Benchmark DAC3 HGC User manual

Benchmark DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L
Instruction Manual
Reference Stereo Preamplifier
PCM and DSD D/A Converter
Asynchronous USB
ESS9028PRO Conversion System
(Version 2.x Firmware)

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 2
Safety Information
Fuses
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED FIRE
HAZARD PROTECTION ALWAYS REPLACE
THE FUSES WITH THE CORRECT SIZE
AND TYPE (0.5A 250 V SLO-BLO® 5 X 20
MM – LITTELFUSE® HXP218.500 OR
EQUIVALENT). THE FUSE DRAWER
INCLUDES TWO FUSES. ALWAYS
REPLACE BOTH FUSES AT THE SAME
TIME.
AC Input Voltage Range
NOTE: THE DAC3 IS EQUIPPED WITH A
UNIVERSAL POWER SUPPLY. THERE IS
NO VOLTAGE SELECTION SWITCH. AC
VOLTAGE RANGE IS 88-264 VAC, 50-60
HZ. THE PRODUCT MAY ALSO BE
OPERATED FROM DC POWER OVER A
VOLTAGE RANGE OF 125-373 VDC.
Power Cord
CAUTION: ALWAYS USE A GROUNDED
POWER CORD. THE PRODUCT IS
EQUIPPED WITH A STANDARD IEC
POWER ENTRY MODULE. USE AN IEC
POWER CORD THAT IS EQUIPPED WITH
THE APPROPRIATE CONNECTOR FOR
YOUR LOCATION. CORDS ARE AVAILABLE
FROM YOUR DEALER.
Modifications
CAUTION: DO NOT SUBSTITUTE PARTS
OR MAKE ANY MODIFICATIONS
WITHOUT THE WRITTEN APPROVAL OF
BENCHMARK MEDIA SYSTEMS, INC.
MODIFICATION MAY CREATE SAFETY
HAZARDS AND VOID THE WARRANTY.
CAUTION:CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS
NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY
BENCHMARK MEDIA SYSTEMS COULD
VOID THE USER'S AUTHORITY TO
OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT UNDER FCC
REGULATIONS.
Repairs
CAUTION: DO NOT SERVICE OR REPAIR
THIS PRODUCT UNLESS PROPERLY
QUALIFIED. ONLY A QUALIFIED
TECHNICIAN SHOULD PERFORM
REPAIRS.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 3
Contents
Safety Information 2
Fuses 2
AC Input Voltage Range 2
Power Cord 2
Modifications 2
Repairs 2
Features 4
Introduction 5
Applications 5
DAC3 vs. DAC2 5
DAC3 vs. DAC1 5
DAC3 Technologies 5
Front Panel 8
Rear Panel 8
Quick Start Guide 9
Audio Inputs 9
Remote Control 9
Front Panel Controls 10
Front Panel Displays 11
Headphone Jacks 13
Operational Details 14
DIM and MUTE Functions 14
Auto-On Function 14
Bi-directional 12V Trigger 15
HT Mode 17
Preamp COMPATIBILITY Mode 18
USB MODE Selection 18
Driving Power Amplifiers 19
HPA2™ Headphone Amplifier 19
Digital Pass-Through 20
Firmware Version Identification 21
Rear Panel 22
Inputs 22
Outputs 25
AC Power-Entry and Fuse Module 26
Internal Settings 27
Jumper-Configured Options 27
Removing Top Cover 27
XLR Output Pads 27
Headphone Switch Configuration 28
Headphone Amplifier Gain 29
Digital PASS-THROUGH Function 30
Rack Mounting 31
Benchmark Rack Mount Tray 31
Benchmark ½-Wide Blank Plate 31
DAC1, DAC2 and DAC3 Family History 32
DAC1 Series 32
DAC2 Series 32
DAC3 Series 33
Benchmark Technologies 34
Hybrid Gain Control™ 34
Native DSD Conversion 34
High Headroom DSP 34
32-bit SABRE-PRO D/A System 36
Diagnostic Displays 36
Bi-Directional 12 Volt Trigger 36
Distributed Power Regulation 36
HPA2™ Headphone Amplifier 36
Differential Amplifiers 37
Jitter-Immune UltraLock3™ 37
Multi-Mode Asynchronous USB Audio 40
USB Driver Installation 42
Performance Graphs 47
Specifications 64
Audio Performance 64
Group Delay (Latency) 65
Digital Audio Inputs 65
Jitter Tolerance 65
Balanced Analog Outputs 66
Unbalanced Analog Outputs 66
HPA2TM Headphone Outputs 66
Unbalanced Analog Inputs 67
Status Display 67
AC Power Requirements 67
Dimensions 67
Weight 67
Regulatory Compliance 68
FCC and RoHS Compliance Statements 68
FCC Notice (U.S. Only) 68
RoHS Compliant Information 68
CE Certificate of Conformity 69
Warranty Information 70
Benchmark 1-Year Warranty 70
Benchmark Extended Warranty Options 71
Notes on Warranty Repairs 71

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 4
Features
HGC™(Hybrid Gain Control) – combines motor-driven active analog potentiometers, 32-bit
digital attenuators, and passive analog attenuators, to achieve state-of-the-art performance
Low-Impedance Passive Output Pads – 0, 10, and 20 dB – optimize output level to power
amplifiers and other downstream devices to maximize system SNR (Page 28)
SABRE PRO - 32-bit PCM D/A conversion system, four 32-bit D/A converters per channel
SABRE PRO – Native DSD D/A conversion system, four 1-bit DSD D/A converters per channel
Benchmark UltraLock3™ Jitter Attenuation System – eliminates jitter-induced distortion
High Headroom DSP - provides 3.5 dB of analog and digital headroom above 0 dBFS to
completely eliminate the clipping of intersample peaks
Multi-Mode Asynchronous USB Audio 2.0 – 24 bit/192 kHz, DSD (DoP 1.1)
Driverless Asynchronous USB Audio 1.1 – 24-bit/96 kHz
Sample Rate Display – displays the measured sample rate, and format (PCM or DSD)
Word Length Display – displays the measured word length
HPA2™ reference-grade "0-Ohm" headphone power amplifier with dual high-current
outputs (DAC3 HGC only)
HPA2™ gain jumpers for customizing headphone output gain for headphone sensitivities
(DAC3 HGC only) (Page 28)
2 Headphone Output Jacks – one jack automatically mutes the main outputs (DAC3 HGC
only), mute feature can be disabled (Page 28)
2 Coaxial Digital Inputs – 24-bit/192 kHz PCM, DSD (DoP 1.1)
