DAC3 HGC vs Bel Canto Design DAC 2.8
The DAC 2.8's output impedance is 200Ω against the DAC3 HGC's 10Ω and its weight 6.5 kg (14 lbs) against 1.36 kg (3 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
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About the DAC3 HGC
The Benchmark DAC3 HGC is a professional-grade digital-to-analog converter that delivers outstanding musical detail and precise stereo imaging. It features an advanced high-headroom digital filter design and asynchronous USB Audio interface with Benchmark's UltraLock3 jitter attenuation system to isolate all inputs from interface jitter. The DAC3 employs four balanced 32-bit D/A converters summed together to create each balanced analog output, providing 6 dB noise reduction and industry-leading performance. Internal digital processing is 32-bit with 3.5 dB of headroom above 0 dBFS to prevent DSP overloads. The unique Hybrid Gain Control (HGC) system combines active analog gain control, passive low-impedance attenuators, 32-bit digital gain control, and servo-driven volume control. The DAC3 includes active second and third harmonic compensation, lower THD+N and passband ripple compared to its predecessor, improved frequency response, and faster PLL lock times. It has been recognized as a Stereophile Digital Product of the Year and Editors' Choice Award winner.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 192 kHz
- DAC Chip
- ESS Technologies ES9028PRO 32-bit
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- Output Impedance
- 10Ω
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- Toslink, Coaxial S/PDIF, USB Type B
- Analog Inputs
- RCA
- Analog Outputs
- Balanced XLR
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 241.3 × 43.8 × 236.2 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 1.36 kg (3 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions