The Benchmark DAC3 B is a reference-grade two-channel digital-to-analogue converter that delivers the full audio performance of the flagship Benchmark DAC3 HGC, without the additional features aimed at end-user control. Designed specifically for use in professional studios and precision audio systems, the Benchmark DAC3 B omits volume controls, analogue inputs, headphone outputs, mute and polarity switches, and instead offers a streamlined, fixed-level output for integration with Benchmark’s HPA4 headphone amplifier, LA4 line amplifier, or other external analogue systems.
Despite its minimal front panel and simplified feature set, the Benchmark DAC3 B uses the exact same audio circuitry and converter topology as the Benchmark DAC3 HGC. At its core is the ESS Technologies ES9028PRO 32-bit digital-to-analogue conversion chip, operating in a quad-summed configuration. Each output channel is formed by summing four internal 32-bit converters to achieve a lower noise floor, reduced distortion, and an additional 6 dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratio. This design, along with Benchmark’s proprietary low-impedance analogue stages, results in exceptionally accurate, transparent and uncoloured sound reproduction.
Internal digital processing is handled at 32-bit resolution and includes 3.5 dB of headroom above 0 dBFS, effectively preventing the inter-sample clipping that can occur with many other converters. This extra headroom ensures clean and accurate reproduction of modern recordings that often contain signal peaks beyond full scale.
The Benchmark DAC3 B includes Benchmark’s advanced UltraLock3 jitter attenuation system, which completely isolates input jitter and achieves lock within just 6 milliseconds. Jitter-induced distortion and noise are suppressed to levels more than 140 dB below the audio signal, ensuring flawless digital-to-analogue conversion regardless of source quality. The asynchronous USB Audio 2.0 system also supports native DSD64 and 192 kHz PCM playback with bit-accurate transmission via DoP 1.1. It remains active when the unit is powered down, eliminating the need for reconfiguration when cycling power.
All digital inputs on the Benchmark DAC3 B natively support PCM and DSD signals without any conversion between formats. Native conversion avoids quality loss and guarantees the integrity of both high-resolution and standard audio files. Benchmark’s high-headroom DSP ensures faithful interpolation without artefacts, maintaining the natural dynamics of the source material.
The Benchmark DAC3 B features dual balanced analogue outputs on XLR connectors and four unbalanced outputs on RCA. Both output paths benefit from the same quad 32-bit conversion topology, delivering precise stereo imaging and a neutral presentation suitable for mastering and monitoring. Designed to integrate seamlessly into professional environments, the Benchmark DAC3 B also includes a bi-directional 12 volt trigger, programmable auto-on function, and control lock to prevent accidental changes during use. It can also be rack-mounted using an optional half-width faceplate.
A digital pass-through mode allows the second coaxial input to act as a digital output, passing any selected digital input, including DSD or Dolby digital streams, to external processors. This bit-transparent output enables flexible signal routing in studio or high-end hi-fi setups.
Benchmark’s DAC3 B is a converter designed for critical listening, where transparency and signal integrity are paramount. It inherits all of the performance advantages of the DAC3 platform, including the harmonic compensation features of the ES9028PRO, jitter suppression, distributed power regulation, and high-efficiency low-noise power supply, while stripping away the non-essential components for a more focused and integration-friendly design.
Whether used in a mastering suite, broadcast environment, or reference playback chain, the Benchmark DAC3 B delivers state-of-the-art performance with exceptional reliability and neutrality, making it an ideal foundation for any precision digital audio system.
Features
- Sample Rate Display
- Word Length Display
- 5 Digital Inputs
- 2 Stereo Analog Outputs (1 RCA, 1 XLR)
- Digital Pass Through
- Native DSD Conversion
- Control-lock Switch
- Asynchronous USB 2.0
- Bi-Directional 12 Volt Trigger
- Power Switch
- Low Power Consumption
- ES9028PRO Converter
