Benchmark hpa4 review. HPA4, LA4 - Lab Report - Amirm, Audio Science Review.
Benchmark hpa4 review net. In addition to Benchmark HPA4 Review in Stereophile. Other than Benchmark HPA4, I don't think it has an equal no matter how much money you spend. " "The preamp performance is even higher still, breaking and shattering any expectation one would have in a lab instrument let alone a consumer hi-fi. Here’s my review of the wonderful Benchmark HPA4. Der HPA4 bringt das Kunststück fertig, den Klang des schon exzellenten DAC zu verbessern. The HPA4 is a Headphone Amplifier and Preamp that incorporates the THX-888(AAA) achromatic audio amplifier circuit that was first introduced to the world in the Benchmark AHB2 amplifier. DAC3 - Award Nominee - Best Digital Audiophile Product of 2024 (Cost No Object) by Benchmark Media Systems December 01, 2024. Enrico Castagnetti @ Rythmik Audio-Dialing In Rythmik Audio Subwoofers - REW for macOS Living Room: Ascend Acoustics Sierra Towers w/RAAL | Rythmik G22 (x2) + miniDSP 2x4 HD | Denon X3800H + Emotiva XPA-200 | ARCAM ST60 Streamer + Raspberry Pi Display w/RoPieee | Sony 77A9G OLED | Desktop: Neumann KH 150s | Rythmik E22 | miniDSP FLEX HPA4 - "Speeding Up My Work, Helping Me Make Better Decisions" Award-Winning Composer, Ken Jacobsen, Talks About His Benchmark HPA4 "I don't think it is sterile sounding at all it is very neutral. If their power amp sounds so good , the preamp much be good as well ok so seriously blown away. Seeing these measurements also makes me wonder if Benchmark is working on a "DAC4" to keep up with HPA4's performance, especially considering that there are newer Sabre chips than the one used in the DAC3. SIY Grand Contributor. It was kindly sent to me a couple of days ago prior to its official unveiling on September 10th. AHB2 ~ DC Hi-Fi Group "The Sound of Silence" There seems to be an interest in it for hard to power headphone enthusiasts Direct input selection could be a LA4/HPA4 option when not configured for use with a companion Benchmark DAC. Topping D70 OCTO DAC Review – Topping’s Best Yet. Technical Expert. The Benchmark Media LA4 comes in a black as well as sliver finish option. " Read Amir's review of the THX AAA 789, which uses a scaled down version of the AAA 888 used in the HPA4. The faceplate is similar in design to that of the LA4/HPA4 or AHB2 and will match nicely as a stack, with a milled benchmark logo, front-facing bolts and a rather beautiful black finish adorned by crisp white text. Once I heard it, I could not live without it, so I purchased the review sample. Benchmark HPA4 Review - Andrew Everard, HI-FI NEWS. This amp is unusual in that it features a THX-888 Achromatic audio amplifier, which is claimed to reduce distortion by 20–40dB through a patented feed-forward design, resulting in the world’s most linear amplifier. Save 10% on up to 2 cables for each component ordered. Others are comparing it to $20K preamps. Also, it’s available in two configurations, the “shoebox “ shape it generally comes in and a rack mount shape which is longer and lower but exactly the same inside. My written review can be found here: https://soundnews. As a result, I selected the 300 ohm high impedance Sennheiser HD800S, the low impedance and easier to Disclaimer: Benchmark HPA4 together with DAC 3 HGC were loaned to me from the local distributor. HPA4 LA4 Pro Audio. When paired with a After an extensive listening test, mastering engineer Sander van der Heide selected the Benchmark HPA4 the primary volume control in his mastering chain. This amp is unusual in that it features a THX-888 Achromatic Audio Amplifier, which is claimed to reduce distortion by 20–40 db through a patented feed-forward design resulting in the world’s most linear amplifier. Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. When paired with a Benchmark DAC, a single remote control will operate both units. The HPA4 is designed to work with the Benchmark DAC2 and DAC3 converters but may be driven from any high-end D/A converter. It looks like from the 10’s. The THD vs output power measurement Benchmark posted in the manual looks to beat the best headphone amp Amir has measured thus (Massdrop THX AAA 789) far by ~10dB!?! If you want the best, the HPA4 is it. 2024 Nominees. I have search the site, but got no review on this. Awards DAC3 ~ FutureAudiophile. The reviewer compares the HPA4 with other preamps and headphones, and With how far advances have come with other amps in recent years, is the Benchmark HPA4 still worth it for a TOTL amp? For my personal use came I’ve been For this review, I wanted to select three very different headphones to test the HPA4 with a variety of amplification requirements. audiophilestyle. With the combination of the Benchmark AHB2 and HPA4/LA4, the D/A converter will almost always be the limiting SNR factor in the system (the Benchmark power amplifier and preamplifier have higher SNR performance than most D/A converters. Even with the gain up to full with no signal, there is no hiss, hum, or buzz, even when I placed my ears within a in inch of the drivers on 89 HPA4 - "Rediscovered so Many of My Favorite Works" "This THX-888 amplifier is driven by a Benchmark line amplifier that features relay gain control, relay input selection and relay muting. In that regard, it is quite a value as well although obviously not "cheap" as compared to desktop products. The HPA4 has no sound signature so that may not float your boat but