ReplacingMy Benchmark DAC2 HGC

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zenpmd

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Joined 2013
#1
Hi All

I recently built from Ncores and use them with the Benchmark DAC. I would now like to create some form of DIY DAC. I only need a USB input and volume control. I need it to perform as well as the Benchmark, or close to. Does anyone have any advice?

Thanks 🙂
 
#2
The ODAC was designed and built in direct comparison with the DAC1, NwAvGuy: ODAC Released

No volume control on that though.

It might help others with suggestions if you can talk more about what you expect in terms of THD, bitrates, DSD, outputs, budget, level of comfort with soldering small-pitch SMD, your specific use-case (guessing PC-based media player), etc 🙂
 
#4
Given the Benchmark is one of the best measuring DACs out there, subjectively there is little to touch it. How far below the levels of inaudability it is however, is an argument that will run and run. Personally I'd stick with what you have and build something else, but that is just my view.
 
#6
Thanks for your thoughts everyone. To answer specific questions:

I use Roon.

Not great with solder, I found making the Ncores slightly tricky and that was basic!

I basically want a solid dac thats all. The Benchmark is really annoying - pops when it turns off, flashing lights that dont go away if source is turned off, etc
 
#10
I understand being annoyed with the lights, although the Benchmark is so good that I personally would live with that if I could justify the unit (sadly I can't). It's normal good practice to turn off power amps first for this very reason.

Doing a bit of checking the DAC2 has a 12v trigger on it so you should be able to set that up to turn the ncores on and off thus avoiding the pops. I say should as ISTR the ncores are inverted to normal trigger operation so will need a teeny bit of fettling to work.

but if the lights annoy you this wont make you love it 🙂
 
#11
billshurv said:
I understand being annoyed with the lights, although the Benchmark is so good that I personally would live with that if I could justify the unit (sadly I can't). It's normal good practice to turn off power amps first for this very reason.

Doing a bit of checking the DAC2 has a 12v trigger on it so you should be able to set that up to turn the ncores on and off thus avoiding the pops. I say should as ISTR the ncores are inverted to normal trigger operation so will need a teeny bit of fettling to work.

but if the lights annoy you this wont make you love it 🙂
Click to expand...

The problem is, I miss the haptic experience of certain other units. A Mcintosh volume control...a nice on and off switch. To be honest with you I'd love just a simple class D integrated.
 
#12
Fairy nuff. I'm a weirdo who wants neutral so for me the benchmark would tick all boxes. But with the ncores you have arguably the most neutral source and amplification chain you can get. So at least enjoy that whilst you have it. Better to have loved and lost etc.

Good luck with the search for a replacement. Sadly I can't help you on recommending that.
 
#13
billshurv said:
Fairy nuff. I'm a weirdo who wants neutral so for me the benchmark would tick all boxes. But with the ncores you have arguably the most neutral source and amplification chain you can get. So at least enjoy that whilst you have it. Better to have loved and lost etc.

Good luck with the search for a replacement. Sadly I can't help you on recommending that.
Click to expand...
Yes, neutral is good. Its crazy that people buy off neutral then try and match things together in strange ways. Just justifies the money spending I think.

I also use Anthony Gallo Strada 2 which are right down the middle too 🙂
 
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