The DAC1 USB has been discontinued. This model has been replaced by the DAC2 Series D/A converters. The DAC2 series has higher performance and many more features.
Buy a Factory Refurbished DAC1 USB exclusively on our website!
This model was originally replaced by the DAC1 HDR. The DAC1 HDR provides all of the functions of the DAC1 USB but adds remote control, analog inputs, an extra digital input, and a motorized volume control. The performance of the two units is identical. The entire DAC1 series has now been replaced by the DAC2 series.
The DAC1 USB (USB DAC) is a reference-quality, 2-channel 192-kHz 24-bit digital-to-analog audio converter featuring Benchmark's Advanced USB Audio™ technology, UltraLock™ clock system, and HPA2™ headphone power amplifier.
The DAC1 USB preserves the exact topology of the audio path in the classic DAC1, while adding some of the most frequently requested features.
Benchmark's award-winning DAC1 has become a standard in the finest recording studios and mastering rooms. Audio engineers rely of the accurate, uncolored, and precise sound of Benchmark DAC1 converters. The DAC1 is free from digital artifacts and its analog sound eliminates the fatigue that is caused by many digital devices. Audiophiles have also discovered the smooth and detailed sound of the DAC1, and it has become a centerpiece in may home listening rooms.
The USB interface of the DAC1 USB features Benchmark's unique AdvancedUSB technology. This USB interface is completely bit-transparent. In other words, every sample of digital audio is transferred from the computer to the DAC1 USB without modification. The DAC1 USB is natively compatible with Windows 7/Vista/XP/2000 and Mac OS X. As a native device, there are no drivers or other invasive software required to install or configure. The DAC1 USB is a true plug-and-play DAC USB, and is designed to begin playback immediately after the unit is connected to a USB port for the first time.
The DAC1 USB features the HPA2™ - Benchmark's signature high-current, 0-Ohm headphone power amplifier. The HPA2™ is arguably the ultimate reference headphone power amplifier. It will deliver the full rated performance of the DAC1 USB to the headphones. The HPA2™ maintains less than 0.0003% THD+N under full load. The DAC1 USB has two 1/4" headphone jacks on the front panel. The performance of the HPA2™ remains consistent even when two headphones are being driven simultaneously.