Reference stereo D/A converter & line preamplifier • ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 32-bit hyperstream architecture • UltraLock3™ jitter attenuation • hybrid gain control with precision stepped attenuation • native DSD & 24-bit/192kHz PCM playback • balanced XLR & unbalanced RCA line outputs • engineered & made in Syracuse, New York
The Benchmark DAC3 L Digital to Analog Converter sets the studio standard for transparent digital conversion and line-level preamplification, engineered to deliver absolute signal integrity without color, noise, or phase distortion. Built around the advanced ESS Technology ES9028PRO hyperstream DAC chip in a quad-balanced configuration, this reference preamplifier converter achieves an extraordinary 128 dB dynamic range and ruler-flat frequency response. Featuring Benchmark's proprietary UltraLock3™ jitter reduction clock system, high-headroom digital processing that eradicates inter-sample overs, and motorized hybrid analog gain control, it translates digital masters and analog inputs with laboratory accuracy directly to high-current power amplifiers.
Key Features & Innovations
ESS Sabre ES9028PRO in 4:1 Quad-Balanced Mode — the Benchmark DAC3 L Digital to Analog Converter dedicates four 32-bit D/A conversion paths per stereo channel, drastically reducing harmonic distortion (THD+N down to -119 dB) and lowering thermal noise floors.
UltraLock3™ Clock Jitter Attenuation System — delivers complete isolation from interface jitter artifacts across all digital inputs, utilizing DSP-managed oversampling and reference crystal oscillators to render pristine timing accuracy.
Inter-Sample Peak Headroom Architecture — incorporates 3.5 dB of specialized DSP headroom above 0 dBFS, entirely eliminating inter-sample clipping distortion commonly created by aggressive modern commercial digital mastering.
Hybrid Gain Control (HGC) System — motorized analog volume potentiometer works in tandem with low-noise stepped passive attenuators, maintaining full resolution, wide dynamic range, and accurate channel matching at any volume setting.
Pure Line-Stage Preamplifier Topology — specifically designed as a dedicated line preamplifier without integrated headphone circuitry, offering pristine balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs alongside two stereo analog RCA pass-through inputs.
FAQ — Benchmark DAC3 L
How does the 'L' version differ from the Benchmark DAC3 HGC?
The Benchmark DAC3 L Digital to Analog Converter retains the exact D/A conversion architecture, line preamplifier stage, and hybrid volume control of the DAC3 HGC, but omits the front-panel HPA2™ headphone amplifier jacks for users building pure loudspeaker systems.
Can the DAC3 L drive power amplifiers directly without a separate preamplifier?
Yes. With its motorized analog volume control, low output impedance, and selectable 0, 10, or 20 dB internal XLR output pads, the DAC3 L acts as a reference line-stage preamplifier feeding power amplifiers directly.
Does this converter support native DSD playback?
Yes, the DAC3 L decodes native DSD64 via USB and coaxial digital inputs using DoP 1.1 (DSD over PCM) transport protocol.
Where is Benchmark Media Systems equipment designed and built?
Every Benchmark DAC3 unit is precision-engineered, hand-tested, and manufactured in Syracuse, New York, USA.
Why Buy From Us
Authorized Benchmark Media Systems dealer offering 100% factory-authentic reference equipment with full manufacturer warranty protection
Expert pro-audio and audiophile consultants available to assist with gain staging, output pad matching, and balanced cable synergy
Dedicated post-purchase technical support for driver configuration and direct-to-amp system calibration
Fast, secure priority shipping in protective heavy-duty packaging on every order
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