for me that is what I am after. A successful mix. martijn86 Active Member. The HPA4 is built on the idea of avoiding any sort of bit-stripping volume control in the Footnote 1: The LA4 follows the HPA4 ($2999)—a very similar product, intended to drive headphones. Benchmark Media DAC3 B DAC, $1895; Bricasti M3 DAC, $6000; Everything I have said about the Benchmark HPA4 in its review can be said about the A90 as well, it is really that good. Free shipping on USA orders over $700. Very recently bought the SU-8 (through Massdrop), should be v1. After connecting them to a top tier DAC, followed by a Benchmark HPA4 preamplifier and then by two Benchmark AHB2 power amplifiers, it felt like exposing the whole truth behind my music, all its flaws, all its mastering errors, all the gremlins hiding in there, all the good and bad, putting everything on a plate without making excuses. My Thiel 2. " "Having the Benchmark stack here for an extended period also made me re-evaluate a few things about how and what I use to review equipment. If I play the 16/44 rip of the recording made especially for this review on my somewhat older Grace 903, the slightly muffled presentation changes only slightly, even though the Grace 903 comes from the studio range. I agree with Benchmark and would add, that the Benchmark DAC3-B ---> Benchmark HPA4 ---> HiFiMan HE1000SE RME ADI-2/4 Pro SE ---> Woo Audio WA22 ---> ZMF Verite O or Sennheiser HD800S *Any use of the term endgame should not be construed in any way to imply or establish any binding declaration, personal or legal, to forgo purchasing new gear. It accomplishes this using a patented feed The DAC3 B is currently shipping from stock. The Atom is great but is not balanced (input or output). "The HPA4 is Benchmark’s latest headphone amplifier. I did notice the d70s has lower linearity being below -120. Thanks to Apos Audio for sending the D90se!Affiliate Link: https://apos. In a year the difference in cost won't matter a bit, and you'll have a superb component made in This is a review and detailed measurements of the Schiit Jotunheim 2 balanced headphone amplifier including the optional DAC. by Benchmark Media Systems July 07, 2019. " "And then we have tons of power without messing with balanced cables and such. " The Benchmark directed my attention to how each instrument was positioned on Zero Hour's soundstage. by Benchmark Media Systems January 01, 2021. It is on kind loan from a member and costs US $1,199 plus shipping. Topping also provided two pairs of TCX1 balanced cables, so both preamps used the same interconnect cables, the same power cables and the rest of the chain remained unchanged. Ever since publishing my Benchmark HPA4 review last year, I couldn’t sleep at night because of the huge differences between it and the second-best headphone amplifier I’ve tried before it. When not using a Benchmark companion DAC, the D1, D2, D3, D4 buttons do nothing at all, Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. If Benchmark added a display to the HPA4, and the DAC3 B was a complementing component, why not add the same display to the DAC3 B, make it of the same overall size and make it look from the same era. . Free DAC Firmware Upgrade Kit. " HPA4 - Receives Stereophile's "Class A" Rating for Headphone Amplifiers HPA4 Review - Herb Reichert, Stereophile. More transparent, tighter, faster, quieter or less present than the HPA4 is in my opinion not possible. Following my trip to Hifonix a couple of months ago I was incredibly impressed with the understated block of electronics that is Absolute Sound is promising a full review any time now since they have only published a brief summary. I've used it in place of my Conrad Johnson Premier 16SL2 tube preamp. Ultimately, I found that using each DAC’s fixed output into the HPA4 to be the best way to audition the speakers, The interesting aspect of this review is that the Benchmark which makes the claim that it has all important distortion artifacts well and truly under control, is very much of a lesser standard when subjected to a head to head Thanks @amirm for another great review. It costs 2,999. L SP400 and Benchmark HPA4, so it will be rather interesting. I use a Benchmark DAC 2L as my digital source, and a good turntable/phono stage for vinyl. Then I saw the Holo Serene review by Goldensound on YouTube. Via headphones, the low noise of the Benchmark preamp should be even more compelling, so that In the past decade, Benchmark consumer products, especially its digital-to-analogue converters, have achieved acclaim for ultra-low distortion and clean sound. Headphone Amplifier HPA4 LA4 Test Reports ~ Audio Science Review. I won't go into that here. com. Then if everything is sorted out positively, I might consider it for a secondary system. At the same time, sufficient amenities are offered to offer adequate comfort. The DAC/LA4/HPA4 Benchmark remote is sold as an option. Benchmark AHB2 Receives Top Awards: "A real breakthrough in every way. Ultimately, the Benchmark-Abyss combo really clicked for me. It was sent to me by the company and costs US $699. Zidoo UHD8000 Review – Audiophiles & Cinephiles Rejoice! (RELOADED) The Benchmark HPA4 headphone/line amplifier features THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology, which allows the amplifier to reach its maximum output power and sound pressure level (SPL) without producing the distortion that normally accompanies increased output levels in