Digital Drive: REVIEW: Benchmark DAC 1 DAC Processors by rkeman

Model:	DAC 1
Category:	DAC Processors
Suggested Retail Price:	$995
Description:	Black, with volume control and source switch on the front.
Manufacturer URL:	Benchmark
Model Picture:	View

Review by rkeman ( A ) on July 25, 2004 at 11:20:19
IP Address: 68.110.210.81

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for the DAC 1

The Benchmark DAC-1 is an unusual product worthy of attention by many audiophiles. Consisting of a digital to analog converter, a headphone amplifier, and basic preamplifier, it could easily serve as the basis for a high performance stereo system. Inputs include a BNC coaxial (with RCA adaptor), XLR, and Toslink digital inputs capable of handling 192 kHz/24 bit signals and controlled by a front panel toggle switch selector. Outputs include balanced XLR, RCA, and two 1/4" headphone jacks, and all can be used simultaneously. The line outputs can either be controlled by the front panel volume control or set to a fixed output level by a back panel toggle switch. The fixed level outputs allow adjusting channel balance via two rear panel trim potentiometers. The headphone jacks are always handled through the volume control. Three LEDs on the front panel indicate signal lock, error and non-PCM signals (e.g. Dolby Digital), but are a bit bright.
Build quality is excellent, not at all surprising given Benchmark's background in professional sound gear. The unit comes set for a professional level output and is far to loud for most consumer installations. Internal selectors are provided for up to 30dB of attenuation. Most instances will call for the -20dB setting. It is worth having to remove the cover of the DAC in any event because the circuit board and power supply are quite impressive. The only misgiving for me is the volume potentiometer, a reasonably good detented Alpha unit, but not my first choice in conventional pots. I have noticed reservations regarding the channel balance of the DAC-1 in several professional reviews, but my particular unit tracks to better than +/- 0.2dB at the positions that I checked, and there haven't been any channel imbalance issues in actual listening. The DAC-1 carries a five year warranty and looks as though it would last that long even in an unfriendly environment.
So how does all this sound? The DAC-1 is very revealing and has a vanishingly low noise floor. The tonal balance is neutral and appears to reflect the content of the program and nothing more. Imaging is just about everything that could be asked for with a fine representation of "space" when the recording is capable of it. The analog output section is robust and easily capable of directly driving most any power amplifier. Unless analog sources or remote volume control are needed, dispensing with the preamplifier altogether is possible and probably preferable in most cases. The sound quality of the headphone output is also excellent and comparable to my Grado RA-1. The DAC-1 has performed well with my venerable Theta Data I CD transport, several DVD players, and even a Motorola digital cable box. Before throwing all those Red Book CDs away, have a listen to them with the Benchmark DAC-1 - you may be pleasantly surprised.

Product Weakness: Limited number of inputs, bright front panel LEDs, and lack of a remote control.
Product Strengths: Clean sound, good flexibility, and excellent value.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Ayre V-3
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Sony NS999ES, Theta Data I, Motorola cable converter
Speakers:	SEAS Thor
Cables/Interconnects:	Canare DIY, Vampire wire
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical , Pop
Room Size (LxWxH):	24 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Acoustic tile ceiling
Time Period/Length of Audition:	One month
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Limited number of inputs, bright front panel LEDs, and lack of a remote control.
Product Strengths:	Clean sound, good flexibility, and excellent value.