dac choice

Plato, Thanks for the info. Do you run the Monarchy 24 directly in to your amp? I would be using it with an integrated so I wouldn't use the volume control. Have you tried it both ways?

The Benchmark is excellent and does many things well. It's a great value, but it's a tad clinical for me.

The Dagogo reviewer listed them as 17/14/4.

Recently, I was encouraged to listen to a new Benchmark Dac 1. A friend told me that while the company hasn't changed model numbers, newer units sound better. I've put about 300 hours on a new Benchmark, and I'm pleasantly surprised at how good it sounds. About 18 months ago I extensively auditioned a Dac 1. Since then Benchmark has begun using Texas Instrument op amps, and has made some other minor changes to the product. For whatever reason, I think the new units are much less sterile and much more listenable. It's the same impressive detail without the harshness. It sure isn't tubes, and I wouldn't call it warm, but if you have only heard an older version, it might be worth a listen to a newer unit.

I think they changed op amps in March of 2006.

A lot has happened since I posted that question almost a year ago. I needed a dac for a second system and took a fly on the Benchmark. I had heard the product many times, and I've always considered it a great value. But while I loved it's clarity and resolution, it sounded a bit too clinical and somehow missed the soul of the music.

I read that the company had changed op amps which made the dac sound much smoother and less harsh, so having a 30 day return policy, I took a chance.

The current version (IMHO) is much better than the earlier production. I wouldn't call it warm or euphonic, but I wouldn't call it harsh either. It's incredibly resolving, and I'm amazed at how much you get for it's asking price. I think it's a great value! Your mileage may vary, but if you haven't heard the Benchmark in a couple of years, it might be worth another listen.

I'm now considering putting a small system in my bedroom. (I know--can you say obsessive?) I could go with another Benchmark but it would be more fun to try something else.

The Monarchy might be a great fit. Both the reviews and word of mouth are very strong, and it's on my short list, but I'd prefer not to risk a 15% restocking fee.

The new PS Audio Dac sounds like an interesting possibility, and I'm really curious about the modified Lite Audio Dac-60 from GR Research.

Does anyone have any experience listening too the PS or Lite, or comparing any of these dacs? Any other dac suggestions in that price range?

Thanks