2 Optical Digital Inputs – 24-bit/96 kHz PCM
1 Coaxial Digital Output – digital pass through from USB, Coax, and optical inputs when
function is enabled (Page 30)
2 Stereo Analog Inputs – 2 pairs unbalanced (RCA)
3 Stereo Analog Outputs – 1 pair balanced (XLR), plus 2 pairs unbalanced (RCA)
IR Remote with metal housing provides control of all functions (optional on some models)
HT Bypass – places analog inputs in a unity-gain pass-through mode, sets digital inputs to a
calibrated output level - all inputs can be individually programmed (Page 17)
Polarity Switch – inverts the polarity of selected digital inputs
Mute – accessible from remote or front panel
Dim – Reduces output level by 20 dB, accessible from remote or front panel
Automatic De-Emphasis – automatically responds to consumer pre-emphasis bit (44.1, 48
kHz)
12V Trigger I/O – bi-directional 12V trigger can act as input, output, or both (Page 15)
AUTO-ON Function - can be programmed to turn on when AC is applied (Page 14)
Power Switch – very low standby power , <0.5 W at 120 VAC
High-Efficiency Low-Noise Power Supplies – only 12-15 W, 88-264 VAC, 50-60 Hz
Meets FCC Class B and CE emissions requirements
Tested for immunity to radiated and conducted RF interference

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 5
Introduction
Applications
The DAC3 is a professional reference-grade
audio digital to analog converter with
Benchmark's HPA2™headphone amplifier.
The DAC3 supports 24-bit D/A conversion of
PCM at sample rates up to 192 kHz. It also
supports direct conversion of 1-bit DSD at a
2.8224 MHz sample rate. It is designed to be
very transparent and this makes it well-suited
for critical monitoring in studio control rooms
and mastering rooms.
The DAC3 is also well-suited for high-end
hi-fi environments. It includes a generous
collection of inputs and outputs and can serve
as the central component in any stereo hi-fi
system. The DAC3 provides D/A conversion,
source selection, volume control, and
headphone amplification. A remote control,
12V trigger, and home theater bypass
function provide the features needed in a
home environment.
The DAC3 is designed to directly drive a wide
variety of power amplifiers and powered
monitors. The balanced outputs include low-
impedance passive pads that can be adjusted
to optimize the interface between the DAC3
and the power amplifier. This optimization can
provide substantial improvements in the
system-level SNR and THD+N performance.
DAC3 vs. DAC2
The DAC3 builds upon Benchmark’s highly
successful DAC2product family. The DAC3
maintains the familiar DAC2form factor, but
adds the higher performance available from
the new ES9028PRO D/A converter. The
DAC3 offers the following improvements over
the DAC2:
•Active 2nd Harmonic Compensation
•Active 3rd Harmonic Compensation
•Lower THD
•Lower passband ripple
•Improved frequency response
•Increased Dynamic Range
•Faster PLL lock times
•Faster switching between inputs
DAC3 vs. DAC1
The DAC3 and DAC2 add these features that
are not found on the DAC1:
•Asynchronous 192kHz USB Audio 2.0
•32-bit D/A conversion system
•Word Length Display
•Sample Rate Display
•Polarity Control
•Direct DSD D/A Conversion
•-20 dB DIM
•Bi-Directional 12V Trigger
•Power Switch with Auto-On Function
•Home Theater Bypass
•Digital Pass-Through
•High-Headroom DSP
•Dual-Domain Hybrid Gain Control
•Additional I/O
DAC3 Technologies
4:1 Parallel Conversion Structure
The conversion system in the DAC3 achieves
a 6 dB signal to noise improvement through
the use of 4:1 summing. The ES9028PRO D/A
is an 8-channel 32-bit converter. In the
DAC3, four channels are summed in the
analog domain to form each of the two output
channels.
The 4:1 summing also improves the THD. The
non-linearities in individual conversion
channels are averaged across the four
summed channels and incoherent non-
linearities are attenuated by 6 dB.
Harmonic Compensation
The ES9028PRO has two distortion
compensation systems that independently
remove most of the 2nd and 3rd harmonic
distortion in the D/A converter. Benchmark's
ultra-clean analog output stages allow these
systems to be fully leveraged in the DAC3.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 6
High-Headroom Digital and Analog
Processing
The DAC3 has generous amounts of analog
and digital headroom. The analog clip point is
above 29 dBu. The digital clip point is 27.5
dBu. When operating at a typical -20 dB at
+4 dBu studio calibration, the DAC3 has 3.5
dB of digital headroom above 0 dBFS. This
digital headroom prevents the clipping of
intersample overs.
No Clipping of Intersample Overs
The DAC3 is one of very few D/A converters
that can accurately reproduce intersample
overs without clipping. Intersample peaks can
reach +3.01 dBFS and commonly occur many
times per second in most 44.1 kHz and 48
kHz recordings. When recordings are ripped
using lossy compression systems (such as
MP3), additional intersample overs are often
created. Most converters (including the
DAC1) produce bursts of distortion at every
occurrence of an intersample over. In
contrast, the DAC2and DAC3 converters
cleanly reproduce all intersample overs.
