I tried the Benchmark HDR in my system for a couple of weeks, and sent it back. Great energy, PRaT, and the best cymbal sounds I've heard, but too sterile and lean overall. All bone, no meat; all ash, no wood. I always perceived that I was listening to recordings and mixes, rather than listening to music and performances. (Fair enough, as that was what the Benchmark is designed for.) So a Wyred DAC-2 is on the way.
W4S question: Is the HT bypass essentially an analoge in that you could use with any source? (Is it subject to the DAC-2's volume control?) Hopefully yes.
W4S question: Is the HT bypass essentially an analoge in that you could use with any source? (Is it subject to the DAC-2's volume control?) Hopefully yes.