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Benchmark Media DAC1 HDR 2-CH Pre W/ 24/192 D/A & Remote Black
This product is no longer available.
FEATURES:
• IR remote control with adjustable Dim and Soft-Mute
• High-Dynamic Range Volume Control w/ custom-built, motor-driven Alps volume pot
• Six Stereo Inputs: Analog RCA, USB, TOSLINK optical, and three digital coaxial
• Utilizes 24-bit, 192-kHz DAC1 D/A conversion system
• Benchmarks phase-accurate UltraLock technology provides total jitter immunity
• AdvancedUSB computer audio interface for native 24-bit / 96-kHz USB audio
• Compatible with Windows Vista / XP / 2000 and Mac OS X without driver installation
• State-of-the-art LM4562 high-current, low-distortion opamps in critical analog circuits
• Stereo outputs: XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced, HPA2 headphone jacks
• Built-in HPA2 headphone amplifier, 0-Ohm, high-output, two output jacks
• Selectable gain-range headphone amplifier to match headphone sensitivity
• Left-most headphone jack mutes XLR and RCA outputs (this feature is defeatable)
• On/Off button and rotary source selector
• Calibrated/Variable switch determines gain control for main analog outputs
• Internal trim-pots control gain of XLR and RCA outputs (in Calibrated mode)
• Selectable, low-impedance attenuators (0, 10, 20, or 30 db) on XLR outputs
• Front-panel LEDs display input and status
• Low radiation toroidal power transformer significantly reduces hum and line-related interference
DAC1 HDR Back
Back View
PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS:
• Digital Input Sample Rate Range: 28 to 195 kHz
• THD+N: -107 dB, 0.00045% (w/ -3 dBFS input)
• SNR - A-Weighted: 116 dB (w/ 0 dBFS = +20 to +29 dBu)
• Maximum Amplitude of Jitter-Induced Sidebands (10 kHz at 0 dBFS test tone, 12.75 UI sinusoidal jitter at 1 kHz): < -141 dB
• Maximum Amplitude of AC line-related hum & noise: < -126 dB
• Headphone amplifier output impedance: 0.01 Ohms
• Headphone amplifier output-level range (at 0 dBFS into 60-Ohms load): Off-to-+21 dBu
• Headphone amplifier THD+N: -107 dB, 0.00045% (w/ -3 dBFS input)
DAC1 HDR - Let the Music Engage You!
The DAC1 HDR is an all-in-one reference-quality stereo pre-amplifier. This stereo pre-amp brings together all the best features and performance of the award-winning DAC1 family with the convenience of an intelligent remote control solution. The DAC1 HDR combines some of Benchmarks finest engineering accomplishments into one device: the DAC1 digital-to-analog audio converter with UltraLock clock system, AdvancedUSB computer audio playback interface, and the legendary HPA2 headphone amplifier. The unique remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR is built around Benchmarks new HDR-VC (high dynamic-range volume control).
Benchmarks product designs have achieved unprecedented sonic purity due to an uncompromising engineering philosophy: eliminate digital distortion artifacts, establish a pristine analog path, and maintain sonic integrity regardless of external factors. The DAC1 HDR continues this tradition of excellence.
The remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR has an intelligent implementation of dimming and muting. The Dim (quiet) and Soft-Mute settings of the remote control can be easily adjusted independent of the normal volume setting. The DAC1 HDR remembers and recalls your specified Dim setting. This feature is ideal for HDTV users, as it allows you to set your preferred "dim" level for commercials, etc. The "soft-mute" function fades down the volume to the "dim" level before muting and smoothly raises the volume to the normal level after un-muting.
With a generous offering of inputs and outputs, the DAC1 HDR serves as the heart of expansive media and entertainment systems, optimizing the signal path from the various sources to the amplifier. The DAC1 HDR will enhance the audio performance of your digital television, digital cable box, DVD/CD player, computer, music/media server, satellite radio, and any other device with a digital audio output. Also, the HDR-VC will control the pristine path for an analog source, such as a phono stage, FM tuner, iPod, VCR, tape deck, etc.
