Headphone amp/dac recommendation?

[jcebedo11]

Hello Im looking for a DAC/Headphone amp to replace my super old Benchmark DAC1. It must have headphone amp output, and balanced outputs. I actually really like the DAC1, the only thing i dont like about it is the amount of heat it generates. I think it contributes to heating up my small room. If I put chocolate on top of it, it definately melts it. My budget is under $300 and Im okay buying used.

 

[twsecrest]

I'm not sure your going to do better than your Benchmark DAC1, for a $300 budget.

 

[Berwhale]

You could wait for Amir to measure the SMSL C200...

SMSL C200 DAC/Headphone Amp

Full Moon today?? Out of the blue found this thing already for sale as I type on Amazon. Seriously it checks all marks IMHO including price. If it measures/performs up to our usually expected standard and the headphone amp is good ; this would be the Dac/Amp AIO to get. Better value than...

www.audiosciencereview.com

I think the other options with balanced outputs are a little over budget: Topping/ShenzenAudio EX5, Sabaj A10d/A20d, etc.

*edit* actually, A10d is in budget...

Sabaj A10d 2022 Version Review (DAC & Amp)

This is a review and detailed measurements of the 2022 revision of Sabaj A10d, balanced DAC and headphone amplifier. It was sent to me by the company and costs US $299. As you see this is a very nice departure from typical look of a desktop DAC. A large and nicely visible white 7-segment...

www.audiosciencereview.com

 

[staticV3]

*edit* actually, A10d is in budget...

Although the A10d's "Bal" out is a regular SE out disguising as Bal.
Not sure if OP would mind (he shouldn't, to be fair)

 

[Berwhale]

Although the A10d's "Bal" out is a regular SE out disguising as Bal.
Not sure if OP would mind (he shouldn't, to be fair)

I think the OPs request was for for balanced line, rather than headphone output because it's replacing a DAC1 which also has balanced line outputs.

 

[jcebedo11]

thanks for the recommendations. saves me a lot of time researching. Looks like the a10d is the most similar in terms of features.