Over some years I have searched various forums for subjective evaluation of whether MiniDSP products sound better than DCX2496, which I have been using for 15 years. I have always suspected the analog I/O to be a bottleneck in my system. I use the 2496 to tri-amp my mains and have used a MiniDSP 2x4 to bi-amp my center channel.
Recently I purchased the MiniDSP 8x8 to service both mains and center b/c I needed the ability to program custom biquads. As far as sound quality is concerned there is no comparison, the MiniDSP 8x8 is in a different league than the Behringer, at lest for when you are running analog in and out.
My source is Oppo BDP-105 with ESS 32 bit DACs.
Most reviews that I have read have the MiniDSP comparing favorably with the Behringer DCX2496. I was pleasantly surprised by how much the MiniDSP 8x8 outperformed the Behringer.
The 2496 is cheaper and is very available on the used market. It will be better for live music as it actually has front panel controls and a display. For a home system however, if you can afford the 8x8, don't even consider the Behringer DCX2496.
Recently I purchased the MiniDSP 8x8 to service both mains and center b/c I needed the ability to program custom biquads. As far as sound quality is concerned there is no comparison, the MiniDSP 8x8 is in a different league than the Behringer, at lest for when you are running analog in and out.
My source is Oppo BDP-105 with ESS 32 bit DACs.
Most reviews that I have read have the MiniDSP comparing favorably with the Behringer DCX2496. I was pleasantly surprised by how much the MiniDSP 8x8 outperformed the Behringer.
The 2496 is cheaper and is very available on the used market. It will be better for live music as it actually has front panel controls and a display. For a home system however, if you can afford the 8x8, don't even consider the Behringer DCX2496.