Benchmark DAC-1: The all-in-one solution?

[hella]

Here's what I'm wondering:

Right now I've got a laptop, a Sonica, and a pair of DT-531s and I'm looking to fill out the middle source/amp section of my system. From what I've been reading it seems like I can go one of two ways

1) Cheap or DIY Dac (AOS Piccolo etc.)
2) Jitter reducer (Monarchy DIP Classic etc.)
3) Headphone amp (PPA, Headsave Classic, etc.)

OR

just a Benchmark DAC-1


For those of you who have or have hear the Benchmark DAC-1 do you find it to be a suitable replacement for both a jitter reducer and a mid-fi headphone amp? At the same price point (roughly 800-975 depending upon price of a used DAC-1) is it better to go the separate components route or the all-in-one route? Basically, how does the headphone section of the DAC-1 stack up against some of the more popular mid-fi headphone amps around here?

Thanks

 

[ampgalore]

DT531 would not do justice to the Benchmark DAC1.

Replace the weakest link in your setup.

 

[hella]

Ampgalore - Dude, I've only had these phones for two days so they're not going anywhere in the near future. Besides, I really like them. Anyhow, I'm going to upgrade my cans eventually but right now I'm trying to join team Source First.

 

[Iron_Dreamer]

Well, I compared the headphone section of the DAC1 with my former Gilmore dynamic, and heard basically no differences. I think the headphone amp section is a very good example of a solid-state headphone amp, and would only be bettered by tubes or the highest-end solid-state amps. It is likely comparable to a PPA or similar high-end SS amp.

Your system would be infinitely more simple by going with the DAC1, since you'd not have multiple digital cables, nor analog interconnects, nor multiple power cables, etc. Much more practical for use with a laptop. Unless you went for the different sound of non-OS/US DAC's, I think you'd have to put together a pretty high-end DIY DAC to compete seriously with the DAC1.

I somewhat agree with ampgalore, in that the DAC1 has more potential to sound good than the DT531 can achieve, however, the DT531/DAC1 combo is what I'm listening to right now and it's damned nice. The DT531 definitely benefits from a great source like this, it just can't take as much advantage of it as the really high-end cans. The DT531 excels at managing to sound good with lesser quality sources where the high-enders might not, however the DAC1 is definitely the kinds of source powerful enough to show their limitations, FWIW.

 

[Zoide]

But wouldn't you say that the DAC1 is pretty bright? I've never listened to it, but I'm referring to how you used to love the CD3Ks but had to part with them b/c they were to bright in conjunction with the DAC1.

 

[ampgalore]

People often equate neutrality with being bright.

I guess that's where the problem lies. People are used to gear that recess the mids and the highs.

 

[tiberian]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ampgalore People often equate neutrality with being bright. I guess that's where the problem lies. People are used to gear that recess the mids and the highs.

too much highs takes away most of the fun and hurts my ear badly...

 

[Ferbose]

I generally opt for simplicity. The fewer pieces of gears to worry about, the more time to listen to music.

Benchmark DAC1 can also serve as the cornerstone of a hi-end speaker system in the future. Stereo PCM is likely to remain as a digital standard for years to come, so a good DAC will definitely find plenty of use. The build quality looks and feels excellent, inside and out. I expect my own unit to last for years to come. According to Benchmark company, the volume control is supposed to be hi quality, so DAC1 may serve as a pre-amp, which is great for building a speaker system.

 

[Zoide]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ampgalore People often equate neutrality with being bright. I guess that's where the problem lies. People are used to gear that recess the mids and the highs.

I thought it went along the lines of "People often equate detail with being bright."

 

[hella]

Iron Dreamer - I hadn't even begun to consider the added complexity of multiple analog and digital interconnects. Good call on that. Now that I think I about it, I also remember the Benchmark rep saying that fancy power cables and conditioners are unnecessary so that's one less thing to worry about.

I'm surprised that you speak so highly of the headphone section. I had no idea it was so good. The way you describe it makes it seem like I wouldn't even be able to afford a headphone amp that could best the DAC1.

Good to know that you're liking the DT-531 DAC1 combo. I'm intrigued by the fact that you ditched your CD3000s because of the DAC1. I guess no one has established synergy with the DAC1 yet. I wonder what you'll think of the 650s once they arrive.


Ferbose - You read my mind. I was hoping to use the DAC1 as the first step towards a decent integrated/speaker system. P.S. My wallet hates you.

 

[ampgalore]

What kind of potentiometer is used in the DAC1? The casing is too small to fit the blue velvet potentiometer.

 

[lojay]

Nice review, though it was something we kind of expected from your previous comments.

I've got to thank all of you. Before all I wanted was an upgrade, though somehow I was appalled (a lot of us who bought the E-MU's were) when Iron_dreamer announced that it wasn't the best he's heard anymore. But after weeks more of really listening to the music itself, I've become quite happy with my E-MU; it truely brings quality to the music I listen to, and I just can't use PCDP's anymore.

I still think I'm hearing places where it lacks the dynamics or speed, esp. on stuff like Van Halen or Dream Theatre (another recommendation of yours!). But I don't listen to a lot of rock, so I don't suppose I'll care that much. It doesn't iritate me at least.


I can't wait to hear the DAC 1, but I suppose it's just not fair to my wallet and my parents if I want to upgrade again. No buyer's remorse here!

 

[ampgalore]

I own the Benchmark, Grace, and the HR-2. Let's just say the headphone amp section of the Benchmark is a noticeable notch below the Grace and the HR-2.

 

[Zoide]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ampgalore I own the Benchmark, Grace, and the HR-2. Let's just say the headphone amp section of the Benchmark is a noticeable notch below the Grace and the HR-2.

How much of a notch? How does it compare to a PPA (assuming you've listened to one

)?

 

[ampgalore]

A maxed out PPA still sounds more refined compared to the headphone amp section of the Benchmark.

I am using the Benchmark solely as a DAC, not as a headphone amp.