Reference Digital Conversion with Precision Hybrid Gain Control
The Benchmark DAC3 L Digital to Analog Converter combines Benchmark's reference-grade digital conversion with flexible analog preamplifier control in a compact half-rack chassis. Built around the ESS ES9028PRO converter, UltraLock3 clock system and high-headroom digital processing, the DAC3 L is engineered to minimize jitter, noise and distortion while preserving the waveform integrity and tonal neutrality required for both critical studio monitoring and high-end home audio systems.
Five digital inputs are joined by two stereo RCA analog inputs, allowing the DAC3 L to serve as the central control component in a complete two-channel system. Benchmark's Hybrid Gain Control coordinates digital and analog level adjustment while keeping analog sources in the analog signal path, and balanced XLR plus dual RCA outputs allow direct connection to power amplifiers or external line amplifiers. Home Theater Bypass, native DSD support, polarity control, digital pass-through and bidirectional 12V trigger connectivity further expand its system flexibility.
Highlights & Benefits
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ESS ES9028PRO DAC Architecture — Delivers Benchmark's reference-level digital conversion with extremely low noise and distortion.
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Hybrid Gain Control — Combines digital and analog volume control for precise system-level adjustment without unnecessarily digitizing analog inputs.
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UltraLock3 Jitter Attenuation — Isolates the conversion process from source and interface jitter, including jitter from USB, long digital cables and lower-quality transports.
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Five Digital Inputs Plus Two Analog Inputs — Asynchronous USB, two optical and two coaxial inputs are joined by two stereo RCA analog inputs for flexible source integration.
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Balanced & Dual RCA Outputs — Studio-level or Hi-Fi-level XLR outputs plus two stereo RCA outputs make the DAC3 L equally useful with professional and consumer audio equipment.
Technology & Design
High-Headroom DSP — Benchmark provides 3dB of digital headroom above 0dBFS to prevent intersample peaks from clipping internally, reducing bursts of distortion that can occur with conventional DAC designs.
Linear-Phase Reconstruction Filtering — A linear-phase brick-wall reconstruction filter is designed to preserve the original waveform and maintain accurate phase relationships through the D/A conversion process.
UltraLock3 Clock System — Digital-interface jitter is attenuated before conversion, with jitter-induced distortion held far below the audible threshold.
Configurable Balanced Output Level — Passive 10dB and 20dB output attenuators allow the balanced outputs to operate at professional studio levels or more conventional Hi-Fi levels without compromising signal integrity.
FAQ — Benchmark DAC3 L
Can the Benchmark DAC3 L connect directly to a power amplifier?
Yes. The DAC3 L includes Hybrid Gain Control and variable balanced XLR and RCA outputs, allowing it to serve as a DAC and system preamplifier connected directly to a compatible power amplifier.
Does the Benchmark DAC3 L have a headphone amplifier?
No. The DAC3 L removes the HPA2 headphone amplifier found in the DAC3 HGC. If headphone amplification is required, Benchmark's HPA4 or DAC3 HGC would be more appropriate choices.
Does the DAC3 L support DSD?
Yes. Benchmark lists native DSD conversion among the DAC3 L's supported capabilities, along with high-resolution PCM playback through its asynchronous USB and conventional digital inputs.
What is the difference between the DAC3 L and DAC3 B?
The DAC3 L adds Benchmark's Hybrid Gain Control and two stereo analog inputs to the DAC3 B platform. The DAC3 B is designed primarily as a fixed-output DAC for use with a separate preamplifier such as the Benchmark LA4 or HPA4.
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