Gustard R26 II 26-Bit Network Streaming DAC with R2R Architecture

Gustard R26 II - 26-Bit Network Streaming DAC with R2R Architecture

The ultimate evolution of Gustard's flagship R26—enhanced with R30's decoding module, advanced network bridge, and refined tuning for reference-grade audio performance.

The Gustard R26 II represents a significant upgrade to the acclaimed R26, incorporating cutting-edge technology from the flagship R30 model. This fully discrete R2R DAC delivers exceptional 26-bit audio conversion with enhanced network streaming capabilities, upgraded Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, and refined power supply design. Supporting DSD512 and PCM768kHz, the R26 II is engineered for audiophiles who demand the ultimate in digital-to-analog conversion with natural, musical sound that only true R2R architecture can provide.

Key Features

• R30-Derived 26-Bit R2R DAC Module: Incorporates the advanced decoding technology from Gustard's flagship R30, delivering exceptional linearity, natural tonality, and the organic sound signature that R2R architecture is renowned for—now with enhanced 26-bit processing for superior dynamic range.
• Fully Discrete R2R Ladder Architecture: True resistor-ladder DAC design eliminates the digital harshness of delta-sigma converters, providing smooth, analog-like sound with exceptional musicality and three-dimensional soundstage.
• Advanced Saier Network Bridge: Upgraded network streaming system ensures stable, high-quality audio transmission over Ethernet with support for all major streaming protocols and services.
• Bluetooth 5.1 Connectivity: Latest Bluetooth standard offers improved range, stability, and lower latency compared to previous versions—perfect for wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets.
• DSD512 & PCM768kHz Support: Handles the highest resolution audio formats including native DSD512 (22.5792MHz) and PCM up to 768kHz/32-bit, ensuring compatibility with all high-resolution audio sources.
• Comprehensive Digital Inputs: USB, optical (TOSLINK), coaxial (SPDIF), AES/EBU, and network streaming inputs provide maximum flexibility for connecting all your digital sources.
• Balanced XLR & RCA Outputs: Both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs allow seamless integration with any audio system, from desktop setups to high-end separates.
• Premium Power Supply Design: Upgraded capacitors and refined power delivery circuitry minimize noise and interference, creating a perfectly silent background that allows even the quietest musical details to emerge.
• Precision Metal Chassis: Robust aluminum construction provides excellent electromagnetic shielding and heat dissipation while maintaining an elegant, professional appearance (33×26×6.5cm).
• Remote Control Included: Convenient wireless remote allows easy input selection, volume control, and settings adjustment from your listening position.

Technical Specifications

What's in the Box

• Gustard R26 II Network Streaming DAC (1 Unit)
• Power Cable (1 Piece)
• Remote Control (1 Piece)
• User Manual (1 Copy)
• Warranty Card (1 Copy)

Sound Performance & Quality

The Gustard R26 II delivers reference-grade audio performance that reveals every nuance in your music:

• R2R Natural Tonality: The fully discrete R2R ladder architecture provides the organic, analog-like sound that delta-sigma DACs simply cannot match—with natural timbre, smooth treble, and three-dimensional soundstage.
• 26-Bit Enhanced Resolution: Upgraded 26-bit processing (inherited from R30) delivers exceptional dynamic range exceeding 130dB, ensuring even the quietest musical passages emerge with clarity and detail.
• Exceptional Clarity: Ultra-low distortion (< 0.0003% THD+N) and wide dynamic range ensure your music is reproduced with pristine clarity and zero coloration.
• Black Background: Upgraded power supply capacitors and refined circuit design eliminate noise and interference, creating a perfectly silent background that allows micro-details to shine.
• Balanced Output Advantage: XLR balanced outputs provide superior noise rejection and signal integrity, especially beneficial for longer cable runs and professional studio environments.
• Network Streaming Excellence: The upgraded Saier network bridge delivers stable, high-quality streaming with support for all major services—Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and more.

R2R DAC Architecture Advantages

The R26 II's fully discrete R2R ladder DAC represents the pinnacle of digital-to-analog conversion:

• True Resistor Ladder Design: Unlike delta-sigma DACs that use digital filtering and oversampling, R2R DACs convert digital signals directly to analog using precision resistor networks—resulting in more natural, musical sound.
• No Digital Filtering Artifacts: Eliminates the pre-ringing and post-ringing artifacts common in delta-sigma converters, delivering cleaner transients and more accurate timing.
• Organic Sound Signature: R2R architecture is prized by audiophiles for its ability to reproduce music with a sense of ease and naturalness that closely mimics the warmth of analog playback.
• 26-Bit Processing: Enhanced bit depth provides finer gradations in the digital-to-analog conversion process, resulting in smoother tonal transitions and improved low-level detail.
• R30-Derived Technology: Inherits the advanced decoding module from Gustard's flagship R30, bringing flagship-level performance to a more accessible price point.