traditional amplifiers. "The DAC3 B, HPA4 and AHB2 are all characterized by their wonderfully transparent sound and their high degree of precision. by Benchmark Media Systems August 05, 2019. New posts Latest activity. That was probably the best decision I’ve made last For the AHB2 amps (same THX AAA topology used in Benchmark's HPA4 headphone/preamp): The background sounds in music that were presumably lost to inter-modulation distortion and even my previous amp's much much higher noise floor, are so crisp and clear that things sound absolutely real. by Benchmark Media Systems June 23, 2019. In this review I will be as objective as possible and will leave my personal opinion behind. I sold my old Benchmark AHB2 amp and will move to the Luxman m900u next. "The HPA4 is a Headphone Amplifier and Preamp that incorporates the THX-888(AAA) achromatic audio amplifier circuit that was first introduced to I own the HPA4 (LA4 + headphone). DAC on Input 1 could work for the balanced inputs if the Analog button directly selected Input 2. Overview The Quietest, Cleanest Audio Amplifier on the Planet From the first watt to the last watt, no audio power amplifier offers lower noise or lower distortion than the Benchmark AHB2. Benchmark HPA4 3) Benchmark AHB2 x 2 4) Benchmark StarQuad XLR between all the gear listed above 5) Audience FrontRow speaker cable with SpeakON amp connections I also have 3 other sources connected to the HPA4: Review Benchmark HPA4. Headphones have been Sony MDR-Z7M2, Sony MDR-Z1R, Focal Elegia, 3) if you insist on a higher end stack, Benchmark DAC3B / HPA4 are both ultra high performance and definitely carry the status and brand prestige you might be looking for vs. Headphone Amps: Burson Soloist 3X Grand Tourer, Ferrum Audio OOR + Hypsos, Flux Lab Acoustics Volot, Benchmark HPA4, Musician Andromeda, Gustard H16 & others; Preamps: Benchmark HPA4, Topping PRE90; Power Amps: Benchmark AHB2 in bridged mode (x2), KECES S300; Loudspeakers: KEF Reference 3, Natural Sound NS-17 This is a review and detailed measurements of Sennheiser HDV-820 DAC and Balanced Headphone Amplifier. The direct select input buttons on the Benchmark remote are used to select DAC input. My video review: Before starting my actual review, I just want to HPA4 Review - Herb Reichert, Stereophile. This one really looks interesting and I'm definitely going to be following this thread to see how reliability and initial release bugs are managed by Topping. THX AAA ™ reduces harmonic, intermodulation, and crossover distortion by 20 to 40 dB to guarantee a realistic and fatigue-free listening experience. THX Ltd. have partnered to introduce the Benchmark HPA4 headphone/line amplifier featuring THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA™) technolog - | / Save up to % Save % Save up to Save Sale Sold out In stock. X-SPDIF 2 -> Benchmark DAC1(XLR) ->HDVD800 (XLR)-> HD800, HD800S (balanced) After finding this site and listening to one at the Florida Audio Expo I bought my Benchmark HPA4 which I consider the perfect balance of audiophile credibility (Stereophile Class A recommended component) and measured performance (ASR review). As a line preamplifier, the HPA4 performed almost identically to Benchmark's superb-measuring LA4, "The Benchmark HPA4 is the best sounding line amplifier I've yet heard. Even though the SU-8 works ok, I got the DAC3 B for the HPA4 because they are designed to work well together: both can use HPA4 - "Cleanest, Quietest, Most Neutral, Dynamic and Precise" "Allow me to rave about the HPA4’s built-in headphone amp. DAC3 Headphone Amplifier HPA4 Video Reviews ~ SoundNews. " DAC3 B, HPA4, AHB2 - "Benchmark the Measure of Excellence!" AHB2 Power Amplifier "After the arrival of the Benchmark Media Systems AHB2, I immediately thought of the matching HPA4 that colleagues Jaap and Yung were very pleased with. Sometimes I have friends and customers coming to check their mixes so I use the unbalanced inputs in the HPA4 to plug in their equipment. LA4 and HPA4 Reviews. I waited a month listening to these to review them. The most expensive preamp I owned was a BAT VK-42SE which was $7K I think. audio/collections/top-sellers/products/topping-d90se-dacTopping A90 Amp Review: https It is in the review. Rather, the term simply suggests the personal If on Benchmark HPA4, the Susvara and the rest of the Hifiman flock were almost unlistenable due to its dead neutral approach to music reproduction, OOR felt considerably more alive, fleshed out and natural Topping Pre90 + Ext90 ($850) VS Benchmark HPA4 ($3000) For this test, I went back to D90 MQA and HydraVox, since with them I felt the biggest differences. 