Very simple. CD digital out (via RCA coax or Toslink) into the Benchmark DAC (using RCA or BNC terminated cable, or Toslink). Then RCA analog outs from Benchmark into the CD input of your Pre (or another aux input, if you still want to use CD direct to Pre). Flip the (rear) toggle switch of the Benchmark to FIXED volume out, so all volume control is via the Pre.
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!