Benchmark DAC1 $995
Two-channel reference D/A converter w/defeatable level control
Available in black or silver finish
Benchmark DAC1 also avilable in black finish with rack ears

Benchmark DAC1 USB - $1295
The DAC1 USB includes a very unique USB input with bit-transparent native 96/24 capability, a programmable mute function, programmable headphone gain range, an automatic standby/resume feature, and a high-current output stage designed to drive long cables or low-impedance loads, such as high-end power-amplifiers. The DAC1 USB looks sounds and measures the same as the DAC1 with added benefits of convenience, flexibility, and performance.

Benchmark DAC1 USB PRE- $1595
The DAC1 PRE is a reference-quality stereo pre-amplifier, headphone amplifier, and computer audio playback device, incorporating the 24-bit, 192-kHz DAC1 digital-to-analog conversion system. With the DAC1 PRE, the music engages the listener with a stunning delivery and breath-taking realism.

The DAC1 PRE is the culmination of years of high-precision analog and digital audio circuit design. Benchmark has achieved unprecedented sonic purity in their audio systems through an intelligent engineering philosophy - establish a pristine analog delivery path and eliminate digital distortion artifacts. The DAC1 PRE continues this tradition of excellence.

With six stereo inputs and four stereo analog outputs, the DAC1 PRE anchors expansive media systems and provides a pristine audio path from source to amplifier. The six stereo inputs include an analog input, a USB computer input, an optical input, and three coaxial digital inputs. The output section includes stereo XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced, and two headphone jacks driven by Benchmark's HPA2™ 0-ohm headphone amplifier.

Benchmark ADC1 - $1595
Two-channel A/D Converter
Available in black or silver

Benchmark ADC1 USB - $1795
Two-channel A/D Converter with USB connectivity
Available in black or silver

Benchmark PRE420 - $2795
Four-channel mic-pre/mixer
Available in black or silver

Benchmark DAC1 Front Panel Benchmark DAC1 Back Panel

Benchmark DAC1 features & specifactions: 2-channel, 24bit, 192-kHz D-to-A conversion192-kHz playback with 55 kHz analog bandwidth THD+N = -106 dB (0.0005%) measured at -0 dBFS, any sample rate, any test frequency, with any degree of input jitter 116 dB signal-to-noise ratio @48 kHz, A weighted AES/EBU (XLR & Coax) and S/PDIF (XLR, Coax, RCA & Toslink) inputs Digital input source-selection switch Balanced, low-Z XLR outputs +29 dBu output level capability Unbalanced RCA outputs Variable or preset output level controls, switch selectable Direct connection to powered monitors Built-in HPA-2 high-output, ultra-clean headphone amplifier with dual outputs jacks Total jitter immunity via UltraLock™ technology Phase Accurate D-to-A conversion across any number of channels 1 power, 2 error indicating LEDs Internal low-radiation toroidal power supply International 115-230 input voltage range Automatic De-emphasis for 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz when Pre-emphasis bit is set Milled aluminum front panel 1/2 wide, 1RU chassis Rack mount kit available 5 year warranty!

The Benchmark DAC1 is an essential component for mastering studios, recording studios and audiophiles. It is a two-channel, 24-bit, 192-kHz digital-to-analog audio converter.  It provides some of the finest analog conversion through 96-kHz, and will play back 192-kHz with a 55-kHz analog bandwidth. THD+N is an astonishing low -106 dB (0.0005%) measured at 0 dBFS, at any playback frequency, at any sample rate, with any degree of input jitter.

Many DACs derive their system clock directly from the AES receiver, making them very susceptible to jitter. These DACs can rarely achieve their rated performance in real world applications. By contrast, the Benchmark DAC1 takes full advantage of jitter-free UltraLock™ technology. Hear detail that was previously masked by jitter-induced artifacts and distortion.

Additional features of the Benchmark Media Systems DAC-1 include auto-processing of pre-emphasized digital audio and the superb HPA-2 headphone amplifier. This technology features distortion levels of 0.0003% under load. The audio output levels may be controlled from the front panel by the same gain control that feeds the headphone amplifier or it may be preset to a precise level with multi-turn trims. The preset gain range of the DAC 1 is +10 dBu to +29 dBu at 0 dBFS.

Audiophiles!  Use the Benchmark DAC1 to replace your preamp and D/A converter!  The DAC1 is also available in a silver finish without rack ears at the same price of $975.

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