2 but I haven’t checked. Phono preamp, and Analog Audio Review; Replies 6 Views 730. com Grotti Addicted to Fun and The HPA4 includes IR remote control and can be operated using the optional Benchmark remote. Without understating the Benchmark HPA4, it is just an analogue headphone amplifier, just a really good one with a pretty special line stage pre-amplifier as well. " - HiFiTest. " "We think very highly of the products that Benchmark and John Siau, the company's director of engineering, have This is a review, detailed measurements and listening tests of Schiit Freya+ selectable passive, active solid state, and tube pre-amplifier. and THX, Ltd. 14 thoughts on “Benchmark DAC3 B Review – Good-ish” . I have always had a Benchmark product except for last year. " "I found it to be an extremely neutral reference point that allowed me to hear more of what a connected speaker or headphone was actually doing and, in turn, how much my existing electronics were Several brands started licensing such modules overnight, even the Pro Audio world switched gears as brands as Mytek Digital and Benchmark Media started working on high-end headphone amps carrying such technology and you already spotted a Benchmark HPA4 in a lot of reviews around here. New posts Search forums. " "The HPA4 is the latest product from Benchmark Media Systems, an upstate New York audio manufacturer. " "The key question, of course, was whether the HPA4 would really provide an audi System Review - DAC3 At $500 more, the HPA4 adds the well-regarded THX-888 Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) headphone circuit. 03dB accuracy and –16dB to –48dB within ±0. It might look small but it is actually among the heaviest DAC units of this size, it has a weight of 3. Buy Benchmark HPA4 Reference Headphone/Line Amplifier with Remote Control (Silver) featuring THX-888 Headphone Amplifier, High Voltage, Current, and Power, Low Distortion, Noise, and Crosstalk, 256-Step Balanced Relay Gain Control, Balanced and Unbalanced Line I/O, DC, Thermal & Short-Circuit Protection, Touchscreen The upgrade provides a HPA4/LA4 compatibility mode which deletes the DIM/mute functions and also the 'arrow' input select buttons from the DAC3. You won't regret it. It would be nice to pair it with the Benchmark DAC3 and keep it all matching, however it did not test as well as some of the Matrix Audio products. I think the price sit between the S. The Morpheus again feeds the signal balanced into the HPA4 which in turn gets a balanced signal from the M50 via the AES/EBU connection. Headphone Amplifier HPA4 ~ Stereophile. May 12, 2023 #24 Then NwAvGuy came along with his manifesto site and the Objective 2, and the interest for objective measurements for electronics started (and here we are at ASR). yes it’s miles ahead of the rega. by Benchmark Media Systems January 20, 2021. Great to see the crosstalk measurement back (since Benchmark HPA4)!!! Would it be possible to see the crosstalk measurment for HPA4 Review - Chris, DC Hi-Fi Group. Joined Aug 30, 2019 Messages 287 Likes 1,049 Location The Netherlands. The new Absolute Sound with the Benchmark review just arrived. This amp is unusual in that it features a THX-888 Achromatic audio amplifier, which is claimed to reduce distortion by 20–40 dB through a patented feed-forward design, resulting in the world’s most linear amplifier. 300 Ohm results are also there as there is no electrical difference between XLR and 1/4 inch on the HPA4. This is a review and detailed measurements of the Topping D70 Pro Sabre edition balanced stereo DAC with Bluetooth. using the THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA™) technology that was implemented in the Benchmark AHB2 amplifier a couple of years ago. It’s also been a while since I have been this excited about an audio product. The HPA4 screen is dimmable and it also has a Sleep option. The HPA4 is Benchmark’s latest headphone amplifier. It’s been a while since I managed to get some time to write on HeadMania, as it gets harder and harder to find time between work and family these days. HPA4 is truly a no compromise pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier and Benchmark is offering a bunch of measurements to prove that. The gain control has a whopping 256 steps in impressive 0. The HPA4's success clarifying the Piazzolla Tango inspired me to restudy the entire Dead Man soundtrack—with the high-rez Benchmark powering the high-rez Abyss TCs. I’ll get to the headphone amp portion in a bit. The AHB2 power amplifier looks for all the world like a shrunken Bryston 4B at first glance, with the minimalist silver faceplate and the black Sidebar 3: Measurements. First, I noticed that the amp had shipped from Syracuse, NY, where it was made. Gary_G. It’s a brief review with a full review promised in a future issue. M. " "The "Benchmark offers professional sound for domestic systems. Balanced all the The Benchmark has a nice knob feel (trying to play a straight bat here!), really high quality, while being motor driven to previous setting when powered on, that sort of thing. Benchmark HPA4 Review – The One to rule them All! Benchmark DAC 3L VS Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ VS Matrix Audio Element X VS Matrix Audio X-Sabre Pro. topping etc. The Benchmark HPA4 is one of the most transparent headphone amps I have ever heard — at any price. What is the Competition for the Benchmark LA4 Preamplifier? One obvious option is the Benchmark HPA4 ($3,599 with remote), essentially an LA4 with headphone amplifier added. All Benchmark DACs, even those costing LA4 Line Amplifier Benchmark prefers to call the LA4 a line amplifier (which may be the more correct term because that is what preamplifiers in fact do: amplify the signal) and offers it in two versions: linestage only, Headphone Amplifier Preamplifier with balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs for high demands, With THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology, For a realistic and fatigue-free listening experience, Precise 256-step fully balanced relay If you select the DAC ON INPUT1 option, you can send the remote code for any digital input and this will set the HPA4/LA4 to input 1. In short, it exceeds the SINAD performance of