Benchmark DAC1 - USB Desktop
Until now, special drivers were required for 24-bit word lengths and sample rates above 48-kHz. Benchmark's Advanced USB Audio provides high-resolution,
bit-transparent playback just seconds after plugging into a computer's USB port for the first time. There is no software to install, and there are no system settings that need to be changed. Benchmark's Advanced USB Audio is compatible with Microsoft Windows Vista/XP/2000 and Mac OS X.
The DAC1 is a two-channel, 24-bit, 192-kHz Digital-to-Analog audio converter. The DAC1 is perhaps one of the more significant recent advances in digital audio conversion technology. The DAC1 provides some of the finest analog conversion through 192-kHz and all sample rates playback with a 52-kHz analog bandwidth. The performance of the DAC1 is unrivaled. 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, and it just gets better from there.
Listening to audio from the DAC1 is an amazing experience. The distortion free output is so pristine it truly feels as though someone has finally lifted the curtain! Now you can hear detail that was previously masked by jitter induced artifacts and distortion. If it was an exceptional recording, you’ll hear it, if it wasn’t, you’ll hear that as well.
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 DAC1 takes full advantage of our jitter free UltraLock™ technology. On the test bench, or at the end of 1000’ of cable, the DAC1’s performance is the same! Frankly, we don't think you should have to be a transmission line expert to be a great audio engineer.
Additional features include auto-processing of pre-emphasized digital audio and our latest HPA-2 headphone amplifier technology. 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 is +10 dBu to +29 dBu at 0 dBFS. The DAC1 has built-in international 115/230 volt power.
The DAC1 is essential equipment for mastering studios, high quality recording studios, high-end home audio systems, or anywhere un-colored digital playback is demanded.
* 2-channel, 24bit, 192-kHz D-to-A conversion
* All sample rates playback with a 52-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 @52 kHz, A weighted
* AES/EBU (XLR & Coax) and S/PDIF (XLR, Coax, & 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 Benchmark HPA-2, a 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
* CE Compliant
Inta Audio recommends the Benchmark DAC1 - USB Desktop by Benchmark
The Benchmark DAC1 - USB Desktop offers great value for money, features, build quality and reliability.