Low-Noise Power Supplies
The DAC3 uses high-efficiency low-noise
power supplies. Each critical subsystem also
has at least one dedicated low-noise
regulator. The high-efficiency supplies deliver
the substantial power required by the low-
impedance circuits, the headphone amplifier,
and the output line drivers. A power switch is
included. The standby power consumption is
less than 0.5 W when the unit is off.
Low Magnetic Emissions
The magnetic components in the DAC3 power
supplies operate at over 800 kHz. This allows
the use of very small magnetic components
that emit correspondingly small magnetic
fields. This virtually eliminates all traces of
line-frequency components in the output
spectrum of the DAC3. This also means that
the DAC3 can be placed in close proximity to
any audio component without causing
interference with the other component.
UltraLock3™ Clock System
UltraLock3™ provides the outstanding jitter
attenuation of Benchmark's UltraLock2™
system while providing virtually instantaneous
(6 ms) lock times.
Dual-Mode USB Input
The DAC3 has a USB input that can be
operated in two modes; driverless USB
Audio 1.1, and a high sample rate USB
Audio 2.0. Both use asynchronous clocking
to eliminate the USB interface as a source of
clock jitter.
Note: To provide full backward and forward
compatibility, the DAC3 uses the DAC2 USB
drivers. This prevents the need to install two
different sets of drivers. Please note that the
DAC3 USB input will be identified as
"Benchmark DAC2" in your computer control
panels. This is intentional.
Asynchronous USB Audio 2.0
The USB Audio 2.0 interface supports DSD
and 192 kHz, 24-bit PCM. No drivers are
required for Apple operating systems. Drivers
are provided for Windows operating systems
at: BenchmarkMedia.com/drivers
Native Asynchronous USB 1.1
The DAC3 has a driverless USB Audio 1.1
mode that supports 96 kHz, 24-bit PCM with
all operating systems. This mode provides a
quick and easy connection to a wide variety of
computers and tablets without installing a
driver.
HGC™ Hybrid Gain Control
HGC™ is Benchmark’s unique hybrid gain
control that combines analog and digital gain
control into a single volume control knob.
The HGC™ system uses an active analog gain
control for analog inputs and a 32-bit dithered
volume control for digital inputs. Both types
of inputs leverage the low-impedance passive

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 7
analog attenuation system at the XLR
outputs.
The dual-domain HGC™ system combines the
high dynamic range of Benchmark’s HDR™
analog control (used in the DAC1 HDR) with
the low distortion and accuracy of a digital
control. HGC™ outperforms traditional analog
or digital volume controls, including the two-
stage DAC1 HDR™ system. Musical details
are preserved over a very wide range of
output levels. Analog inputs are controlled in
the analog domain. Digital inputs are
controlled in both domains.
The volume control is a servo-driven analog
potentiometer. This control rotates in
response to commands from the remote
control while providing the convenience of
manual adjustments with a physical knob.
Low-Impedance Passive Attenuators
Like the DAC1 and DAC2, the DAC3 includes
low-impedance passive attenuators on the
XLR outputs. These attenuators can be
adjusted to optimize the interface with the
power amplifier or powered monitors. This
optimization places the volume control in its
best operating range. This exclusive
Benchmark feature can provide substantial
improvements in the performance of the
playback signal chain.
Native DSD Conversion
The DAC3 supports native DSD conversion.
This feature was not available on the DAC1.
DSD signals can be delivered to the USB or
Coaxial inputs in DoP 1.1 format. The DSD
signal is then routed directly to a bank of 1-
bit DSD D/A converters. Four balanced 1-bit
converters are summed together for each
balanced output.
Digital Pass-Through
The second coaxial input (D4) can be
reconfigured as a digital output. When
operating as an output, any selected digital
input is passed through to D4 without any
processing. Optical, coaxial, and USB inputs
can be passed through to the D4 connector.
This even includes special signals such as
DoP, DTS, Dolby Digital, even when these
signals cannot be decoded by the DAC3.
Polarity Control
Each digital input can be inverted, to correct
polarity problems. Some listeners report that
polarity is incorrect on some recordings, and
that they enjoy an improved listening
experience when this is corrected. To toggle,
use the POLARITY button on the front panel
or press and hold the ON button on the
remote.
HT Mode
The HT mode sets the volume control to a
calibrated level that is near its maximum
setting. In HT mode the analog gain is set to
0 dB (unity gain). Likewise the digital
attenuation is set to 0 dB (maximum output).
The HT light is illuminated when the HT mode
is active.
The HT mode is similar to the CALIBRATED
switch setting on the DAC1 except that it is
programmable per input. This flexibility allows
seamless integration into home theater
systems where the DAC3 handles the main
left and right channels.
Bi-directional 12V Trigger
The 12 Volt trigger can be connected to other
audio components so that an entire audio
system can turn on and off in a sequenced
fashion. The DAC3 trigger I/O can be
connected to a preamplifier, power amplifier,
or both. The DAC3 will pull the trigger I/O to
12 volts DC while the DAC3 is on. If the
DAC3 is off and an external device pulls the
trigger I/O to 12 volts, the DAC3 will turn on.
Auto-On Function
The DAC3 can be programmed to
automatically turn on when AC power is
applied. (Page 14)

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 8
Front Panel
DAC3 HGC
DAC3 L
Rear Panel
DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 9
Quick Start Guide
Audio Inputs
The DAC3 features two stereo RCA analog
inputs and five stereo digital inputs (2
coaxial, 2 optical, and 1 USB). The coaxial
and optical inputs accept professional (AES)
and consumer (S/PDIF) data formats at word
lengths up to 24-bits.
Tip: We recommend using the coaxial or USB
inputs for sample rates above 96 kHz. Optical
interfaces are not always reliable at sample
rates above 96 kHz.
Remote Control
The remote control is designed to have a long
operating range. In most applications it is not
necessary to point the remote directly at the
DAC3.
The chart at the right summarizes the
functions of the IR remote control.
