Benchmark USA
Benchmark DAC2 HGC
Best transparent audio hub for discerning audiophiles.
The Benchmark DAC2 HGC is a high-performance digital-to-analog converter that builds upon the legendary status of its predecessor, the DAC1. It offers superior noise and distortion performance, setting a new reference standard. Featuring advanced technologies like UltraLock2™ jitter attenuation and a high-headroom DSP system with 3.5 dB of excess digital headroom, the DAC2 ensures pristine audio reproduction. It supports native DSD conversion and offers direct connectivity to power amplifiers, optimizing gain staging for improved system performance. The Hybrid Gain Control (HGC) system provides precise volume control without compromising audio quality. This converter is ideal for both professional studio monitoring and discerning audiophile systems, delivering a transparent and uncolored sound.
$1795.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
369
/ 663
#369 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-59%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles and critical listeners seeking uncolored, high-resolution audio.
- Users with multiple audio devices needing a central, high-performance hub.
- Headphone enthusiasts desiring a reference-grade amplifier for their premium cans.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious consumers or those new to high-fidelity audio.
- Consumers prioritizing sleek design or a "hi-fi jewelry" aesthetic.
- Listeners primarily using compressed audio or less resolving playback equipment.
Performance breakdown
Jitter Attenuation
UltraLock2 technology virtually eliminates timing errors for a pristine digital signal.
Signal Transparency
Delivers an uncolored, clinical sound that reveals every detail of recordings.
Volume Precision
Hybrid Gain Control maintains perfect audio integrity at any volume level.
Format Versatility
Seamlessly handles both high-resolution PCM and native DSD audio files.
System Integration
Direct power amplifier connectivity simplifies signal paths for cleaner output.
Digital Headroom
Extra DSP headroom prevents clipping during complex, high-dynamic-range musical passages.
Key Specs
Hybrid Gain Control
High-Headroom DSP with 3.5 dB "Excess" Digital Headroom
UltraLock2™ Jitter Attenuation System
Quad 32-bit balanced D/A Conversion System
Multi-Mode Asynchronous USB Audio System
Distributed Power Regulation
Supports native PCM or DSD conversion
Adjustable low-impedance passive attenuators at XLR outputs
Features
- Reference-quality D/A conversion
- Native DSD and PCM conversion
- UltraLock2™ jitter attenuation
- High-headroom DSP
- Direct drive power amplifiers
- Hybrid Gain Control system
- Asynchronous USB Audio 2.0
- Includes remote control
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Benchmark DAC2 HGC for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as transparent and neutral, revealing intricate details in music. Many highlight its robust build and long term reliability, appreciating the solid construction and dependable performance. The integrated preamplifier and headphone output are frequently cited as valuable features, enhancing its versatility. Users feel confident in its ability to deliver a high fidelity audio experience without coloration, making it a cornerstone of their audio setups. Its ease of integration into existing systems is also a recurring positive point.
Know before you buy
Yes, the DAC2 HGC is designed to function as a high-quality preamp. Its Hybrid Gain Control system allows you to connect it directly to power amplifiers while maintaining optimal gain staging and audio integrity.
Yes, the DAC2 HGC supports native DSD conversion alongside high-resolution PCM playback, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of digital audio formats.
UltraLock2 technology virtually eliminates jitter-induced distortion and noise, keeping it at least 140 dB below the music level. This ensures that your digital audio remains clean and transparent regardless of the source quality.
The DAC2 HGC features a driverless USB Audio 1.1 mode for sample rates up to 96 kHz. For higher resolution playback up to 192 kHz and native DSD, you will need to utilize the Asynchronous USB Audio 2.0 mode.
This extra headroom prevents digital clipping during internal DSP processing. It ensures that even complex audio signals are handled without distortion, maintaining the transparency of your music.
Absolutely. The DAC2 HGC is engineered for both professional studio environments and high-end home audio systems, providing the neutral, uncolored sound required for critical listening.
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