Dac2 Vs. Dac1; New Features; Performance Improvements - Benchmark DAC2 DX Instruction Manual

DAC2 vs. DAC1

The DAC2 series builds upon Benchmark's highly successful DAC1 product family. Every DAC1
subsystem has been redesigned and upgraded to achieve higher performance. The DAC2 includes
an updated version of Benchmark's highly-effective UltraLock™ jitter-attenuation system.

New Features

The DAC2 series introduced new features that add improve the listening experience while
extending the versatility of the product.
The DAC2 series introduced the following features:
· Native DSD conversion
· Asynchronous USB 2.0
· Asynchronous USB 1.1
· Volume-control bypass
· Digital pass-through
· Word-length display
· Sample-rate display
· Bi-directional 12V trigger
· More I/O than DAC1 Series

Performance Improvements

Lower Noise than the DAC1
An array of balanced 32-bit digital-to-analog audio converters are summed together to form each
balanced output channel. The summing reduces noise. The result is that the DAC2 is about 10 dB
quieter than the DAC1. Low-level musical details are faithfully reproduced over a breathtakingly
quiet noise floor.
Lower Distortion than the DAC1
Benchmark's DAC1 converters are known for their very low distortion (THD and IMD). But, the
DAC2 sets new benchmarks for clean and transparent musical reproduction. The DAC2 is designed
to provide the cleanest possible path from digital to analog.
Lower Power Consumption than the DAC1
The DAC2 complies with the latest international environmental regulations and consumes less than
0.5 W when turned off. The unit runs cool while providing substantial power to the headphone and
output drivers. Power can be turned on or off from the front panel, from the remote control, or
from the 12V trigger I/O port.
DAC2 DX Instruction Manual Rev B Page 10