2. analog
  3. 169905-76707

DAC Dilemma

I will (probably foolishly) put my decision before you all and see if I get any informed opinions, or if I just get scoffed at. I have been at this hobby many years, but must admit to not having the sophistication that many of you do. To those of you that are DAC experts. I have read, and it is my understanding that DAC technology has progressed to the point that 1) new "entry level" DAC’s blow away earlier generation DACs that originally cost much more, and 2) the difference between most current DACs as far as sound quality is pretty subtle. I have an Aurender N100H (which is going to stay) with a PS Audio DirectStream DAC (Not the $6K version. The $3K version with no bridge) feeding into an Audio Research SP16 tubed preamp into a high end solid state amp. Should I 1) just keep what I have (yes, it sounds good, but it could always be better) 2) replace the PS Audio with an Audio Research DAC7 that is about 11 years old but very well reviewed in it’s day, or 3) sell the PS Audio and the Audio Research SP16 and replace both with a Benchmark DAC3 HGC. The Benchmark would give me a current Class A DAC along with multiple inputs for digital, and two inputs for both of my turntables, thus eliminating the need for a separate preamp. But, would the Benchmark SOUND better than either the PS Audio DAC or the DAC7? I am very much aware that the DAC's mentioned above address the actual digital to analogue conversion in very different ways which is precisely why I'm asking which one you think gives the best (natural, uncolored, transparent) sound. Opinions please.
128x128pascon

Showing 5 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
@petaluman, 
+1.

1 I/V conversion method
2 Power supply quality and robustness 
3 Audio signal path layout
4 Analogue output stage design and implementation 

I truly believe that these analogue factors could very well be the more critical determinate of the overall sound quality of a DAC.
Charles 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
I believe that Benchmark offers a 30 day (So plenty of time to thoroughly sort it out) trial period. Take advantage and listen in your home. you may possibly find you like their sonic signature/characteristics.
Charles
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
@pascon,
Reading your comments lead me to conclude that  you are going to be fine moving forward. You've reached the crossroads of realization.  You have to choose audio equipment based on what I believe is the most important criteria, what do "you" like. Simple admittedly philosophically but sometimes it takes awhile to get there.

All the frequent talk (Angst?) about ever more detail and resolution. These qualities are worthy of pursuit  but only if they are congruent with musical enjoyment and heightening your emotional engagement and spontaneous reactions to what you're listening to.musicality and pure visceral connection along with high resolution are not incompatible. 

But if listening to a component or system sounds clinical/analytical/sterile dry and lifeless don't let someone convince you that, oh it's just accurate, neutral and very detailed, BS! It you are not thoroughly engaging and could continue listening for hours then something is wrong. Music listening should be fully enjoyable and compelling to your satisfaction. Per your posts above I can see that you have come to that recognition. I heard the Holo May level 3 DAC in my audio system (A loan from a friend). Very nice sounding but I'd  choose @jond older generation Audio Note DAC 3 if ultimate musical involving listening were the stated objective. That's just me, others might prefer the Holo May DAC.
Charles 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
@pascon,
The Benchmark DAC has its admirers as well who find it awesome and believe that it is accurate, neutral and true to the recording  source. They would counter that the ARC DAC 7 and Audionote DACs are simply pleasingly colored. So two different and yet credible perspectives (No surprises there).  As always subjective and personal.
Charles
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,236 posts
 
@david_ten,

"Agree with the other members who advise against the Benchmark (for your specific case / situation).

Former ARC DAC7 owner. It’s very good; a standout when it was released and offered"

Yep, Agree!! And +1 @jond and @ghdprentice , wise counsel indeed. Current entry level DACs aren’t "blowing away" older generation high quality DACs in terms of sound quality.

If you’re more interested in features/number of inputs/impressive specs on paper that’s a different choice. In terms of sound quality and engaging reproduction of music I’d without hesitation go with the ARC DAC7 (And definitely @jond’s older Audio Note 3 DAC).
Charles
More to discover