OFF
Turns the unit off. Any devices
slaved to the 12V TRIGGER will
also turn off in a controlled
sequence.
Press and hold the OFF button for
3 seconds to force the 12V
TRIGGER off (only necessary
when another device is acting as a
TRIGGER BUS MASTER).
ON
Turns the unit on. Any devices
slaved to the 12V TRIGGER will
also turn on in a controlled
sequence.
Press and hold the ON button for
3 seconds to toggle the
POLARITY function.
VOLUME
Turns the volume up or down.
DIM
Toggles the -20 dB DIM function.
MUTE
Toggles the MUTE function.
Press and hold the MUTE button
for 3 seconds to toggle the HT
mode on the selected input.
INPUT
Selects the inputs.
D1
Selects optical digital input D1.
D2
Selects optical digital input D2.
D3
Selects coaxial digital input D3.
D4
Selects coaxial digital input D4.
USB
Selects USB input.
Press and hold the USB button for
3 seconds to toggle between the
USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 modes.
Analog
Selects analog input A1 and then
toggles between A1 and A2.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 10
Front Panel Controls
The front panel controls duplicate all of the
functions that are available from the remote
control.
One additional function, AUTO-ON, is only
controllable from the front panel. The AUTO-
ON function keeps the DAC3 on whenever AC
line voltage is supplied.
Tip: When AUTO-ON is enabled, a switched
AC outlet can be used to turn your system on
and off. The 12V TRIGGER I/O can be used
as a trigger output to control the power state
of additional components.
The chart at the right summarizes the
functions of the front-panel controls.
POWER
Turns the unit on or off. Any
devices slaved to the 12V
TRIGGER will also turn on or
off in a controlled sequence.
Press and hold the POWER
button for 3 seconds to force
the 12V TRIGGER off (only
necessary when another device
is acting as a TRIGGER BUS
MASTER).
Starting with the unit off, press
and hold the POWER button
for 3 seconds to set the AUTO-
ON function.
Starting with the unit on, press
and hold the POWER button
for 3 seconds to clear the
AUTO-ON function.
If AUTO-ON is set, the
POWER button will toggle
MUTE on and off (the unit will
remain on).
DIM/MUTE
Press once to toggle the -20 dB
DIM function.
Double tap to set the MUTE
function.
INPUT
Selects the inputs.
Press and hold both input
buttons for 3 seconds to toggle
between the USB 1.1 and USB
2.0 modes.
VOLUME
(knob)
This motor-driven knob can be
turned by hand at any time
(even when being driven by the
motor).
If HT mode is off, the motor
drive will release when the
knob is held or turned by hand.
If HT mode is on, the motor
drive will attempt to return the
volume control to the HT
setting.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 11
Front Panel Displays
There are sixteen status indicator lights on
the front panel. At least one light will be
illuminated whenever power is on.
Input Indicators
The input indicators
show which input is
selected.
A flashing light
indicates an error on
a digital input.
The HT light shows
that HT mode is
active.
A1
A solid blue light indicates that analog
input A1 is selected.
A2
A solid blue light indicates that analog
input A2 is selected.
U
A solid blue light indicates that the USB
input is selected and operating normally.
A blinking blue light indicates that the
input is selected but a connection to a
computer has not been established.
D1
A solid blue light indicates that optical
input D1 is selected and operating
normally. A blinking blue light indicates
that the input is selected but audio data
is not being received.
D2
A solid blue light indicates that optical
input D2 is selected and operating
normally. A blinking blue light indicates
that the input is selected but audio data
is not being received.
D3
A solid blue light indicates that coaxial
input D3 is selected and operating
normally. A blinking blue light indicates
that the input is selected but audio data
is not being received.
D4
A solid blue light indicates that coaxial
input D4 is selected and operating
normally. A blinking blue light indicates
that the input is selected but audio data
is not being received.
Note: D4 cannot be selected if the Digital
Pass Through function is enabled.
Instructions for configuring this jumper-
selected function can be found in the
Internal Settings section of this manual
(Page 30).
Input Error Codes
The input indicators flash when errors are
present on the selected digital input. There
are no error indications for analog inputs. Use
the following table to diagnose the problem:
Slow Flash
(2Hz)
No digital signal (output
muted)
Med. Flash
(7Hz)
Data transmission errors or
Non-PCM (output muted)
Rapid flashes
(14Hz)
Non-audio data is being
received (output muted)
Intermittent
flashes
Some data corruption is
occurring, converter may be
interpolating to replace
invalid samples, check the
cable.
Tip: Common causes of input errors:
•Disconnected or faulty cable
•Use of excessively long digital cables
•Use of analog cables for digital signals
•Use of optical cables for sample rates
exceeding 96 kHz
•Incompatible data type (AC3, ADAT, etc.)
•Non-audio data is being received
HT Indicator
HT
A solid light indicates that the HT mode
is active on the selected input and the
volume control is in the factory
calibrated position (near full clockwise).
A blinking light indicates that the HT
mode is active but the volume control
has not yet reached its calibrated
position. The HT light and DIM/MUTE
light will blink together if the unit is
muted while HT mode is active.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 12
DIM, MUTE, and POLARITY Indicators
DIM/MUTE
A solid red light indicates that
the unit is in DIM mode. A
slow flashing red light indicates
that the unit is in MUTE mode.
A rapidly flashing red light
indicates that the remote
control is sending commands.
POLARITY
Yellow light indicates that the
POLARITY inversion function
is active.
Digital Format Indicators
Two lights indicate
the measured word
length of the
selected digital
input.
Four lights indicate
the sample rate and
format of the
selected digital
input.
Tip: Computers, disk players, and streaming
devices often subject the digital signal to
sample rate conversion, changes in word
length, PCM to DSD conversions, and other
forms of digital processing that may degrade
the quality of the audio. This display makes it
easy to detect these processes.
Word Length Indicators
The 16 and 24 lights indicate the measured
word length of the selected digital input. The
DAC3 detects active data bits and displays
the results as follows:
16 Only
Measured input word length is
16 bits.
