What do you replace a Benchmark with for 24/96?


I am contemplating selling my Benchmark DAC 1 because I need a DAC with two coax inputs. My current system is a pair of Monarchy SE-100's, Modwright SWL 9.0, VSA VR4jr's, Onkyo SP 1000 with DH Labs & Acoustic Zen cables. I listen to rock music & prefer a smoother presentation to my music. I must admit the Onkyo sounds very good on it's own if not a touch laid back but the Benchmark beats it on the dynamics. What are some good choices for about $1000.00?
fishwater

Showing 3 responses by benie

Fishwater, I know what you mean. I really like my Benchmark Dac but For 7 months ran it Direct to my amp as I found it much better than the preamps (ss,tube) I tried. But I found Magic with a New Tube Preamp from Space Tech.Labs. It put me way into the next level, can't say enough about this Preamp. Mine is pictured on his website it's the the one with the tube rectifier + bigger Power Suppy.http://www.space-tech-lab.com/SP-QA-111-BAL.html All his Models are handmade point to point wiring and I am just a happy custmer.
Why don't you just get a cable made up to go from RCA to XLR and use your XLR input. There are also adapters you can get for RCA to XLR. Keep the Benchmark.
Fishwater If you want a little tube warmth maybe think about put a good tube buffer between the Dac + pre. same brand as my preamp. a friend back east has the 103 tube buffer on his CD player on said it was a 30% improvement in Sonics. Bal. or RCA in/outputs, there are afew models to choose from. Keep your Dac and get some warmth,30 day money back on the products