All digital inputs on the DAC1 HDR (including the USB) feature Benchmarks jitter-immune UltraLock clock system. The USB interface operates with Benchmarks AdvancedUSB native 24-bit, 96-kHz USB technology. The DAC1 HDR features a high-current output stage designed to drive even the most difficult loads. Other features include selectable headphone gain ranges and an auto-mute function for muting the main outputs when headphones are being used.
HDR-VC High Dynamic Range Volume Control
The DAC1 HDR features Benchmarks HDR-VC (High Dynamic Range Volume Control). The HDR-VC is achieved with a custom-built motorized Alps potentiometer. The DAC1 HDRs motor-driven volume control maintains the dynamic range of the converter and the audio ouput in contrast. Digital volume controls reduce dynamic range, and analog volume ICs introduce distortion and noise.
The acclaimed DAC1 D-to-A conversion system
Recording studios, mastering engineers and audiophiles have grown to rely on Benchmark for critical digital audio conversion for more than 10 years. The superior performance of the award-winning DAC1 has made it the Benchmark of D-to-A converters. With the DAC1 HDR, this built-in state-of-the-art converter will improve the sonic performance of your digital audio sources, including your computer.
Jitter-Immune UltraLock Clock System
Benchmarks proprietary UltraLock clock system achieves an unprecedented immunity to jitter. Many modern (and expensive) converters suffer from significant jitter-induced distortion, generating non-musical sideband tones and digital distortion. Benchmarks highly-regarded UltraLock clock system ensures that jitter is never a problem, even under extreme conditions.
Even in the presence of extremely high input jitter, no jitter-induced artifacts can be detected on the outputs of the DAC1 HDR (using state-of-the-art testing equipment by Audio Precision). UltraLock will block more then 12.5 UI of jitter (at 1 kHz). The UltraLock clock system easily outperforms even the best-designed two-stage PLL designs.
The bottom line is this: Benchmark converters will consistently and faithfully deliver truthful audio without jitter-induced artifacts, no matter what variables are present.
AdvancedUSB Audio Technology
The USB interface of the DAC1 HDR operates with Benchmarks unique AdvancedUSB technology. Unlike many USB-equipped D/A converters, Benchmarks AdvancedUSB technology supports 24-bit audio at sample rates up to 96 kHz without the installation of any drivers or other special software. Benchmarks UltraLock clock system isolates the converter from the high levels of jitter that are found on USB interfaces. The DAC1 HDR achieves transparent, audiophile-quality playback through a true plug-and-play solution.
Audio streamed via USB is subject to significant amounts of jitter. The AdvancedUSB interface utilizes the UltraLock clock system. Consequently, the performance of the USB input is equal to the performance of the other inputs, regardless of the jitter present.
The DAC1 HDR is natively compatible with Windows Vista / XP / 2000 and Mac OS X. As a native device, there are no drivers or other software required to install or configure.
HPA2 Headphone Amplifier
The DAC1 HDR includes the HPA2 Benchmarks signature high-current, 0-Ohm headphone amplifier. The HPA2 is the ultimate reference headphone amplifier. It will deliver the full-rated performance of the DAC1 to the headphones. The HPA2 maintains less than 0.0003% THD+N under a full load from two sets of headphones. The DAC1 HDR has two 1/4 headphone jacks on the front panel.
