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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
jasonbourne71's avatar
jasonbourne71
1,385 posts
 

The WiiM Ultra is an excellent streamer. No need to buy something more expensive!

namrider1
2 posts
 

I own a WiiM Ultra in a third system but have quite a bit of experience with it now.  I I use it as a streamer only as the DAC is not that good, imo.  So upgrading the DAC for $500 might be a worthwhile upgrade.

Alternatively I think the EverSolo DMP-A6 could upgrade both - but if you can swing it I'd sell the WiiM and get an EverSolo DMP-A8 as it is both an excellent streamer (much better than WiiM) and an excellent DAC for the money.  I run my DMP-A8 through a McIntosh 352 and it has a great sound that is getting close to my primary system that is McIntosh C49 preamp whose DAC is great for me.  So the Eversolo streamer is great, the DMP-A6 DAC is okay, but the DMP-A8 has both a great streamer and a very good DAC - I think FOR THE MONEY this is best I've heard lately.

yyzsantabarbara
5,060 posts
 

@johnnotkathi 

The DAC2 sounds the same as the DAC3 as stated by Rory Rail at Benchmark. I have had both and would agree.

I recently sold my DAC3B because I had too many DACs. The DAC3 and DAC2 are both a bit hot on top. If you have a warm system, the DAC2 could be a great choice. For $500 that is a great choice.

I used 3 Sonore Optical Rendu streamers for my 3 DACs. I have 2 DACs now and an extra streamer, if you are interested.

 

johnnotkathi OP
85 posts
 

@jasonbourne71 appreciate the info - thanks!!

johnnotkathi OP
85 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.  

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