Benchmark DAC2 HGC vs Bel Canto Dac 2.7 vs Other DAC pre-amp

[bridger]

Hi

 

I am currently using a Benchmark DAC2 HGC and while I am happy with the sound, I hate the interface and remote and am looking to replace it with something at least as good sonically but with simpler usability and cleaner looks.

 

So far all I have been able to find as a suitable replacement is the Bel Canto Dac 2.7. I have previously used the Bel Canto Dac 2.5 and was happy with that.

 

I would appreciate thoughts on how the Bel Canto Dac 2.7 compares with Benchmark DAC2 HGC sonically as well as the usability of the Bel Canto Dac 2.7 in general.

 

I would also appreciate suggestions of other DACs to consider.

 

My criteria are:

• Black
• Pre-amp
• Balanced outputs
• Quality headphone amp (nice to have)

 

Many thanks for reading.

 

[Matias]

RME ADI-2 DAC v2 would fit very nice in your needs for 1.1k usd. Its AutoRef feature is very clever for using it as a preamp.

https://www.rme-audio.de/adi-2-dac.html

[bridger]

22 minutes ago, Matias said:

RME ADI-2 DAC v2 would fit very nice in your needs for 1.1k usd. Its AutoRef feature is very clever for using it as a preamp.

https://www.rme-audio.de/adi-2-dac.html

Thanks for the great suggestion Matias. I have not come across this one - seems great value for money and German no less. I am researching further now.

[photonman]

Your Benchmark is a pretty nice DAC, but I understand all too well how that upgrade bug bites us and forces us to want something else

 

One thing about the RME is the external power supply so are you going to be happy with that one or will you want to upgrade it so that needs to be considered in your budget.