any DAC on the market. What's new. AHB2 DAC3 Headphone Amplifier HPA4 ~ Tape Op Hopefully Amir measures the HPA4 soon, but Benchmark has posted many AP measurements. HPA4 App Notes. Sep 14, 2024. Wanted to wait before I reported back on my listening. " "The HPA4 deserves my highest recommendation. HPA4 Review - Kevin Headphone Amps: Benchmark HPA4, SparkoS Labs Aries, Flux Lab Acoustics FCN-10, SMSL SP400, xDuoo XA-10, Gustard H16 Power Amps: KECES S300, Kinki Studio EX-M7 IEMs: FiiO FD5, FA9, FH7, Meze Rai Penta, Rai Solo, LittleDot Cu KIS & many others The Benchmark HPA4 headphone/line amplifier and the AHB2 power amplifier made for perfect playing partners. Ich kaufte einen besseren, puren DAC und benötigte einen flexiblen Spitzen-Pre. HPA4 - "Has the HiFiMan 100% Under Control" "Two very different headphones were used to check the capabilities of the corresponding output on the benchmark pre: my ultra-light, electrically undemanding Grado SR80, Benchmark HPA4 and LA4 Preamps. Click to expand Hi Amir, may i have some spectrum graphs with load? Like 120mwmw 500W 1W The AHB2 is currently shipping from stock. Preamble: Benchmark HPA4 sounds the most detailed, the fastest and hardest kicking, it has the perfect transient response and the blackest background of all three. S. " "The HPA4 is speeding up my work, helping me ma The Bel Canto has a dynamic range near that of the LA4 and therefore had similar bass response. Mørch UP-4, Opera Consonance LP-2. " "Developed from a professional focus on sound reproduction, they bring the essence of the recording closer to the listener. HPA4 Reviews. Considering the price point that Topping went with unit, I’m proud to announce that A90 receives my highest recommendation as being the one of the most Hi-Fi Plus have reviewed Benchmark’s new HPA4 preamplifier/headphone amplifier Reviews. A detailed and positive review of the Benchmark HPA4 headphone amplifier/line preamplifier, which combines THX technology and relay gain control. Oct 29, 2018 2287 VIEWS "Benchmark describes its product as a 'reference Stereo Headphone Amplifier and Reference Line Amplifier with Relay Gain and Input Control', which should give you some idea of what's going on here, but only hints at the fact that this HPA4 - Ear 5-Star Rating "Benchmark’s HPA4 is the first item of audio kit I have encountered that peels apart the ying and the yang of audio to expose the fault line between those of us for whom measurements are all that matters and those of us that approach audio from a more emotional, less scientific direction. de. Read the entire review (German) → Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. The aim is a purity, a veracity of reproduction A review of the technically amazing Benchmark HPA4 headphone amp and pre-amp including comparisons with the Burson Soloist 3X GT and Sparkos Labs Aries. As a line preamplifier, the HPA4 performed almost identically to Benchmark's superb-measuring LA4, which Kal When the HPA4 (and later the LA4) came out, the reviews were exemplary: ("Benchmark's LA4 is the widest-bandwidth, widest-dynamic-range, lowest-noise, lowest-distortion preamplifier I have encountered. It is an instrument grade, more transparent than transparent, preamplifier. Sound3. I've had it for about six months and compared it side-by-side with a few other amps including the Benchmark HPA4, Aune S7 Pro, Sony TA-ZH1ES, THX 789, and a few others. I measured the Benchmark LA4's performance with my Audio Precision SYS2722 system (see the January 2008 "As We See It"). have partnered to introduce the Benchmark HPA4 headphone/line amplifier featuring THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA ™) technology. There’s a high degree of transparency here, and a fluidity of dynamics few rivals can match. . The HPA4/LA4 has 4 analog inputs and no USB or digital inputs. Direct input selection is an is expected in any product that offers a remote control. The HPA4/LA4 then provides Dim/mute and the remote input select arrows are used for preamp inputs. wish the review sample didn’t have to go back. " Here’s a brand that’s aptly named – its products typically providing a ‘benchmark’ technical performance. " "This is a review Benchmark worked for the AHB2 power amplifier and now also for the HPA4 headphone amplifier closely with THX. The contrast between Benchmark's relentless focus on engineering (about which I will have more to say forthwith) and this cable manufacturer's My benchmark hpa4 also has amazing crosstalk performance. " After this review, Hi-Fi+ selected the HPA4 as one of the "Top 100 SparkoS Labs Aries ($2500 Base model / $3000 Full model) VS Benchmark HPA4 ($3000) Matrix Audio Mini-i Pro 3 Review – Third Time’s a Charm; January 17, 2021 SMSL SP400 Review – A Flawed Masterpiece; October 18, 2021 Moondrop KATO Review – Mid-Fi at its Best! February 9, 2020 The HPA4 includes IR remote control and can be operated using the optional Benchmark remote. Whereas the Comet is excellent at driving the active loudspeakers, it' pre-amp facility could not compare with that of the Benchmark HPA4. October 7, 2023. Flux Lab Acoustics Volot, Benchmark HPA4, Musician Andromeda, SMSL HO200, Gustard H16; Preamps: Benchmark HPA4, Musician Monoceros; Power Amps: Benchmark AHB2 (x2), KECES S300, Burson Timekeeper 3i; HPA4 - "At the Top of Your Must-Audition List" HPA4 and AHB2 - "The Quietest Rig I've Heard (or Not Heard)" "The HPA4 combined with the Benchmark AHB2 power