The DAC1 PRE is a reference-quality, two-channel 192kHz, 24-bit audio digital-to-analog converter, featuring Benchmark's UltraLock technology. The converter is designed for maximum transparency and is well suited for critical playback in studio control rooms and in mastering rooms. The compact and rugged enclosure makes the unit an excellent choice for location recording, broadcast facilities and mobile trucks. With six stereo inputs and four stereo analog outputs, the DAC1 PRE anchors expansive media systems and provides a pristine audio path from source to amplifier.
The unit features the exact same topography as the original DAC1 and the DAC1 USB. The USB input provides bit-transparent native 24-bit/96kHz capability, along with a programmable mute function. Also included is the automatic standby/resume feature and the headphone output programmable gain range. The analog inputs can be used for devices such as FM tuners, tape transports, analog VCR outputs, iPod and MP3 devices, or outputs from analog mixing consoles. An internal power supply supports all international voltages and has generous margins for over and under voltage conditions.
Note! This item has a universal power supply, but only includes an AC power cord for 110V use.
| ADC | Not Applicable |
| DAC | 24-bit |
| Sample Rates |
28 to 195kHz (coaxial, XLR, optical) 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz (USB) |
| Analog In | 1 x RCA phono |
| Analog Outputs |
2 x XLR 2 x RCA phono 2 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone |
| Digital Input Connectors |
3 x RCA coaxial S/PDIF 1 x TosLink optical 1 x USB 1.1 |
| Digital Output Connectors | Not Applicable |
| Word Clock | No |
| Dynamic Range | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Frequency Response | -2.5dB at 45kHz, Fs=96kHz |
| THD + N | -105dB (0.00056%) - 1kHz at 0dBFS |
| Dimensions | 9.5 x 8.5 x 1.73" (241 x 216 x 44mm) |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs (1.6kg) |
| Specialties | Wide AC-voltage operating range with international voltage select |
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Comments about Benchmark DAC1 PRE - DAC with Stereo Preamp (110V, Silver):
I use the Benchmark DAC-1 Pre in a professional recording studio to listen to music from a laptop either patched into the patchbay, or directly to the main monitors for the cleanest signal path.
It also works great as a standalone headphone amp for roadtrips when you do not want to listen to the terrible built-in DAC and audio amp of a laptop.
It easily conforms to the professional world or consumer world, sounds spectacular, and doesn't cost anywhere near as much as it should, given the quality of the build and sound. Great device!
The Swiss-Army knife of 2-channel DACs.
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