2. digital
  3. 179714-162656

DAC Advice - Benchmark DAC 3

Hello Everyone. I am seeking advice. I am rebuilding my audio system after kids and space limitations. I have (being shipped soon) the Benchmark amp AHB2. I currently have old SF Concerto stand mounted bookshelf speakers which I plan to replace. Have not decided on the new speakers yet. I want/need a DAC. I am hard leaning to the Benchmark DAC3.

I need balanced output. I need analog input so I can tie it into my home theater system. I like the idea of a single item with volume control build in and different selectable inputs. I like the idea that it will be very compatible with the amp by the same company. I like benchmark as a company/group - I was able to call the company and speak to someone who was super helpful. I like the size as it fits my space well. I want a neutral DAC (and amp) that does not color the sound. I am not a super audiophile - I just want some solid gear that does not get in the way of the music that will last a long time - my hearing is not perfect nor is my room.

Since this DAC fits with what I need, any reasons that I should not buy this DAC? I just wanted to check with some experts before finally deciding so I don’t mess up. Thank you.

 

12many

Showing 3 responses by yyzsantabarbara

yyzsantabarbara
5,021 posts
 

Do not buy the DAC if you want to use as a volume control. Get the DAC3B (no volume control) and buy the LA4 preamp (or HPA4). The LA4 will make the DAC sound better. That seems weird to add more signal path for cleaner sound but it will work like that with this ultra clean preamp.

I sold a $7.5K DAC so that I can buy a 2nd LA4 preamp for my new Livingroom system. If you want a clean sound the LA4 will deliver. The DAC3 with volume is not great at low volume.

My office system is LA4 and 2 AHB2's. I also have a DAC3B but I have that on my tube headphone amp. I use a Musetec 005 DAC with the LA4 + AHB2. I have a second Musetec 005 DAC that I will pair with my second LA4 preamp for my new Livingroom system. I am sold on that combo.

I do like the all Benchmark stack DAC3B | LA4 | AHB2, but the very smooth Musetec 005 is a nice touch over the slightly brighter DAC3B.


 

 

 

yyzsantabarbara
5,021 posts
 

I made a mistake. I should have stated. I sold a $7.5K PREAMP to get another LA4 preamp. I never go DAC direct to amp when the LA4 to amp is better (for $2.5K)

yyzsantabarbara
5,021 posts
 

@decooney Interesting observation. It is either preference or lack of synergy with the gear you were using. 

The DAC3B is a little 'hot' on top. I can tell that by listening on my uber revealing SR1a headphone, It is fatiguing on that gear with 2-channel. That is with the LA4 preamp and CODA 07x preamp. No issue with low volume though.

However, put the DAC3B on my tube RAAL VM-1a headphone amp and the sound is magic. The headphone amp is sort of an integrated amp in the sense it has preamp and amp built-in.

 

More to discover