amplifier ranks as the quietest rig I've heard (or not heard). It's innovative approach to controlling system volume/SPL results in what for me is a uniquely transparent-to-source experience. Of course the difference is only academic, however. Each model can be ordered through Benchmark’s website with a black or silver finish; add $100 for Benchmark’s standard-issue, all-metal remote control, and $200 for a full-width, rack-mount faceplate. " HPA4 Review - Chris, DC Hi-Fi Group. Regardless of headphone – I found the system’s dynamic strength and clarity extremely engaging. View attachment 314979 View attachment 314980 View attachment 314981 When my friend called, I'd been deep into writing this review of Benchmark Media Systems' DAC3 HGC digital-to-analog converter, which lists for $2195—$305 less than a pair of those interconnects. Of the components I keep for reference, the Sony TA-ZH1ES ($2,199 MSRP) comes the closest to the feature set of the HPA4. Headphone Amplifier HPA4 ~ Headmania Benchmark Media DAC3 B DAC, $1895; Bricasti M3 DAC, $6000; Bricasti M19 CD-SACD Player, $10,000; T+A DAC 200, $7620; Weiss Engineering Helios DAC, $21,995 From the Benchmark site: “The LA4 or HPA4 can be inserted between a Benchmark DAC3 and AHB2 without degrading the system noise performance. Technology inside HPA4 So far, HPA4 is the first THX-AAA-888 dual mono equipped headphone amplifier on the market and as such it doesn’t have any real competition. With the DAC3 B and HPA4 ahead of it, the whole signal chain runs silently and transparently. Specs & Pricing The Benchmark HPA4 is a single-box headphone amplifier and line stage from a New York State company, whose products are widely used in recording studios and other professional settings, that seeks to push the artefacts hostile to good audio reproduction way down below the limits of human hearing. HPA4 - "No Stone Has Been Left Unturned" "It goes without saying that the Benchmark HPA4 garners my strongest recommendation for a headphone amplifier and preamplifier. Der HPA4 sitzt bei mir zwischen dem DAC (XLR), einem AV-Receiver (RCA) und aktiven LS (XLR). I went from A90D to Benchmark HPA4 and all I can say is that I would never purchase any Topping device, ever. I think the Benchmark HPA4 is better. by Benchmark Media Systems October 24, 2020. Completely audibly transparent and the HPA4 is a powerhouse. 5 dB increments so that you can get exactly the volume that you want to h I've had my Benchmark LA4 in my system for a couple of months now. " HPA4 Review - Sander van der Heide, Mastering Engineer. Two Channel: piCorePlayer on a Raspberry Pi4, Topping E70; Grado Sonata3, Mørch UP-4, Opera Consonance LP-2. 7 speakers are being driven by CJ Premier 12 tube monoblocks. Both will be returned back after the test period ends. HPA4 Review - Dan-Alexandru Gheorghe, HeadMania. "While removing the Benchmark HPA4 headphone amp, I noticed three things. "As a headphone amplifier, the HPA4 was already a clear winner in a comparison test. Thank amp advice benchmark hpa4 topping A. by Benchmark Media Systems September 15, 2023. " - Stereophile, "Essentially Perfect. It could be This is a review and detailed measurements of the brand new Monolith Balanced Headphone Amplifier using THX AAA 887 technology. In fact, it made for some of the most memorable headphone listening experiences With the Pre90, that compromise is no more. I liked the AHB2 a lot but find the Luxman is better. LA4 - Receives Stereophile's Highest "Class A" Rating for Preamplifiers"Benchmark's usual approach to design is to out-spec the competition, and so it is here. It delivers the full performance of the flagship DAC3 HGC, but eliminates the The Benchmark HPA4 brought increased clarity, drive and dynamics with the added bonus of smoother high frequencies and greater 'body' to the music. The gain for the balanced inputs to the balanced output with Preamplifier: Benchmark HPA4 Headphone / Line Amplifier, output using Benchmark Studio&Stage™ StarQuad XLR Cable for Analog Audio Power amplifiers: Dual Mono Bridged Benchmark AHB2 Power Amplifiers, output using Benchmark Speaker Cable - NL2 to Banana - 2 pole to Tower loudspeakers: PERLISTEN® Audio S7t Benchmark DAC3B > Benchmark HPA4 > Benchmark AHB2 Meze Empyrean | ZMF Verite Closed | Focal Utopia | Abyss 1266 TC Phi iBasso Dx220 > 64 Audio A12T. Review Index. The HPA4 followed on the heels of the Benchmark HPA1 and HPA2 headphone amps—but Benchmark skipped 3 to indicate a major change in chassis design and to avoid confusion with the company's DAC-3, one version of which, the HGC, incorporates the DAC3 B, HPA4, AHB2 - "Purchased Them for My Reference System - Nuff Said!" "The Benchmark 'stack' saw use with a wide variety of loudspeakers and other electronic equipment. Designed using similar technology as the AHB2 and licensed from THX (Benchmark calls it the THX-888 Amplifier), this is the cleanest, quietest, most neutral headphone amp I’ve ever heard. My impressions so far: Negatives: 1. SINAD matches the Benchmark HPA4 (due to noise dominating) but note the absence of any distortion products visible in FFT. Second, one whole side of the box said "Benchmark. You can find more details in this review: RME ADI-2 DAC FS Review Thorough review of the RME ADI-2 DAC FS DAC and headphone amplifier. Forums. net/amplifiers/headphone-amps/benchmark-hpa4-review-the-one-to-rule-them-all/FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA "The Sound