16 and 24
Measured input word length is
17 to 23 bits.
24 Only
Measured input word length is
24 bits.
Both Off
Measured input word length is
less than 16 bits.
Format indicators
The 44, 48, 2X, 4X, and DSD lights indicate
the sample rate and format of the selected
digital input as follows:
44 Only
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 44.1 kHz (CD
sample rate).
48 Only
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 48 kHz (often
used with video).
44 and 2X
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 88.2 kHz
(high-resolution audio
format).
48 and 2X
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 96 kHz (high-
resolution audio format).
44 and 4X
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 176.4 kHz
(high-resolution audio
format).
48 and 4X
The input format is PCM at a
sample rate of 192 kHz (high-
resolution audio format).
DSD
(4x and 2X)
The input format is 1-bit DSD
at a sample rate of 2.8224
MHz (high-resolution audio
format). Note: DSD must be
streamed in DoP format.
All Off
Digital signal is not present or
is not in a supported format.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 13
Headphone Jacks
(DAC3 HGC only)
The left-hand jack
mutes the XLR and
RCA outputs.
The right-hand jack
keeps all outputs
active.
Headphone Mute Switch
The left-hand headphone jack includes a
switch that mutes the main analog outputs
(XLR and RCA) when a headphone plug is
inserted. This feature allows the listener to
switch from loudspeaker to headphone
playback seamlessly. This Auto-Mute feature
can be disabled with internal jumpers.
Note: Instructions for setting the Auto-Mute
jumpers can be found in the Internal
Settings section of this manual (Page 28).
Tip:Use the left-hand jack to mute your
loudspeaker system. Use the right-hand jack
to keep all outputs active.
Driving Two Sets of Headphones
The HPA2™ is specifically designed with
enough power to drive two sets of
headphones.
Tip: The Volume Control simultaneously
adjusts the level for both jacks. If two
listeners will be simultaneously using the
headphone outputs, we recommend using
headphones with identical or similar voltage
sensitivities.
HPA2TM Headphone Power Amplifier
The headphone jacks are driven by
Benchmark's HPA2™ headphone power
amplifier. This small and very clean power
amplifier can deliver the current and voltage
required by some of the most demanding
headphones. The output impedance of the
HPA2™ is very close to 0 Ohms. This low
output impedance delivers a high damping
factor so that the amplifier can maintain
precise control over the headphone
transducers.
Headphone voltage sensitivities vary
substantially, so we have equipped the
HPA2™ with Gain-Range jumpers that can
be used to customize the headphone amplifier
to your favorite headphones. If you find that
you have too much output (volume control
set below 11 o'clock), there are internal
jumpers that can be adjusted to decrease the
output level by 10 dB or 20 dB relative to the
factory default setting.
Note: Instructions for setting the headphone
Gain-Range jumpers can be found in the
Internal Settings section of this manual.
Tip:For optimal performance, the headphone
Gain-Range jumpers should be set so that
comfortable listening levels occur when the
volume control is set above the 11 o'clock
position.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 14
Operational Details
DIM and MUTE Functions
Definition: If the DIM, MUTE, HT and
COMPATIBILITY modes are all off, the
DAC3 is in NORMAL mode.
Definition: The NORMAL volume setting is
the last volume setting that was in use before
the DIM, MUTE, HT or COMPATIBILITY
modes were activated.
DIM Function
The DIM function reduces the output level by
20 dB. To toggle between NORMAL and DIM
volume, press the DIM button on the remote
or the DIM/MUTE button on the front panel.
The red DIM/MUTE light will turn on
whenever DIM is active.
When DIM is activated, the NORMAL volume
setting is stored in memory while the volume
control ramps down by 20 dB. When DIM is
deactivated, the volume control ramps back
to the NORMAL volume setting that was
stored in memory.
The DIM function makes it convenient to fade
back and forth between normal and
background playback volume levels.
TIP: In the studio, the DIM function allows a
temporary reduction in level without losing
the volume setting that was being used for
monitoring.
Tip: In home applications the DIM function
allows temporary reductions in volume during
TV commercial breaks, phone calls, or other
interruptions, without losing the volume
setting that was being used for normal
listening.
If the volume is adjusted while DIM is active,
it will not change the NORMAL setting unless
the DIM volume is turned up above the last
NORMAL setting. If the volume control is
turned up by more than 20 dB after DIM is
activated, the DIM mode will automatically
deactivate, the DIM light will turn off, and the
saved NORMAL setting will be replaced by
the current volume setting.
DIM cannot be activated when HT mode is
enabled.
With digital inputs, DIM will reduce the
output level by exactly 20 dB. With analog
inputs, DIM will reduce the output level 20
dB +/- 0.5 dB.
MUTE Function
The MUTE function immediately mutes all
outputs. To toggle this function, press the
MUTE button on the remote or double-tap
the DIM/MUTE button on the front panel.
The red DIM/MUTE light will flash at a 1 Hz
rate whenever MUTE is active.
When MUTE is activated from a NORMAL
listening mode, the audio will immediately
mute while the motor-driven volume control
ramps down to the -20 dB DIM position.
When MUTE is released, the output will
unmute at the DIM volume position and then
ramp back up to the previous setting. This
movement of the motor-driven volume
control provides a soft unmute when MUTEis
released. It also allows immediate transitions
between MUTE and DIM.
Tip: If the unit is in MUTE, press the DIM
key to immediately enter the DIM mode.
Tip: If the unit is in MUTE, press the ON key
to enter the NORMAL mode.
Tip: if the unit is in DIM, press the MUTE
key to toggle between DIM and MUTE.
Auto-On Function
The DAC3 can be programmed to
automatically turn on whenever AC power is
applied. This function allows automation using
switched AC outlets. When AUTO-ON is

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 15
enabled, the DAC3 cannot be turned off
without removing AC power.
