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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
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.  

johnnotkathi OP
85 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!

 

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