I like my DAC1. It sounds better now that I use USB from JRiver instead of sourcing from a CD player, but there could be many reasons for that. I haven't tried much else, but I feel confident that Benchmark gets it right and is a great neutral unit to build around. If I'm going to color or flavor the sound,I'd rather do it with other components. Seems like on the bench, Benchmark is the benchmark. My upgrade will be to DAC2.
I s Benchmark the "Benchmark"
Benchmark DACs and other products always seem to get a good and widespread positive buzz as being on the cutting edge technically and moving the ball forward every few years as well.
As one who has never knowingly heard a BEnchmark product I wonder what Audiogoner's who have heard current Benchmark products, amps and DACS mainly, think of BEnchmark compared to their other favorites?
Benchmark gear is modest cost in these parts. Is Benchmark really a "benchmark" for performance and associated good sound or just another player.
As one who has never knowingly heard a BEnchmark product I wonder what Audiogoner's who have heard current Benchmark products, amps and DACS mainly, think of BEnchmark compared to their other favorites?
Benchmark gear is modest cost in these parts. Is Benchmark really a "benchmark" for performance and associated good sound or just another player.