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Benchmark DAC3 HGC – Silver – Stereo Preamp / PCM & DSD DAC / Headphone Amp w/remote

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  • Sample Rate Display
  • Word Length Display
  • Digital Pass Through
  • Native DSD Conversion
  • Home Theater Bypass

$4,599.00

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Introduction to Benchmark DAC3 HGC

Discover the Benchmark DAC3 HGC, the pinnacle of Benchmark’s DAC line, setting new standards in digital-to-analog conversion technology. Built upon the legacy of the acclaimed DAC1 and DAC2, the DAC3 incorporates state-of-the-art features and innovations to deliver unparalleled audio performance for both professionals and audiophiles alike.

Reference Performance and Advanced Technologies

Superior Conversion Quality The DAC3 employs the latest ESS Technologies ES9028PRO converter chip, offering significantly lower Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and THD+N noise compared to its predecessors. This ensures exceptional musical detail and precise stereo imaging, making it a preferred choice in top recording studios and mastering rooms worldwide.

UltraLock3™ Jitter Attenuation Benchmark’s proprietary UltraLock3™ system ensures all inputs are isolated from interface jitter, providing precise clock synchronization and eliminating artifacts that can degrade audio quality. This advanced jitter attenuation system locks with unprecedented speed and accuracy, enhancing clarity and fidelity.

Quad 32-bit Balanced D/A Conversion Featuring a unique 4:1 summation of four balanced 32-bit D/A converters per channel, the DAC3 achieves industry-leading performance with reduced noise and distortion levels. This innovative design elevates signal-to-noise ratios and preserves audio integrity, setting new benchmarks in audio fidelity.

, Benchmark Media Systems DAC3 HGC digital converter

Enhanced Features and Functionality

Advanced Digital Processing The DAC3 boasts a 32-bit digital processing system with 3.5 dB of headroom above 0 dBFS, preventing DSP overloads common in other converters. It supports native PCM up to 192 kHz and native DSD64 conversion, ensuring uncompromised playback quality.

Hybrid Gain Control (HGC) Benchmark’s proprietary HGC system combines active analog gain control, passive low-impedance attenuators, and digital gain control for precise volume management without introducing noise or distortion. This ensures optimal signal purity and dynamic range, enhancing overall listening experience.

Integrated Headphone Power Amplifier (HPA2™) The DAC3 includes Benchmark’s renowned HPA2™ headphone amplifier, delivering high-current, 0-Ohm drive to ensure maximum performance with any headphones. Dual 1/4″ headphone jacks provide versatility without compromising audio quality, making it ideal for critical listening sessions.

Versatile Connectivity and User-Friendly Design

Multi-Mode Asynchronous USB Audio System Supporting USB Audio 2.0 and DSD playback, the DAC3’s USB subsystem features asynchronous communication to minimize jitter and support high-resolution audio formats up to 192 kHz. It offers plug-and-play convenience with MAC systems and includes a driver for seamless integration with Windows.

Comprehensive Connectivity Options The DAC3 includes a range of inputs including coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU, along with digital pass-through capabilities for integration with home theater systems. It features bi-directional 12V trigger functionality for automated control and a home theater bypass mode for seamless integration into multi-channel setups.

, Benchmark Media Systems DAC3 HGC digital converter

Designed for Studio-Quality and Audiophile Environments

Transparent, Studio-Grade Sound Engineered for maximum transparency, the DAC3 faithfully reproduces audio with unparalleled accuracy and neutrality. Unlike competitors that add coloration, the DAC3 ensures a natural, uncolored sound, ideal for critical listening and professional studio monitoring applications.

Optimized Gain Staging Benchmark’s unique passive output attenuators optimize gain staging between the DAC and power amplifiers, preserving musical details and minimizing system noise. This meticulous design approach enhances the dynamic range and fidelity of the entire audio playback chain.

