[jchabalk]

I'm looking for an updated setup and some functionality changes.
 
For the last 10 years or so i've been using a Motu Ultralite mk3 (firewire version) running in to a pair of active monitors via a Mackie mixing board.
 
I want to pare my setup down, remove the mixer, and get a better headphone amp in to the mix. 
 
I haven't made any decisions yet and am looking for some feedback or recommendations
 
Source Material (Inputs):

1. iMac Computer (majority of my listening comes from the computer)
2. Phono PreAmp (vinyl, ~10% of the time)
3. 1/8" line in (from my phone or something else ~5% of the time)

 
Outputs:

1. Grado GS1k
2. JBL Powered Monitors (currently connected through the Mackie mixer)

 
I use the mic inputs on the Motu very infrequently. I'm also looking at audio interfaces that have mic preamps, i welcome recommendations for them too - my priority is listening.
 
The devices i'm considering and want to listen to are:

1. Benchmark DAC3 HGC
   1. This seems to be the most complete unit to meet my needs especially given the integrated pre-amp
   2. It just came out, which is good and bad i guess. I don't see nearly as much forum talk about Benchmark as I do about Schiit.
   3. Sounds like a great integrated unit - at least the DAC1 and 2 were based on reviews. Initial impressions of the DAC3 make it sound like another win from Benchmark.
2. Schiit (Ordered by price)
   1. Mjolnir 2 + Gungnir
      1. ~Same price point as the Benchmark
      2. I'd need a pre-amp in addition
      3. This sounds like a pretty killer setup from the reading i've been doing
   2. Jotunheim
      1. I'll need to add a preamp
      2. how does the Jotunheim compare with the Benchmark
   3. Bifrost + Lyr2
   4. Magni 2 + Modi

 
The Benchmark / Mjolnir+Gungnir is probably the top of my budget. I'm generally ok with that range but don't want to exceed it. Is there anything else I should be seriously considering? 

 

[JoHit]

Have you looked into the DM Source or it's bigger brother the Convert-2?

I have the DM Source hooked up to a pair of KH120As and HD 600s. There was some blind testing done between the Source and Benchmark DAC2 in 2013 here at head-fi; they sounded identical. The independent volume pots (not stepped) for the speakers and headphones are a nice touch too.

 

[jchabalk]

thanks a lot, i wasn't familiar with those, i'll check them out.