The AUTO-ON function is programmed by
pressing and holding the POWER button on
the front panel for three seconds. This
function cannot be programmed from the
remote control. This limitation prevents
accidental access to this special feature.
Enabling AUTO-ON
Starting with the DAC3 off, press and hold
the POWER button for 3 seconds.
If AUTO-ON has been successfully enabled,
the unit cannot be turned off using the
POWER button or the OFF button on the
remote. These buttons will place the unit in
MUTE unless the COMPATIBILITY MODE is
also enabled. These buttons will have no
function when the COMPATIBILITY MODE is
also enabled.
Disabling AUTO-ON
Starting with the DAC3 on, press and hold
the POWER button for 3 seconds. At the end
of 3 seconds the DAC3 will power down if the
AUTO-ON mode has been successfully
disabled.
Bi-directional 12V Trigger
Benchmark has reinvented the 12 volt trigger
by adding bi-directional signaling. The trigger
connection on the DAC3 can be used as an
input, an output, or both. It is compatible
with any common 12 volt trigger input or
output. The 12V TRIGGER I/O can be used
to turn other audio components on when the
DAC3 turns on. The DAC3 can also turn on
and off in response to other connected
components. The Benchmark bi-directional
12V Trigger is compatible with virtually all
trigger systems.
The 12V TRIGGER I/O can be connected to
the trigger input or output ports on a
preamplifier, power amplifier, or both.
The DAC3 can send a 12 Volt DC trigger
signal to start other components in the
system, or it can wake up in response to an
externally generated trigger signal. The DAC3
automatically configures its trigger I/O port
as an input (slave) or output (master).
Trigger Output (DAC3 is Master)
When the DAC3 is turned on using the
POWER button (on the front panel), or the
ON button (on the remote), the DAC3
configures itself as a trigger master and will
drive the 12V TRIGGER I/O to 12 volts DC
and hold it there while the DAC3 is on. The
trigger output signal generated by the DAC3
is delayed so that the DAC3 can stabilize
before downstream devices (such as power
amplifiers) turn on. When powering down, the
DAC3 will mute before allowing the trigger
line to drop low. The DAC3 keeps the internal
power supplies running for 10 seconds after
dropping the trigger. This delay gives other
triggered components ample time to mute
and shut down.
If the AUTO-ON function is enabled, the
DAC3 will automatically turn on when AC
power is applied, configure itself as a trigger
master, and ignore any external signaling on
the 12V TRIGGER I/O line. In AUTO-ON
mode, the DAC3 will always drive the 12V
TRIGGER I/O line to 12 V (after a short
start-up delay).
Trigger Input - (DAC3 is Slave)
If the DAC3 is off and an external device
pulls the trigger I/O to 12 volts, the DAC3
will configure itself as a trigger slave and will
follow the actions of the trigger input. The
DAC3 will then turn off when the external
device stops sending the 12 V trigger.
Typical Trigger Applications
In most systems, the 12V TRIGGER will be
used to connect the DAC3 to one other
device. The DAC3 can be connected to the
first trigger input at the beginning of a trigger
chain, or it can be connected to the last

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 16
trigger output at the end of the chain (less
common).
Typical trigger applications:
•DAC3 →Amplifier
•DAC3 →Amplifier →Amplifier
•DAC3 →Preamplifier →Amplifier
•AVR →DAC3, and AVR →Amplifier
(AVR with 2 trigger outputs controls
DAC3 and power amplifier)
Trigger Bus Applications
The Benchmark bi-directional trigger system
also supports multiple trigger ports wired
together on a bus.
A group of Benchmark trigger ports can be
connected to a group of non-Benchmark
trigger input ports to form a single trigger
bus. A bus should never be connected to
more than one non-Benchmark trigger output
port. If an output port is connected to the
bus, this device should be used to start the
audio system.
A 3.5 mm (1/8") TRS "Y" cable can be used to
split the trigger output of the DAC3 to feed
more than one trigger input.
Benchmark AHB2 power amplifiers have two
trigger I/O ports that are wired in parallel.
This makes it easy to connect more than one
power amplifier to a trigger bus (without the
use of a "Y" cord). Connect a trigger cable
between the DAC3 and the first amplifier.
Use another trigger cable to connect this
amplifier to the next amplifier. Any number of
Benchmark amplifiers can be added to the
trigger bus. The DAC3 will turn on first, and
after a delay, all of the amplifiers will turn on
together.
Bi-Directional Trigger Applications
Benchmark products support bi-directional
communications over a trigger bus. Any
Benchmark product connected to the bus can
turn the entire system on or off. Because of
the bi-directional design, any power button on
a Benchmark DAC3 or AHB2 can be used to
start or stop the system.
The Benchmark device that starts the system
will become the trigger master. If the trigger
master is turned off, all slave devices will
follow. If a slave device is turned off, all other
devices will stay on.
If the DAC3 is used to turn the system on,
any connected AHB2 amplifiers will become
slave devices and they can be turned off
without shutting down the DAC3. This feature
makes it easy to turn the AHB2 amplifier(s)
off when listening to headphones.
Slave devices can force the entire trigger bus
to shut down if the POWER button or OFF
button is pressed and held for 3 seconds.
Tip: Press and hold the POWER button on
any Benchmark device for 3 seconds to force
a shutdown of the entire trigger-connected
system.
Trigger Specifications
The Benchmark 12V TRIGGER I/O has a
wide operating range to allow interfacing with
most other DC trigger systems. It should only
be used with trigger inputs that are designed
to tolerate 12 VDC.
•12 VDC 200 mA current-limited output
•Input responds to 3.3 V logic and
higher
•Maximum input voltage = 30 VDC
•Maximum reverse input voltage = -0.3
VDC
•Input Impedance = 20 k Ohms
•1/8" (3.5 mm) TRS jack
•Tip = 12 Volt Trigger I/O
•Ring = no connection
•Sleeve = chassis ground

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 17
HT Mode
The HT mode sets the volume control to a
calibrated level that is near its maximum
setting.