Conclusion: Embrace the Benchmark DAC3 HGC

Step into a new era of audio excellence with the Benchmark DAC3 HGC. Designed to meet the demands of discerning professionals and audiophiles, it combines cutting-edge technology, unparalleled performance, and user-friendly features to deliver a truly immersive listening experience. Discover the natural, uncolored sound of the DAC3 and elevate your audio journey to new heights.

For those seeking uncompromising audio quality and reliability, the Benchmark DAC3 HGC stands as a testament to Benchmark’s commitment to innovation and sonic purity in digital audio reproduction.

SKU: BNMK_500-14800-131 Categories: , , , , , , , , ,
Weight 3.2 kg
Dimensions 23.7 × 24.9 × 4.5 cm
brands

Benchmark

Specifications

Audio Performance
Fs = 44.1 to 96 kHz, 20 to 20 kHz BW, 1 kHz test tone, 0 dBFS = +24 dBu (unless noted)
SNR – A-Weighted, 0 dBFS = +27 dBu 128 dB
SNR – Unweighted, 0 dBFS = +27 dBu 126 dB
THD+N, 1 kHz at 0 dBFS -113 dBFS, -113 dB, 0.00022%
THD+N, 1 kHz at -1 dBFS -114 dBFS, -113 dB, 0.00022%
THD+N, 1 kHz at –3 dBFS -119 dBFS, -116 dB, 0.00016%
THD+N, 20 to 20 kHz test tone at –3 dBFS -113 dBFS, -110 dB, 0.00032%
Frequency Response at Fs=192 kHz
  • +0 dB, -0.015 dB (20 to 20 kHz)
  • -0.015 dB at 10 Hz
  • -0.005 dB at 20 kHz
  • -0.031 dB at 40 kHz
  • -0.15 dB at 80 kHz
Frequency Response at Fs=48 kHz
  • +0 dB, -0.015 dB (20 to 20 kHz)
  • -0.015 dB at 10 Hz
  • -0.005 dB at 20 kHz
Crosstalk
  • -137 dB at 20 Hz
  • -130 dB at 1 kHz
  • -116 dB at 20 kHz
Maximum Amplitude of Jitter Induced Sidebands (10 kHz 0 dBFS test tone, 12.75 UI sinusoidal jitter at 1 kHz) < -144 dB
Maximum Amplitude of Spurious Tones with 0 dBFS test signal < -138 dB
Maximum Amplitude of Idle Tones < -147 dB
Maximum Amplitude of AC line related Hum & Noise < -133 dB
Inter-channel Differential Phase (Stereo Pair – any sample rate) +/- 0.25 degrees at 20 kHz
Inter-channel Differential Phase (Between DAC3 Units Fs<110 kHz) Any sample rate. +/- 0.25 degrees at 20 kHz
Maximum Lock Time after Fs change 6 ms
Soft Mute Ramp Up/Down Time 9.6 ms
Mute on Receive Error Yes
Mute on Lock Error Yes
Mute on Idle Channel No
50/15 us De-Emphasis Enable Automatic in Consumer Mode
De-Emphasis Method Digital IIR
De-Emphasis Supported at Fs = 32, 44.1, 48 kHz

Group Delay (Latency)
Delay – Digital Input to Analog Output (function of sample rate)

 

 

 

 1.36 ms at 44.1 kHz

1.27 ms at 48 kHz

0.90 ms at 88.2 kHz

0.82 ms at 96 kHz

0.51 ms at 176.4 kHz

0.47 ms at 192 kHz

Digital Audio Inputs
Number of Digital Inputs (switch selected) 5 (1 USB, 2 Optical, 2 Coaxial)
Number of Channels 2
Input Sample Frequency Range 28 to 210 kHz (Coaxial Inputs)

28 to 96 kHz (Optical Inputs)

44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz (USB Input)
Maximum Input Word Length 24 bits

 
Digital Input Impedance 75 Ohms (Coaxial Inputs)
DC Blocking Capacitors on Digital Inputs Yes (Coaxial Inputs)
Transient and Over-Voltage Protection on Digital Inputs Yes (Coaxial Inputs)
Minimum Digital Input Level 250 mVpp (Coaxial Inputs)
Jitter Tolerance

