Gustard
A26
Best high-fidelity streamer for audiophiles seeking uncompromising digital sound quality.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Gustard A26, a high-performance network streamer and balanced stereo DAC. Featuring dual AK4499EX chips and an AK4191 MQA decoder, it delivers immersive sound with exceptional clarity and imaging. The A26 supports Roon, UPnP, and HQ-Player NAA streaming, offering a transparent audio experience. Its professional design includes a sculpted aluminum housing and an intuitive interface. With versatile connectivity and balanced/single-ended outputs, it's an elegant centerpiece for any high-resolution audio system, providing rich musical detail and technical precision.
$1499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
83
/ 489
#83 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
DAC Chips
44994191
/ Dual AKEX + AK
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking clinical precision and expansive soundstage depth
- Digital listeners wanting a streamlined, all-in-one Roon-ready solution
- System builders requiring versatile connectivity for complex high-end setups
Who should skip it
- Owners with limited shelf space or poor ventilation options
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level high-fidelity value
- Users prioritizing a polished, proprietary app experience over Roon
Performance breakdown
Conversion Precision
Dual AK4499EX chips deliver industry-leading transparency and sonic detail.
Streaming Versatility
Seamless integration with Roon, UPnP, and HQ-Player covers every modern workflow.
Build Integrity
Sculpted aluminum housing provides a robust, vibration-resistant foundation for audio.
Connectivity Options
Comprehensive input and output suite handles complex high-resolution audio setups effortlessly.
Format Compatibility
Native support for DSD512 and full MQA decoding ensures future-proof playback.
Interface Usability
Intuitive touch controls make navigating high-resolution settings straightforward and clean.
Key Specs
DAC Chips
Dual AK4499EX + AK4191
Sample Rates
PCM up to 768 kHz; DSD up to DSD512
MQA
Decoding supported to MQA384
Streaming Protocols
Roon, UPnP, HQ-Player NAA
Inputs
USB-B, Ethernet, Coaxial, AES/EBU, Optical, IIS
Outputs
XLR (balanced), RCA (single-ended)
THD+N
-120 dB (USB in, XLR out)
Housing Material
Aluminum
Features
- Dual AK4499EX DAC chips for superior sound
- Roon Ready and UPnP streaming support
- High-resolution PCM and DSD playback
- Full MQA decoding capability
- FPGA-powered streamer for stable performance
- Balanced and single-ended audio outputs
- Intuitive touch controls and clear display
- Premium aluminum housing
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly celebrate the Gustard A26 for its exceptional sound quality and value within the high-end audio market. The audio reproduction is consistently described as detailed, natural, and featuring an expansive, three-dimensional soundstage. This sonic prowess, powered by dual AKM DAC chips, delivers a clean, dynamic, and musical presentation. Reviewers also value the robust build and the integrated network streamer functionality, which enhances its overall utility. While the initial cost is high, the consensus is that the A26 offers outstanding value, providing reference grade performance that rivals much more expensive equipment. It is recognized as a technical achievement delivering a truly audiophile experience.
Know before you buy
The A26 is Roon Ready and supports UPnP and HQ-Player NAA. This allows you to integrate it seamlessly into your existing network audio ecosystem for high-resolution streaming.
Yes, the device supports PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD up to DSD512. It also features full MQA decoding capabilities up to 384 kHz, ensuring compatibility with most high-fidelity digital formats.
Yes, it is equipped with both XLR balanced outputs and RCA single-ended outputs. This versatility allows you to connect it to a wide range of amplifiers and active speaker systems.
Using dual AK4499EX chips alongside the AK4191 decoder separates the digital and analog processing stages. This architecture significantly reduces noise and distortion, resulting in superior clarity, imaging, and overall musical detail.
It is a hybrid device that functions as both a high-performance DAC and a network streamer. You can connect it directly to your network via Ethernet to stream audio without needing a separate bridge or computer interface.
The A26 is highly versatile, featuring USB-B, Ethernet, Coaxial, AES/EBU, Optical, and IIS inputs. This allows you to connect everything from CD transports and digital players to computers and network servers.
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$1499