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BENCHMARK - DAC1 HDR with HDR-VC

The DAC1 HDR is an evolution of the extremely popular Benchmark DAC1 PRE. 

The DAC1 HDR is an all-in-one reference-quality stereo pre-amplifier which brings together all the best features and performance of the award-winning DAC1 family with the convenience of an intelligent remote control solution. The DAC1 HDR combines some of Benchmark’s finest engineering accomplishments into one device: the DAC1 digital-to-analog audio converter with UltraLock™ clock system, AdvancedUSB™ computer audio playback interface, and the legendary HPA2™ headphone amplifier. The unique remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR is built around Benchmark’s new HDR-VC™ (high dynamic range volume control).

HDR-VC™ High Dynamic Range Volume Control
The DAC1 HDR features Benchmark’s HDR-VC™ (High Dynamic Range Volume Control) which is built around a custom-made motorized Alps potentiometer. The DAC1 HDR’s motor-driven volume control allows the DAC1 HDR to unleash the truly outstanding dynamic range of the converter and audio output.  By contrast, digital volume controls would reduce dynamic range, and analog volume ICs introduce distortion and noise.

Benchmark’s product designs have achieved unprecedented sonic purity due to an uncompromising engineering philosophy: eliminate digital distortion artifacts, establish a pristine analog path, and maintain sonic integrity regardless of external factors. The DAC1 HDR continues this tradition of excellence.The remote control solution of the DAC1 HDR has an intelligent implementation of dimming and muting. The ‘Dim’ (quiet) and ‘Soft-Mute’ settings of the remote control can be easily adjusted independent of the normal volume setting. The DAC1 HDR remembers and recalls your specified ‘Dim’ setting. This feature is ideal for HDTV users, as it allows you to set your preferred ‘Dim’ level for commercials, etc. The ‘Soft-Mute’ function fades down the volume to the ‘Dim’ level before muting and smoothly raises the volume to the normal level after unmuting.  With a generous offering of inputs and outputs, the DAC1 HDR serves as the heart of expansive media and entertainment systems, optimizing the signal path from the various sources to the amplifier. The DAC1 HDR will enhance the audio performance of your digital television, digital cable box, DVD/CD player, computer, music/media server, satellite radio, and any other device with a digital audio output. Also, the HDR-VC™ will control the pristine path for an analog source, such as a phono stage, FM tuner, iPod, VCR, tape deck, etc. All digital inputs on the DAC1 HDR (including the USB) feature Benchmark’s jitter-immune UltraLock™ clock system.  The USB interface features Benchmark’s AdvancedUSB™ native 24-bit, 96-kHz USB technology. The DAC1 HDR features a high-current output stage designed to drive even the most difficult loads. Other features include selectable headphone gain ranges and an auto-mute function for muting the main outputs when headphones are being used.