Benchmark DAC2 HGC as compared to current DACs

I would imagine a better music streamer would be in order before a new DAC would be considered. Getting something Like thishttps://innuos.com/pulse-mini/ Would probably be a better upgrade in it’s sound quality than getting a benchmark DAC. Even though I am a INNUOS fanboy there is plenty of good remarks for products like Aurender. Hopefully, I didn’t put too big of a wrench into your plans. Just a thought for your journey.

Excellent DAC, especially for $500. 

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

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.

@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.

@jasonbourne71 appreciate the info - thanks!!

@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.  

@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!

It’s a very good unit and the price is best I have seen.  Just be sure for that price that there are no issues of concern. 

That’s the right price, I have the same and used as a headphone amplifier.  You only need the driver if using it with a computer.  You will be fine, there isn’t much out there for $500 that will be better than that also you won’t get hurt for $500 out of pocket if it’s not to your liking.

Good luck 

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

Send me a DM if you want to discuss my streamer. 

With regards to the 192 issues on the DAC2 I do not remember what I did 10 years ago on this. However, the easiest way to figure this out is send Rory an email.

Rory@benchmarkmedia.com

Rory Rall

Sales Mgr.

Benchmark Media Systems, Inc.

203 E. Hampton Place, Ste 2

Syracuse, NY 13206

http://www.benchmarkmedia.com

WiiM Ultra excellent for the price...many here like Benchmark gear very much, and many do not like their sound at all...

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....

@johnnotkathi One of the smartest buys I have read on A'Gon. Congrats.