• IR remote control with adjustable Dim and Soft-Mute
• High-Dynamic Range Volume Control w/ custom-built, motor-driven Alps volume pot
• Six Stereo Inputs: Analog RCA, USB, TOSLINK optical, and three digital coaxial
• Utilizes 24-bit, 192-kHz DAC1 D/A conversion system
• Benchmarks phase-accurate UltraLock technology provides total jitter immunity
• AdvancedUSB computer audio interface for native 24-bit / 96-kHz USB audio
• Compatible with Windows Vista / XP / 2000 and Mac OS X without driver installation
• State-of-the-art LM4562 high-current, low-distortion opamps in critical analog circuits
• Stereo outputs: XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced, HPA2 headphone jacks
• Built-in HPA2 headphone amplifier, 0-Ohm, high-output, two output jacks
• Selectable gain-range headphone amplifier to match headphone sensitivity
• Left-most headphone jack mutes XLR and RCA outputs (this feature is defeatable)
• On/Off button and rotary source selector
• Calibrated/Variable switch determines gain control for main analog outputs
• Internal trim-pots control gain of XLR and RCA outputs (in Calibrated mode)
• Selectable, low-impedance attenuators (0, 10, 20, or 30 db) on XLR outputs
• Front-panel LEDs display input and status
• Low radiation toroidal power transformer significantly reduces hum and line-related interference
DAC1 HDR Back
Back View
PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS:
• Digital Input Sample Rate Range: 28 to 195 kHz
• THD+N: -107 dB, 0.00045% (w/ -3 dBFS input)
• SNR - A-Weighted: 116 dB (w/ 0 dBFS = +20 to +29 dBu)
• Maximum Amplitude of Jitter-Induced Sidebands (10 kHz at 0 dBFS test tone, 12.75 UI sinusoidal jitter at 1 kHz): < -141 dB
• Maximum Amplitude of AC line-related hum & noise: < -126 dB
• Headphone amplifier output impedance: 0.01 Ohms
• Headphone amplifier output-level range (at 0 dBFS into 60-Ohms load): Off-to-+21 dBu
• Headphone amplifier THD+N: -107 dB, 0.00045% (w/ -3 dBFS input)
DAC1 HDR - Let the Music Engage You!
The DAC1 HDR is an all-in-one reference-quality stereo pre-amplifier. This stereo pre-amp brings together all the best features and performance of the award-winning DAC1 family with the convenience of an intelligent remote control solution. The DAC1 HDR combines some of Benchmarks finest engineering accomplishments into one device: the DAC1 digital-to-analog audio converter with UltraLock clock system, AdvancedUSB computer audio playback interface, and the legendary HPA2 headphone amplifier. The unique remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR is built around Benchmarks new HDR-VC (high dynamic-range volume control).
Benchmarks product designs have achieved unprecedented sonic purity due to an uncompromising engineering philosophy: eliminate digital distortion artifacts, establish a pristine analog path, and maintain sonic integrity regardless of external factors. The DAC1 HDR continues this tradition of excellence.
The remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR has an intelligent implementation of dimming and muting. The Dim (quiet) and Soft-Mute settings of the remote control can be easily adjusted independent of the normal volume setting. The DAC1 HDR remembers and recalls your specified Dim setting. This feature is ideal for HDTV users, as it allows you to set your preferred "dim" level for commercials, etc. The "soft-mute" function fades down the volume to the "dim" level before muting and smoothly raises the volume to the normal level after un-muting.
With a generous offering of inputs and outputs, the DAC1 HDR serves as the heart of expansive media and entertainment systems, optimizing the signal path from the various sources to the amplifier. The DAC1 HDR will enhance the audio performance of your digital television, digital cable box, DVD/CD player, computer, music/media server, satellite radio, and any other device with a digital audio output. Also, the HDR-VC will control the pristine path for an analog source, such as a phono stage, FM tuner, iPod, VCR, tape deck, etc.
All digital inputs on the DAC1 HDR (including the USB) feature Benchmarks jitter-immune UltraLock clock system. The USB interface operates with Benchmarks AdvancedUSB native 24-bit, 96-kHz USB technology. The DAC1 HDR features a high-current output stage designed to drive even the most difficult loads. Other features include selectable headphone gain ranges and an auto-mute function for muting the main outputs when headphones are being used.
