The Benchmark DAC1 is certainly a worthy component. So is the similarly priced Lavry Black DA10.
A number of listeners have preferred the latter to the former. I have both and could happily live with either. Some days or weeks I use the Lavry, others the Benchmark. Sometimes I like the ultra clarity and resolution of the Benchmark better; sometimes the slightly smoother presentation of the Lavry.
For affordable external DACs of high quality, I'd say these two are the top candidates. Practical fact: there's a lot more used Benchmarks available.
Hope this helps.
Joel.
A number of listeners have preferred the latter to the former. I have both and could happily live with either. Some days or weeks I use the Lavry, others the Benchmark. Sometimes I like the ultra clarity and resolution of the Benchmark better; sometimes the slightly smoother presentation of the Lavry.
For affordable external DACs of high quality, I'd say these two are the top candidates. Practical fact: there's a lot more used Benchmarks available.
Hope this helps.
Joel.