The HT mode has three distinct applications:
•Volume Control Bypass - useful
when the system has an upstream
digital volume control or a downstream
analog volume control
•Home Theater Bypass - allows high-
quality stereo playback on a system
that is also used for surround
applications
•Calibrated Output - useful in studio
applications where calibrated levels
are needed
In HT mode the analog gain is set to 0 dB
(unity gain, RCA to RCA). Digital inputs are
calibrated to +24 dBu at 0 dBFS (+4 dBu at
-20 dBFS) measured at the XLR outputs, and
2 Vrms measured at the RCA outputs. The HT
light is illuminated when the HT mode is
active.
Enabling the HT mode:
Each input channel can be programmed
individually by pressing and holding the
MUTE button for three seconds. The HT
mode is similar to the CALIBRATED switch
setting on the DAC1 except that the HT
mode can be programmable separately for
each input. This flexibility allows seamless
integration into home theater systems where
the DAC3 handles the main left and right
channels.
HT Mode - Volume Control Bypass
The HT mode is useful whenever the system
volume will be controlled before or after the
DAC3. It is usually best to avoid having two
cascaded volume controls in a playback
system. Dual controls will usually degrade the
noise performance of the system and they
can lead to confusion.
Tip: If the DAC3 feeds a preamplifier, the HT
mode would need to be turned on individually
for each input. Consider using the
COMPATIBILITY mode instead. The
COMPATIBILITY mode places all inputs into
the HT mode while also disabling the MUTE
and DIM controls.
If the DAC3 is directly feeding an amplifier,
but one or more sources have volume
controls, the sources with volume controls
can be set to HT mode.
Example 1: The USB input is fed from a
computer that has an internal digital volume
control. If you wish to use the volume control
in the computer exclusively, you will want to
program the USB input with the HT mode on.
All other inputs will have the HT mode turned
off. If you do not wish to use the computer
volume control, leave the HT mode off and
disable the computer volume control (or set it
to maximum).
Example 2: One of the analog inputs on the
DAC3 is fed from a preamplifier and the
preamplifier is being used to control the
system playback. Set this analog input to HT
mode on.
HT Mode - Home Theater Bypass
The home theater bypass is useful when you
have a home theater system that will also be
used for playing stereo recordings. The DAC3
will directly drive the left and right power
amplifiers while the AVR drives all other
speakers. The analog left and right line-level
outputs of the AVR will be connected to one
set of analog inputs on the DAC3 (usually
A1). Stereo sources will be connected directly
to the digital inputs on the DAC3. Surround
sources will be connected directly to the
inputs on the AVR.
When playing stereo recordings, digital feeds
are sent directly to the DAC3 and the volume
control on the DAC3 is used to control the
playback level (HT mode must be off on all
digital inputs). This configuration gives the
best-possible performance for stereo
applications because it eliminates the AVR

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 18
from the stereo playback chain. If the stereo
system includes a turntable and an outboard
phono preamplifier, the outputs of the phono
preamplifier can be connected directly to the
second set of analog inputs on the DAC3 (HT
mode off, analog input A2).
When playing movies and other surround
sources, analog signals from the AVR would
pass through the DAC3 at unity gain (HT
mode on, analog input A1).
For stereo applications, digital sources would
feed the DAC3 and the volume control on the
DAC3 would control the playback level (HT
mode off, digital inputs).
HT Mode – Calibrated Output
Any digital input can be set to the factory-
calibrated fixed-gain by turning the HT mode
on. In HT mode, the analog audio outputs are
set to factory calibrated levels. This mode is
useful in studio applications where calibrated
interface levels are used between various
pieces of equipment. (Note: This function is
similar to the calibrated mode on the DAC1.)
Preamp COMPATIBILITY Mode
This feature was added in Version 2.0. If you
have an older version, an update is available.
The COMPATIBILITY mode disables the
volume control when the DAC3 feeds a
preamplifier that will be used to control the
system playback volume. When this mode is
used with a Benchmark preamplifier or line
amplifier, such as the HPA4, a single
Benchmark IR remote can be used to control
both devices.
In COMPATIBILITY mode:
•HT mode is on for all inputs
•MUTE is disabled
•DIM is disabled
•Remote INPUT select arrows are
disabled
•The VOLUME knob will be driven to
the unity-gain HT position.
•As a safety feature, manual rotation of
the VOLUME knob will provide a
momentary override of the HT volume
setting. The knob will be driven to the
unity-gain HT position when released.
Enabling the COMPATIBILITY mode:
•Simultaneously hold the DIM/MUTE
and INPUT-UP keys for 3 seconds to
activate or deactivate this feature.
•The HT light will be illuminated on all
inputs when COMPATIBILITY mode
is enabled.
•The DIM/MUTE key will be disabled
when COMPATIBILITY mode is
enabled.
•The DAC3 will not respond to the
DIM, MUTE,VOLUME-UP and
VOLUME-DOWN keys on the IR
remote when COMPATIBILITY mode
is enabled.
USB MODE Selection
The DAC3 supports two USB MODES:
•USB Audio 1.1 mode - up to 24 bits
at 96 kHz
•USB Audio 2.0 mode - up to 24 bits
at 192 kHz plus DSD in DoP 1.1
format
Caution: Close all USB audio playback
applications before changing the USB MODE.
If an audio application is playing while the
USB MODE is changed, the audio application
may freeze.
Note: The computer and DAC3 must be
connected and both must be on before the
USB MODE can be changed.
To change the USB MODE, select the USB
(U) input on DAC3 and then press and hold
the USB button on the remote control for 3
seconds. If a remote control is not available,
simultaneously press and hold both INPUT
buttons on the front panel for 3 seconds.

