How do I connect Benchmark DAC


Just received Banchmark DAC1. I have no clue how to connect it to my equipment. I have a preamp, power amp, CD player(s) and non powered speakers. Connections are RCA and have no XLR's! I don't have any dedicated interconnects for the DAC, but am in fast pursuit of Analysis Plus Digital Crystal(RCA) which I have researched and ultimately selected. Okay, so now what? Baby steps please. I have determined that I want to use the RCA's Unbalanced on the DAC. I have 1 CD input on my Audio Research Pre. Where do I go from here? I want to use the CDP as the source. Please enlighten!
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Showing 1 response by kijanki

You need 75ohm digital coax RCA-to-BNC cable like this:
www.amazon

This cable should be either very short (< 1ft) or at least 1.5m (there are technical reasons for that). Select coax switch position on the front panel of DAC1.

Benchmark DAC1 has two sets of outputs RCA or XLR. If your preamp or amp has already XLR inputs - get XLR interconnect. Otherwise use RCA outputs.

There is small switch on the back of DAC1. It allows to choose Calibrated-Off-Variable output. Use "Calibrated" when connecting to preamp with volume control, Variable when connecting directly to power amp (using DAC1 volume control) or "Off" when you listen on the headphones.

In Calibrated mode two 10-turn trimpots marked L and R allow to fine trim output levels. Adjust them if you have to.

If you decide to connect your DAC1 directly to power amp (as I did) select "Variable" position and protect switch from accidental change (I inserted piece of plastic into the hole) since it will put max level directly to power amp in "Calibrated" position.