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Description

Experience audio clarity like never before with the Benchmark DAC1 2-Channel 24-Bit 192kHz D/A Converter, a staple in the realm of digital-to-analog conversion. Engineered for precision, this converter breathes new life into your audio by delivering pristine, distortion-free sound that captures every nuance of your recordings. Whether you're a professional audio engineer or an audiophile, the DAC1 ensures your music is heard exactly as intended—rich, detailed, and untainted by jitter-induced artifacts.

Equipped with Benchmark's exclusive UltraLock technology, the DAC1 isolates jitter, maintaining impeccable sound fidelity across any environment. Its compact design houses a high-performance, automatic pre-emphasized processing system, coupled with the legendary HPA-2 headphone amplifier for ultra-low distortion listening. These features make it an indispensable tool for mastering studios, high-end home audio systems, and any setting where audio purity is paramount.

Perfect for direct connection to powered monitors, the DAC1 offers versatile inputs and outputs, including balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA options. Its intuitive interface, complete with a digital input source-selection switch and variable or preset output level controls, ensures seamless integration into any audio setup.

Key Features:

  • 2-channel, 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog conversion
  • UltraLock technology for total jitter immunity
  • THD+N = -106dB (0.0005%), ensuring pristine sound quality
  • High-output, low-distortion HPA-2 headphone amplifier
  • AES/EBU (XLR & Coax) and S/PDIF (XLR, Coax, & Toslink) inputs
  • Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs
  • Built-in international 115/230 volt power supply
  • Automatic pre-emphasized audio processing
  • Milled aluminum front panel with 1/2 wide, 1RU chassis design
  • Direct connection to powered monitors with variable/preset output level controls

Product specs

Brand Benchmark
Model DAC1 2-Channel 24-Bit 192kHz D/A Conerter
Year 2000s
Made In United States
Categories AD/DA Converters

FAQs

What digital inputs are available on the Benchmark DAC1?

The Benchmark DAC1 offers four digital inputs: USB, XLR balanced, BNC coaxial, and TOSLINK optical, providing versatile connectivity options for various digital audio sources.

Does the Benchmark DAC1 require drivers for USB audio on Windows or Mac?

No, the Benchmark DAC1 is compatible with Windows Vista/XP/2000 and Mac OS X without the need for driver installation, ensuring easy setup and operation.

How does the Benchmark DAC1 handle jitter in digital audio signals?

The Benchmark DAC1 uses phase-accurate UltraLock technology to provide total jitter immunity, ensuring high-quality audio conversion with minimal distortion.

What are the output options on the Benchmark DAC1?

The DAC1 features four stereo outputs: XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced, and two headphone jacks, allowing flexible output configurations for various audio setups.

Can the Benchmark DAC1's headphone amplifier be adjusted for different headphones?

Yes, the DAC1 includes a selectable gain-range for its headphone amplifier, allowing it to match the sensitivity of different headphones for optimal performance.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Benchmark DAC1 2-Channel 24-Bit 192kHz D/A Conerter.

Comparisons

  • A former studio professional noted that the Benchmark DAC1 couldn't reproduce fine details as well as the Lavry DA10, revealing -37dbfs vocal track distortion.

    Source
  • Some enthusiasts suggest that the Benchmark DAC1 sounds similar to older CD players and onboard audio, hinting at its limitations compared to high-end DACs like Burson.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find that DACs improve imaging, but the headphone's capability to portray this is crucial. Good imaging headphones help display these improvements effectively.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Users highlight that DACs can mitigate noise issues in setups with noisy onboard sound, particularly beneficial when using optical connections to avoid conductive interference.

    Source
  • A user noted that DACs like the Benchmark DAC1 are vital for listening environments with significant low-level noise, enhancing spatial cues and noise floor clarity.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Benchmark Media DAC1 Review : Part 2

dagogo.com

Benchmark's DAC1 is a mixed bag, leaning towards a clean, precise sound that's perfect for analytical listeners. Its UltraLock feature impressively reduces jitter, leveling the field for cheaper CD players. However, its cool, detailed presentation may not suit those preferring warmth and fluidity. As both a DAC and preamp, it's versatile, but pairing it wisely is crucial to avoid harshness. While it excels in detail retrieval, its sound can feel detached, lacking the warmth some might crave. If precision is your game, DAC1 is a worthy contender, but it might not knock your socks off if warmth is your preference.

Benchmark DAC1

soundonsound.com

Benchmark's DAC1 delivers exceptional audio quality with its jitter-free conversion, rivaling pricier counterparts. Its standout features include impressive low-level resolution, a powerful headphone amp, and adaptable output levels. Although the volume control could benefit from improved channel tracking at lower levels, this is easily addressed with built-in attenuators. With crystal-clear imaging and dynamic response, it's a must-audition for anyone seeking superior monitoring at an accessible price.

positive

SoundStage! Equipment Review - Benchmark Media Systems DAC1 Digital-to-Analog Converter (8/2004)

soundstagenetwork.com

Benchmark's DAC1 impresses with its clear, accurate sound and feature-rich design, offering dual headphone jacks and a volume control for potential preamp-less setups. It delivers high-resolution audio with startling clarity and a spacious soundstage, rivaling more expensive models despite its unassuming, industrial look. While some may find its sound too precise, it offers excellent value at $975, challenging pricier alternatives. The extensive manual may overwhelm average users, but for its performance, it's a top contender in its class. Perfect for those seeking transparency and detail without breaking the bank.

positive

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