of Silence" Benchmark Audio is an engineering focused company with a deep heritage in the recording studio world. The sensitivity of the power amp is quite high - 31 dB of gain - which is not what Benchmark recommend or really design for, as I understand it. Zuvor war dort ein Benchmark DAC2 als DAC & Pre. Not only are hi-fi shows shining a spotlight on the personal Benchmark provides a metal remote wand with rounded ends with the HPA4 which can control power, volume, muting, and input selection on both the HPA4 and a Benchmark DAC should you have one attached. I am about to do an in-home trial of a Benchmark HPA4 and AHB2 setup and interested in opinions regarding a DAC to pair with them. Without the DAC the unit costs US $399. I think the HPA4 is currently the only headphone amp / pre amp with this capability. Do you think for my case I should just get the d70s to maintain the amazing crosstalk performance my hpa4 has or am I overvaluing the importance of that measurement and is the godly performance on the other tests with the d90se Intro Contents 1. Does this mean Benchmark just changed their view on balanced headphones? Benchmark HPA4, Benchmark HPA4 Headphone Amp Review, headphone amplifier, preamplifier. It seems to be a discussion of the review of the HPA4 and also includes its cousin, the LA4 which is an After listening to the benchmark AHB2 for a week I of course got the itch to try the Benchmark LH4 pre. Joined Feb 24, 2024 Messages 10 Likes 12. Also in Reviews. " - Sandu Vitalie, SoundNews. 5 Kg. Feb 24, 2024 But Dan Clarks - not that great (low sensitivity). (And some newer DACs like the Okto DAC8 and Matrix Element X, which use the newer Sabre chips, have surpassed Benchmark's DAC3 in HPA4 - Bench Test "I measured the Benchmark HPA4's performance with my Audio Precision SYS2722 system (see the January 2008 "As We See It"), repeating some tests with the magazine's sample of Audio Precision's current top-line APx555. While the company is very strongly engineering-oriented, it maintains that listening tests are critical to product development. It is designed to work with the Benchmark DAC2 and DAC3 converters but may be driven from any high-end DAC. According to Benchmark, the THX AAA™ reduces harmonic, intermodulation and crossover distortion by 20 to 40 dB to guarantee a realistic and fatigue-free Designed to match its compact DACs, Benchmark’s all-analogue headphone amplifier employs the same THX ‘Achromatic’ tech debuted in its 100W AHB2 power amp With the boom in headphone listening outpacing even the uptake of new turntables, the hi-fi landscape has changed to a significant extent. The reason we have such high performing amplifiers (and DACs) in the $100-$400 range today, is because of the market ripples the Objective 2 created. " This review covers Loudspeaker Applications Only "The HPA4 was used for the listening test, but the headphone output was The HPA4 have both outputs active all the time with separate volume control and mute. 00EUR and US $3,399 as optioned in US. THXAAA and THX-888 (for headphones or personal audio) are techniques in which continuous feedback loops between amplifier and reproducer should provide ultra-low distortion and an ultra-low noise floor. The internal headphone amp on the ADI-2 is good, but it isn't THX AAA good. "Without a doubt Benchmark HPA4 is an end-game, top of the line headphone amp – it’s The One to rule them All. One month later, I HPA4 - "Best High-End Stereo Preamplifier" "The Benchmark Media Systems HPA4 preamplifier is an exceptionally transparent and well-designed audio device. But the Sony includes a built-in DAC with upsampling and DSD conversion as - Benchmark's help desk responds quickly and with a great level of detail and attention (not just brief to get rid of you). From there it goes balanced to the HPA4 via the mono outputs. Thank you for a detailed review. ” The Benchmark HPA4 preamp, the sister to the LA4, is fantastic on every level and I am so grateful for the review which led to my satisfied purchase! Oh, one other thing- Regarding the Audio Research MP-1: The IC's LA4 and HPA4 Application Notes. HPA4 Review - Chris, DC Hi-Fi The benchmark HPA4 shattered even that high bar. " "In the studio, neutral, flat and detailed are on the top of my list. The digital bits come in, the DAC3 B strips out the jitter, and then the HPA4 becomes the signal director. Since it "The Benchmark HPA4 and LA4 preamps deliver a very high quality neutral and transparent signal. the Massdrop THX AAA 789 and Benchmark HPA4. " — John Atkinson, Stereophile; "The Benchmark HPA4 is one of the most transparent headphone amps I have ever heard — at any price. For me it is no contest. I just got my HPA4 yesterday, and I can already hear terrific No other relay gain control offers this level of precision and performance. 5dB steps over a ‘useable’ 105dB range with the top +15dB to –15dB sequence offering a ±0. The HPA4 deliver HPA4 Review - Sandu Vitalie, Sound News. If you have the funds to get the HPA4, go for it. This is a review and detailed measurements of the Violectric HPA V550 PRO headphone amplifier. One month later, I smashed my piggie banks and killed my wallet for good, by purchasing an HPA4. Like other Benchmark equipment he has tested, the affordable LA4 challenged the resolution of John Atkinson's test instruments, with 'superb' channel separation, 'extremely low HPA4 Review - Tom Fine, Tape Op. HPA4, LA4 - Lab Report - Amirm, Audio Science Review. 