HDR-VC High Dynamic Range Volume Control
The DAC1 HDR features Benchmarks HDR-VC (High Dynamic Range Volume Control). The HDR-VC is achieved with a custom-built motorized Alps potentiometer. The DAC1 HDRs motor-driven volume control maintains the dynamic range of the converter and the audio ouput in contrast. Digital volume controls reduce dynamic range, and analog volume ICs introduce distortion and noise.
The acclaimed DAC1 D-to-A conversion system
Recording studios, mastering engineers and audiophiles have grown to rely on Benchmark for critical digital audio conversion for more than 10 years. The superior performance of the award-winning DAC1 has made it the Benchmark of D-to-A converters. With the DAC1 HDR, this built-in state-of-the-art converter will improve the sonic performance of your digital audio sources, including your computer.
Jitter-Immune UltraLock Clock System
Benchmarks proprietary UltraLock clock system achieves an unprecedented immunity to jitter. Many modern (and expensive) converters suffer from significant jitter-induced distortion, generating non-musical sideband tones and digital distortion. Benchmarks highly-regarded UltraLock clock system ensures that jitter is never a problem, even under extreme conditions.
Even in the presence of extremely high input jitter, no jitter-induced artifacts can be detected on the outputs of the DAC1 HDR (using state-of-the-art testing equipment by Audio Precision). UltraLock will block more then 12.5 UI of jitter (at 1 kHz). The UltraLock clock system easily outperforms even the best-designed two-stage PLL designs.
The bottom line is this: Benchmark converters will consistently and faithfully deliver truthful audio without jitter-induced artifacts, no matter what variables are present.
AdvancedUSB Audio Technology
The USB interface of the DAC1 HDR operates with Benchmarks unique AdvancedUSB technology. Unlike many USB-equipped D/A converters, Benchmarks AdvancedUSB technology supports 24-bit audio at sample rates up to 96 kHz without the installation of any drivers or other special software. Benchmarks UltraLock clock system isolates the converter from the high levels of jitter that are found on USB interfaces. The DAC1 HDR achieves transparent, audiophile-quality playback through a true plug-and-play solution.
Audio streamed via USB is subject to significant amounts of jitter. The AdvancedUSB interface utilizes the UltraLock clock system. Consequently, the performance of the USB input is equal to the performance of the other inputs, regardless of the jitter present.
The DAC1 HDR is natively compatible with Windows Vista / XP / 2000 and Mac OS X. As a native device, there are no drivers or other software required to install or configure.
HPA2 Headphone Amplifier
The DAC1 HDR includes the HPA2 Benchmarks signature high-current, 0-Ohm headphone amplifier. The HPA2 is the ultimate reference headphone amplifier. It will deliver the full-rated performance of the DAC1 to the headphones. The HPA2 maintains less than 0.0003% THD+N under a full load from two sets of headphones. The DAC1 HDR has two 1/4 headphone jacks on the front panel.
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Protect your investment with the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty
A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
- Product Replacement: If your product cannot be fixed or costs too much to fix, we will replace it with the equivalent model for no additional charge. If this is not possible, a full refund will be provided.
- No Lemon Policy: Your product will be replaced should the same problem occur multiple times.
- Convenient: Easy drop off and pick up of the product at any Long & McQuade location.
- Guitar Setup: Guitars purchased at Long & McQuade come with 1 free setup, to be redeemed within 1 year for new guitars and 90 days for used guitars.
- Loaners Available: A loaner product may be given while the product is being repaired.
- Power Surge Protection: Your product is covered even if damaged from a power surge.
- Accessory Coverage: Any peripheral devices or accessories that come with your product (i.e. foot pedal, case) are also covered.
- Commercial Use Coverage: Music and recording professionals who purchase gear for “heavy-use” commercial purposes will still be covered.
Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- GUITARS: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year. $45 maximum. An additional free setup is not included with additional purchased years of Performance Warranty.
- BAND and ORCHESTRAL instruments: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year.
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| Product | SKU | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| DAC1 HDR 2-CH Pre W/ 24/192 D/A & Remote Black | 305944 |
