6 responses by johnnotkathi

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

Got it and it is all set up!!  Once the wife wakes up, will give it a proper testing but so far, really like it.  Will see which sounds better, USB or Coax, and go from there! 

Thanks for all the input!!  John

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

@jasonbourne71 appreciate the info - thanks!!

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

@yyzsantabarbara 

Thanks for the info!  The DAC2 definitely interests me and it is at a dealer near me, so may go check it out today. 

 

My one concern, again, is that was said in a review:

"If you play only 24-bit/96kHz files via USB, no extra drivers are needed. To play DSD or 192kHz files, a downloadable driver is provided for Windows computers, and the DAC2 must be set to USB 2.0 mode."

Yet a different review says:

"It’ll accept 24-bit/192kHz signals through USB and co-ax dropping to a 96kHz sampling rate limit for the optical input."

I just want to be sure it plays/processes lossless files typically found now on Tidal, etc.  If I can validate that, likely will buy it today if still available! (I won't be using a computer.)

Sure, I may be interested in something you want to sell; specifics? 

Thanks again!

 

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

@cfarrow thanks - will check it out and maybe get it today!

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

@namrider1 

Thanks for the info.  I am definitely looking at the DMP-A8 and with the new Eversolo products coming out, hoping they will go on sale or I can find a clean/used one.  That unit looks really solid.  Might just run it through a power amp and leave it at that.  

johnnotkathi OP
88 posts
 

Went to the Dealer’s place and he demonstrated the Benchmark DAC2.  It also just so happened that while he is selling it, he was also using it in his main listening room along with some huge NAD monoblocks and gorgeous Dali speakers that were about 6 feet high.  Apparently, he had loaned out the DAC he typically uses so substituted in the Benchmark.  It sounded awesome!  Picking it up tomorrow....

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