DAC2 HGC

About the DAC2 HGC

The Benchmark Media Systems DAC2 HGC is a versatile HiFi component combining a reference-grade DAC, analog preamplifier, and headphone amplifier. It uses four ESS Sabre 32-bit Reference DAC chips per channel (Sabre9018) in a balanced configuration for superior linearity, dynamic range, and low noise. Key innovations include Hybrid Gain Control (HGC) for precise volume attenuation—analog signals use a motorized potentiometer while digital signals employ 32-bit DSP—and 3.5dB digital headroom to prevent clipping from inter-sample peaks. The UltraLock2 jitter attenuation ensures immunity to interface jitter. It supports high-resolution PCM up to 32-bit/192kHz via USB (asynchronous USB 1.1/2.0), 24-bit/192kHz coaxial, 24-bit/96kHz optical, and native DSD/DoP. Analog inputs pass through purely in the analog domain. Praised for clean, precise sound, impressive detail resolution, and excellent headphone amp performance, it excels in analytical playback but faces competition in musical engagement. Now discontinued, available as factory refurbished or used.