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 19
After holding the button(s) for 3 seconds,
either the 4X lamp or the 2X lamp will flash
once indicating the new USB MODE. A flash
of the 4X lamp indicates that the unit is now
in USB Audio 2.0 mode. A flash of the 2X
lamp indicates that the unit is now in USB
Audio 1.1 mode.
Tip: The 4X or 2X lamp will flash once every
time the USB input is selected. This flash
provides a convenient indication of the
current USB MODE.
Tip: Avoid any unnecessary switching
between USB MODES. Rapid switching
between modes can confuse some operating
systems.
Driving Power Amplifiers
The DAC3 is designed to directly drive
virtually any audio power amplifier or
powered monitor. This direct connection
provides the cleanest and shortest path from
the digital source to the monitor output.
Tip: In most cases, Benchmark does not
recommend placing an audio device between
the DAC3 and the power amplifier. One
notable exception is the HPA4 line amplifier.
The HPA4 provides stepped relay gain control
with exceedingly low THD and noise. The
HPA4 provides the ultimate analog volume
control and it can operate transparently
between the DAC3 and a power amplifier.
The RCA and XLR outputs on the DAC3 are
equipped with low-impedance high-current
drivers. These robust outputs are well
equipped to drive a wide variety of input
impedances. The DAC3 outputs remain clean
when driving amplifiers that present difficult
loads (high input capacitance and/or low input
impedance).
The XLR outputs on the DAC3 are equipped
with jumper-configured passive low-
impedance output pads. These pads can be
set to an attenuation of 0 dB (pad off), 10
dB, or 20 dB. The pads should be used to
match the output level of the DAC3 to the
input sensitivity of the power amplifier. Most
power amplifiers and powered monitors will
require the use of the 10 dB or 20 dB pads.
Use the 0 dB setting when driving a
Benchmark AHB2 power amplifier.
Tip: The Benchmark AHB2 power amplifier
has a unique low-gain topology that allows it
to accept full studio-level input signals. This
high-level interconnection provides a very
low-noise connection between the DAC3 and
the AHB2. Set the input SENSITIVITY
switch on the AHB2 to 22 dBu (all the way
down). This places the AHB2 full-power
output point at an input level of 22 dBu. This
level is exactly 2 dB lower than the calibrated
HT output level of the DAC3 (when the pads
are set to 0 dB). This configuration optimizes
the gain-staging between the DAC3 and the
AHB2 while placing the DAC3 volume control
in the proper range.
Tip:If you are using a DAC3 with non-
Benchmark power amplifiers, the XLR pads
should be set so that comfortable listening
levels occur when the VOLUME control is set
above 11 o’clock. This will optimize the gain-
staging between the DAC3 and your power
amplifier.
Tip: Increase the pad setting if a comfortable
listening level is reached at a VOLUME
control setting below the 11 o'clock position.
Tip: Decrease the pad setting if a comfortable
listening level cannot be reached when the
VOLUME control is fully clockwise.
Instructions for setting the XLR pad jumpers
are detailed in the Internal Settings section
of this manual. The DAC3 is shipped with the
XLR pads disabled (set to 0 dB). No
adjustments will be necessary if you will be
using a Benchmark AHB2 power amplifier.
HPA2™ Headphone Amplifier
(DAC3 HGC model only)
The left headphone jack has a mute switch
that mutes all of the analog outputs on the
back of the DAC3. The right headphone jack

Instruction Manual for DAC3 HGC and DAC3 L with 2.X Firmware Page 20
does not have a mute switch. The audio output
on both jacks is wired in parallel and is driven
by Benchmark's HPA2™headphone power
amplifier.
The HPA2™ is one of the most transparent
headphone amplifiers available. It also is able
to deliver high current and/or high signal
levels making it well suited for a wide variety
of headphones. The near 0-Ohm output
impedance provides outstanding damping of
headphone drivers. This damping reduces
distortion while maintaining precise control of
the frequency response at the output of the
amplifier.
The HPA2™ has a set of 3-position gain-
range jumpers that can be used to increase or
decrease the gain by 10 dB relative to the
factory calibrated setting.
The jumpers change the gain of the HPA2™
headphone amplifier without changing the
output impedance. This keeps the output
impedance of the HPA2™ constant and very
near 0 Ohms. External attenuators should
never be inserted after a headphone amplifier
as this would change the output impedance
and alter the frequency response of the
headphones.
Proper gain settings are important for
maximizing the SNR of the headphone
monitoring system. With proper settings, the
full performance of the DAC3 can be
delivered to the headphones for critical
monitoring tasks and for maximum musical
enjoyment.
Tip: When the headphone gain jumpers are
set properly, a normal listening level will be
achieved at a VOLUME control setting above
the 11 o'clock position.
Tip: If a normal listening level is achieved
below an 11 o’clock VOLUME setting, the
headphone gain is too high, and the gain
should be decreased.
Tip: If the level is too low at the maximum
VOLUME setting, the headphone gain is too
low, and the gain should be increased.
Digital Pass-Through
The second coaxial input (D4) can be
reconfigured as a digital output. When
operating as an output, any selected digital
input is passed through to D4 without any
processing.
Optical, coaxial, and USB inputs (U, D1, D2
and D3) can be passed through to the D4
connector. The signals are buffered but are
not processed in any way. For this reason,
any data format can be passed through to the
D4 connector, even when these formats
cannot be decoded by the DAC3. Surround
formats, such as DTS, Dolby Digital, cannot
be decoded by the DAC3, but they can be
passed to a surround system using the digital
pass-through function.
The digital pass-through can also be used to
provide the following digital signal
conversions:
•Optical to Coaxial
•USB to Coaxial
•Coaxial to Coaxial (buffering)
DoP encapsulated DSD can also be passed
through D4. DSD files on a computer can be
sent in DoP to the USB input on the DAC3.
The USB input can be routed to coaxial
output D4. This output can be recorded by
any 24-bit, 176.4 kHz digital recorder with a
coaxial input. The PCM digital recorder can
then be used to play the DSD recordings.