I have used both the Bel Canto and the Benchmark and the benchmark is leagues ahead. Based on my own experience and several journal reviews, the Benchmark would be hard to beat at any price.
I use an apple tv, optical out to Benchmark. I have the Benchmark Pre, which enabled me to sell my Eastern Electric tube pre. If you went with the benchmark you could also eliminate your pre as long as one analog in would satisfy your needs. Free up some money for music