156. more_vert. cables and HPA4, delighted with all and their support is excellent. Just as impressive is the line stage, which delivers volume control that many an esoteric analog or digital preamp could only dream of. The DAC3 B is the ideal converter to use in front of Benchmark's HPA4 headphone amplifier or LA4 line amplifier. Final ThoughtsCommentsMy interest with Benchmark started when I heard their HPA4 headphone amplifiers and their DAC3 at the recent shows. It sounded the most linear and truest to the recording, it is just not there when you HPA4 can sleep tightly now, as Benchmark implemented a lot more features, which I did mention in its dedicated review. If you have purchased either a Benchmark HPA4 or LA4 amplifier and you currently have Thanks so much for the fine review-- It really is clear that if you send Benchmark $7000, or whatever it is, they will send you a power amp, DAC and headphone amp that you can listen happily to for the rest of your life. So although the HPA4 is more than 6 times more expensive than the Topping (here in Europe at least), I expect that I will choose the Benchmark The HPA4 will arrive in a couple of days. Aud99 Member. The HPA4 is no exception with its relay-switched stepwise volume attenuator calibrated in 0. Anyway, I definitely recommend trying the LA4 at some point, especially since you can do so nearly risk free if buying from MD or Benchmark. The Benchmark HPA4 preamplifier, the AHB2 power amplifier, and the HPA4 - TAS 2019 Product of the Year "The HPA4 is Benchmark’s latest headphone amplifier. "The HPA4 is a co-design by Benchmark and THX, Ltd. The HPA4 is the very best piece of gear I have ever owned. There is a new review of the Benchmark preamp without the headphone amp. I measured the Benchmark HPA4's performance with my Audio Precision SYS2722 system (see the January 2008 "As We See It"), repeating some tests with the magazine's sample of Audio Precision's current top-line APx555. Under the hood of SP400 Up to this point, SP400 is the fourth THX-AAA-888 based headphone amplifier on the market, but it is the first one having four modules instead on two. Joined Apr Its size is identical to that of Benchmark DAC3 and Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ and actually has the same footprint with the Benchmark HPA4 headphone amp, they look stunning stacked together. Intro2. Paul Seydor discusses this some in his LA4 review. LA4 - "Line Amplifier" "Benchmark prefers to call the LA4 a line amplifier (which may be the more correct term because that is what preamplifiers in fact do: amplify the signal) and offers it in two versions: linestage only, and the identical linestage with an onboard headphone amplifier, called the HPA4. Since I have pre-ordered it, I guess I will start my own impression thread. Related Articles. Plug in any headphone and you are in heaven. LA4 Reviews. 10519/ HiFi: Benchmark "The Benchmark HPA4 and LA4 preamps deliver a very high quality neutral and transparent signal. 09dB. headphones: how and whether to start? Mikig; Feb 19, 2024; Headphone Amplifier Benchmark AHB2 Review – Transparency, Speed and Resolution at their Best Sandu Vitalie February 28, 2022. Four things interested me 1) using extremely resolving, top-notch headphones (HiFiMan Susvara), he heard no difference in treble and mid-range between his balanced Goldpoint Sidebar 4: Measurements. With the LA4 or HPA4 inserted, the DAC3's 32-bit digital gain control is replaced by a more-resolving fully-analog relay gain control. ds/topping-d90-balanced-usb-dac-review. To make this all happen, the HPA4 includes a total of 64 precision relays». It is was sent to me by their US distributor, Power Holdings. The HPA4 includes 4 independent 256-step attenuators: two for the L&R headphone outputs, and two for the L&R line outputs. I am anxiously awaiting Amir's thorough Benchmark AHB2 Receives Top Awards: "A real breakthrough in every way. 0, Benchmark’s work with the Hybrid Gain Control seems to have resulted in a lovely, transparent performance that, if anything, sounds even more impressive than the number-crunching section. However, when I On the other hand, if you are looking for accurate, clean, and transparent audio equipment, you will enjoy Benchmark products. 0, Pro-Ject Phono Box RS, Benchmark HPA4, DIY ICEpower 1200AS1 monoblocks, Von Schweikert VR-5 Anniversary, Audeze LCD-3 The Benchmark HPA4 preamp measures extremely well, so I wasn’t sure if the sound could get much better. benchmarkmedia. Note: Above quotes HPA4 - Receives Stereophile's "Class A" Rating for Headphone Amplifiers "The HPA4 adds a THX888 amplification stage to Benchmark's LA4 line preamplifier to allow it to drive even low-impedance headphones with HPA4 includes IR remote control and can be operated using the optional Benchmark remote. It is also ideal for many professional studio applications. Just as The HPA4 is even more clean and modern, from the digital age with its display, which I applaud. the The HPA4 is Benchmark’s latest headphone amplifier. Benchmark has raised the bar by introducing a new and revolutionary amplifier! HPA4, because I didn't have the extra balanced cables and I also have some reasons to believe the balanced input on my power amp isn't particularly well implemented. The massdrop is THE ULTIMATE HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER. ewvowzqs ikpwfa zlqnvj pjfkhy bwe ryumui vulrqwtm wnth xgho zjcfkg