Benchmark HPA4
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Benchmark
HPA4
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The HPA4 is a no-compromise headphone amp and preamp for serious listeners. It's built like a tank, delivers absolutely phenomenal sound quality with near-zero distortion, and is perfect for audiophiles and recording engineers demanding the absolute best – if they're willing to pay for it.
Product Description
- Benchmark HPA4
- 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 gain control in 0.5 dB steps
- 100% Analogue
- Touch screen for an easy access to functions such as balance control
- input level offset
- input name
- dim function
- remote
- etc.
- Headphone outputs: 1 x TRS (6.3 mm jack)
- 1 x XLR (4-pin)
- THD < -125 dB (0.00006%)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: > 135 dB (A-weighted)
- Frequency response: -3 dB @ 0.1 Hz and 500 kHz
- Output impedance: close to 0 Ohm
- Max. output power: 6 W at 16 Ohm
- Crosstalk: < -133 dB @ 1 kHz
- -115 dB @ 10 kHz (XLR4)
- 2x Stereo line input (balanced
- XLR)
- 2x Stereo line input (unbalanced
- RCA)
- 1x Stereo line output (balanced
- XLR)
- 1x Stereo line output (unbalanced
- Cinch)
- 1x Mono sum output (balanced
- XLR)
- 2x Bidirectional 12 V trigger connections
- Balanced line outputs: distortion factor < -125 dB (0.00006%)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 137 dB (A-weighted)
- Frequency response: -3 dB @ 0.1 Hz and 500 kHz
- Output impedance: 60 Ohm
- Maximum input and output voltage: 20 Vrms (+28 dBu)
- Crosstalk: < -133 dB @ 1 kHz
- -116 dB @ 10 kHz
- Power requirement (nominal): 100 - 240 VAC
- 50 - 60 Hz
- Protection systems: DC and short-circuit detection
- overcurrent
- overvoltage and thermal protection
- IR remote for control with separately available Benchmark remote control (art. 501400
- not included in the delivery)
- Dimensions including feet (W x H x D): 22 x 10 x 21 cm
- Weight: approx. 3.7 kg
- Colour: Silver
PROS
- • Exceptional THX AAA amplification minimizes distortion for pristine clarity
- • 256-step relay gain offers incredibly precise volume control
- • Ultra-low output impedance maximizes headphone driver performance
- • Balanced XLR inputs/outputs ensure clean signal transfer and headroom
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most users
- • Limited feature set beyond headphone amplification and preamping
- • Relay-based gain control introduces a subtle click upon volume changes
Product Video
Key Features
Channels
2 Stereo
Power
6 W @ 16 Ohm
Impedance Range
0 Ohm (effectively)
Connections
2x XLR balanced inputs, 2x unbalanced inputs, 1x TRS output, 1x XLR4 output
Weight
Approximately 5.5 kg
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Frequently Asked Questions
The relay-based gain introduces a very subtle click when changing volume, which is generally unnoticeable with music playing, but might be distracting in quiet listening scenarios.
Benchmark prioritizes absolute accuracy and minimal coloration, whereas some competitors add a more 'musical' or 'warm' signature; the HPA4 is for those who want a transparent, reference-grade amplification.
The touchscreen is straightforward and responsive, offering easy access to essential functions, and the relay-based controls ensure long-term reliability compared to purely digital interfaces.
