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 plato

Another great sounding DAC is the new Monarchy M24 tube DAC/linestage. It lists for $1490, but you may be able to get it for less. You can run another source through the tube linestage as well (like a phono stage or FM tuner).

The only drawback is that you might find that the tube linestage in the Monarchy sounds as good as the Modwright SWL 9.0 -- in which case you could sell the Modwright as well as the Benchmark and recoup some of your money. ;-)

It only has one coax input, but it also has a Toslink fiber-optic input, if that will work for you.
Fishwater, I know it may sound unlikely, but I bet the Monarchy does equal the Modwright. It'a a super good and natural sounding piece. It handily beat my TAD-150 Signature and I ended up selling that piece... YMMV

But if you have the chance to try one, definitely go for it.
Hmmm, I'm not sure if it's possible, but you might want to give Mr. Poon at Monarchy a call and run that by him. He may be able to swap the optical input for second coaxial input. If so, that should work well for you. It would certainly be worth a phone call or an e-mail to find out...