(With no Measurable Change in Performance)

 

 >12.75 UI sine, 100 Hz to 3 kHz

>1.5 UI sine at 20 kHz

>1.5 UI sine at 40 kHz

>1.5 UI sine at 80 kHz

>1.5 UI sine at 90 kHz

>0.25 UI sine above 160 kHz
Jitter Attenuation Method Benchmark UltraLock3™ – all inputs

Balanced Analog Outputs
Number of Balanced Analog Outputs 2
Output Connector Gold-Pin Neutrik™ male XLR
Output Impedance 60 Ohms (Attenuator off)

425 Ohms (Attenuator = 10 dB)

135 Ohms (Attenuator = 20 dB)
Analog Output Clip Point +30 dBu
Factory Set Bypass Level (at 0 dBFS) +24 dBu (Attenuator = 0 dB)
Output Level Range (at 0 dBFS) In ‘Variable’ Mode Off to +27.5 dBu (Attenuator off)

Off to +17.5 dBu (Attenuator = 10 dB)

Off to +7.5 dBu (Attenuator = 20 dB)
Output Level Variation with Sample Rate (44.1 kHz vs. 96 kHz) < +/- 0.006 dB

Unbalanced Analog Outputs
Number of Unbalanced Analog Outputs 4
Output Connector RCA
Output Impedance 30 Ohms
Analog Output Clip Point +13.5 dBu (3.7 Vrms)
Factory Set Home Theater Bypass Output Level (at 0 dBFS) +8.2 dBu (2 Vrms)
Output Level Range (with 0 dBFS digital input) Off to +11.7 dBu (3 Vrms)
Output Level Variation with Sample Rate < +/- 0.006 dB

HPA2TM Headphone Outputs
Number of Headphone Outputs 2
Output Connectors ¼” TRS with switch on left-hand jack
Output Impedance < 0.11 Ohms
Output Level Control Stereo Control on Front Panel
Output Level Range (at 0 dBFS) into 60-Ohm Load Off to +21.5 dBu (9.2 Vrms)
Output Power 1.25 W into 30 Ohms
Maximum Output Current 250 mA
Overload Protection (independent per channel) Current limited at 300 mA, Thermal
Bandwidth > 500 kHz, -0.35 dB at 200 kHz
THD+N at 20 mW -108 dB (0.0004%) into 300 Ohms, -100 dB (0.0010%) into 30 Ohms

Status Display
Indicators – Type and Location 16 LED’s on Front Panel
Selection/Status Indication 1 – Dim/Mute

1 – Polarity
6 – Input
2 – Bypass/Calibrated Output
2 – Word length
4 – Sample Rate

AC Power Requirements
Nominal Input Operating Voltage Range (VAC RMS) 100 – 240V
Frequency 50-60 Hz
Power < 0.5 Watts Idle
12 Watts Typical Program
15 Watts Maximum
Fuses 5 x 20 mm (2 required)
0.5 A 250 V Slo-Blo® Type
Min/Max Operating range (VAC RMS) 90 – 260 VAC
47 – 63 Hz

Dimensions
Form Factor ½ Rack Wide, 1 RU High
Depth behind front panel 8.5” (216 mm)
Overall depth including connectors but without power cord 9.33” (237 mm)
Width 9.5” (249 mm)
Height 1.725” (44.5 mm)

Weight
DAC3 only 1.36 Kg.
DAC3 with remote control, power cord, extra fuses, and manual 1.81 Kg.
Shipping weight 3.18 Kg.

Important Features

  • Sample Rate Display
  • Word Length Display
  • 5 Digital Inputs
  • 2 Stereo Analog Inputs (2 RCA)
  • 3 Stereo Analog Outputs (2 RCA, 1 XLR)
  • Digital Pass Through
  • Native DSD Conversion
  • Polarity Switch
  • Asynchronous USB 2.0
  • Home Theater Bypass
  • Bi-Directional 12 Volt Trigger
  • Power Switch
  • Low Power Consumption
  • ES9028PRO Converter

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