Musichead, there is no "better" in my opinion, since it is very subjective. I had Benchmark DAC1 before and it was extremely clean, but a still little "lean" sounding (in spite of my opamp modification). My new Benchmark DAC3 HGC, in comparison, is still very clean (and fast), but also full sounding, including lower midrange. Benchmark DAC3, according to reviews, was about the same sound quality as Auralic Vega for much less. I chose HGC version, since remote control was included in price ($100 extra otherwise). I don't use analog inputs now, but who knows what will happen in the future - DAC3 is to stay with me for a very long time (if not forever).
Which DAC: Benchmark, Mytek, Audio Mirror, Holo Audio, Mojo Audio?
Looking to upgrade my current Rega DAC-R and have been doing some internet searching and these DACs look interesting and fit within my price range:
BENCHMARK - DAC3 B - $1700
MYTEK DIGITAL Mytek - Liberty DAC - $1000
Audio Mirror - TUBADOUR III DAC - $1200
Holo Audio – Spring DAC 2/3 - $1900-2700
Mojo Audio - Mystique v2 SE DAC - $2500
The other option is to just stick with the Rega DAC-R
I play CDs only and would like to maximize that format. Anyone have experience with these DACs? I have no opportunity to audition them where I live.
Which DAC would provide the most significant upgrade from the Rega? The Rega frames the music well and sounds good with almost every disc I throw at it. I’m not shooting for different and I don’t want something that will limit what's enjoyable (CDs or types of music).
BENCHMARK - DAC3 B - $1700
MYTEK DIGITAL Mytek - Liberty DAC - $1000
Audio Mirror - TUBADOUR III DAC - $1200
Holo Audio – Spring DAC 2/3 - $1900-2700
Mojo Audio - Mystique v2 SE DAC - $2500
The other option is to just stick with the Rega DAC-R
I play CDs only and would like to maximize that format. Anyone have experience with these DACs? I have no opportunity to audition them where I live.
Which DAC would provide the most significant upgrade from the Rega? The Rega frames the music well and sounds good with almost every disc I throw at it. I’m not shooting for different and I don’t want something that will limit what's enjoyable (CDs or types of music).