Gustard
GUSTARD R26 Discrete R2R Decoder Streamer/Renderer
Best high-end R2R streamer for audiophiles seeking natural, detailed sound.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Gustard R26, a high-end DAC and streamer featuring a Discrete R2R architecture for a naturally rich sound. It supports MQA decoding and handles demanding formats like PCM up to 768kHz and Native DSD up to DSD1024. The R26 boasts a CPLD for precise signal management and clocking, alongside an ultra-low noise clock synthesizer for exceptional timing. Its analog output stage is refined with a discrete LPF design, allowing meticulous sound tuning. Available in elegant Silver or Black finishes, this desktop unit is crafted for discerning audiophiles.
$1649.91
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 489
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-62%
Below average
SNR
122
/ > dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking natural, analog-like sound signatures
- System builders needing a centralized digital hub
- Listeners prioritizing high-fidelity clarity and timing
Who should skip it
- Streamers requiring a polished, feature-rich software experience
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level pricing
- Users wanting a maintenance-free, set-and-forget device
Performance breakdown
R2R Fidelity
Discrete architecture delivers a remarkably organic and natural sonic texture.
Format Versatility
Handles everything from MQA to extreme DSD1024 with effortless precision.
Clocking Precision
Advanced CPLD management ensures jitter-free timing for a stable soundstage.
Connectivity Depth
Comprehensive input options integrate seamlessly into any high-end audio ecosystem.
Build Integrity
Substantial aluminum chassis provides excellent shielding and a premium desktop presence.
Streaming Integration
Built-in renderer simplifies digital playback without sacrificing high-resolution audio quality.
Key Specs
SNR
> 122dB
THD+N
≤ 0.003% @1kHz
Dynamic Range
> 115dB
Dimensions
330mm (W) x 260mm (L) x 65mm (H)
Weight
7.0 Kg
Maximum PCM Sample Rate
768kHz (USB/IIS)
Maximum DSD Support
DSD1024 (IIS)
Connectivity includes AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical, USB, LAN, and 10M Clock in (BNC)
Features
- Discrete R2R DAC for natural sound
- Native DSD up to DSD1024 support
- Integrated Streamer/Renderer
- MQA decoding capability
- Advanced CPLD clock management
- Ultra-low noise clock synthesizer
- Discrete LPF for detailed audio
- XMOS XU216 USB interface
What customers say
The GUSTARD R26 is hailed as a game changer due to its discrete R2R ladder, delivering an exceptionally musical and analog sound signature. Reviewers consistently praise its superb detail retrieval, wide soundstage, and rich textural nuance across the midrange and bass without sounding fatiguing. A major highlight is the integrated streamer functionality, which simplifies the audio chain and adds significant value. While minor software critiques exist, the overall build quality and proprietary clocking system are robust. The R26 successfully merges high fidelity R2R decoding with modern streaming convenience, offering performance that often surpasses much more expensive DACs for a natural and engaging listening experience.
Know before you buy
The Discrete R2R architecture replaces standard DAC chips with a precision-engineered network of resistors. This design is favored by audiophiles for producing a more natural, organic, and analog-like sound profile compared to traditional delta-sigma converters.
Yes, the R26 features an integrated streamer/renderer, allowing you to connect it directly to your network via LAN. This enables you to stream high-resolution audio files without needing an external bridge or computer connection.
The R26 supports native DSD up to DSD1024, but please note that this maximum sample rate is supported specifically through the IIS input. Other inputs may have different limitations, so check your source device's compatibility.
The 10M Clock input allows you to connect an external master clock generator. This is an advanced feature for users who want to further reduce jitter and improve timing precision beyond the R26's already high-performance internal clock synthesizer.
Yes, the R26 includes full MQA decoding capability. This ensures that MQA-encoded files are unfolded and rendered correctly to provide the intended high-resolution audio quality.
The R26 provides both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs. For the best performance and noise rejection, using the balanced XLR outputs is recommended if your amplifier supports them.
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$1650