Benchmark Dac1 - next step recommendations please

One approach would be to improve your DAC. I think you should consider the Audio Horizons TD 3.0 DAC ($2250), which can be obtained on a 30 day trial basis. It's a wonderful performer. You can find it advertised here on Audiogon.

I've used the TD 3.0 with both tube (VTL MB 185 Signature) and solid state (Simaudio W-5) amplification. Also, I've delivered digital signal to it from both a high end transport (Levinson 37) and a file server (SONOS ZP80). In each configuration, the TD 3.0 has been a great performer.

Thanks Cedar,
I'm wonder if anyone has had good results with Modding a Dac1 or is the next step going to a better DAC?

If you haven't already, you should look at the website for Empirical Audio, Steve Nugent's company. They mod the DAC1 and also are thought leaders in the PC audio space.

I would suggest that you speak with Stephen Balliet at Reflection audio (www.reflectionaudio.com). He does a mod to the Benchmark that retains it's virtues while strenghting other areas...he can also instruct on one (there are others) way to go at computer digital.

Go to a USB DAC such as the Benchmark DAC1 USB.