DAC1 vs Musical Fidelity X-DAC v3
The X-DAC v3's signal-to-noise is 121 dB against the DAC1's 116 dB and its thd 0.002% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Benchmark DAC1 is a compact, high-performance DAC featuring Analog Devices AD1853 DACs operating at a 110kHz internal sampling rate via AD1896 sample-rate converter. It supports digital inputs up to 24-bit/192kHz and includes dual headphone jacks, volume control, and both single-ended RCA and balanced XLR outputs. Renowned for its exceptional resolution, accuracy, low jitter via proprietary UltraLock clocking, and transparency, it set a benchmark in affordable high-end audio upon release. Discontinued and replaced by DAC2 series.
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Components that show up alongside the DAC1 in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The X-DAC v3's signal-to-noise is 121 dB against the DAC1's 116 dB and its thd 0.002% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The dac25.2's signal-to-noise is 123 dB against the DAC1's 116 dB. Both share bit depth (24-bit), max sample rate (192 kHz), and thd (0.001%).
The Bifrost 2's signal-to-noise is 114 dB against the DAC1's 116 dB and its thd 0.003% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The M1's signal-to-noise is 119 dB against the DAC1's 116 dB and its thd 0.003% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
Cambridge Audio Azur 840C
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