GUSTARD R26 II 26-Bit Discrete R2R Network Streaming DAC

GUSTARD R26 II Network Streaming DAC

The GUSTARD R26 II is the definitive evolution of the acclaimed R26, incorporating the advanced decoding module from GUSTARD’s flagship R30. This fully discrete 26-bit R2R DAC delivers exceptional digital-to-analog conversion with upgraded network streaming, Bluetooth 5.1, and a refined power supply design. Supporting native DSD512 and PCM up to 768kHz, the R26 II is engineered for audiophiles who demand natural, musical sound – the organic signature that only true R2R architecture can provide.

26-Bit Fully Discrete R2R Architecture

At the heart of the R26 II lies a 26-bit fully discrete R-2R resistor ladder derived from the flagship R30 – four times the resolution of the original R26. Unlike delta-sigma converters, the R-2R ladder performs direct, instantaneous conversion of digital signals to analog, eliminating digital harshness and filtering artifacts for a clean, natural, and richly musical presentation with a dynamic range exceeding 130dB.

Native 1-Bit DSD & Hi-Res PCM Processing

A dedicated DSD processor handles true 1-bit DSD signals with full precision, bypassing PCM transcoding for a pure signal path. Native DSD64–DSD512 is supported via USB and LAN, with staggering DSD2048 available through the I²S interface. PCM support reaches 32-bit/768kHz, and extends to 32-bit/1536kHz over I²S – compatibility with virtually any high-resolution source.

All-New Network Streaming Bridge

Developed in collaboration with CelAudio, the upgraded network bridge runs an optimized Linux kernel for stable, prioritized streaming. It supports Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA, Spotify Connect, and HQPlayer NAA, letting the R26 II act as a dedicated high-end streaming DAC with the amplifier placed right next to your speakers.

GCLK-02 Precision Clock Architecture

The R26 II uses GUSTARD’s Femto Clock Technology with the GCLK-02 module, achieving PLL locking accuracy within 1Hz and ultra-low jitter across all digital interfaces. A dedicated 10MHz BNC clock input accepts an external master clock (50Ω, CMOS square wave or sine) for systems where clock control is handled at a higher level.

Dual Toroidal Transformers for Clean Power

Dual independent toroidal transformers provide dedicated power to the digital and analog sections, isolating the D/A conversion process from electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. Paired with upgraded low-ESR premium capacitors and multi-layer filtering, the result is a blacker background where even the quietest musical details emerge with ease.

Class-A Discrete Analog Stage

The fully discrete Class-A analog output stage features a Class-A low-pass filter with zero op-amps in the signal path, ensuring pure, natural tone with a rich, organic character. Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs integrate seamlessly with amplifiers, preamps, and active speakers.

Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC

Bluetooth 5.1 provides convenient wireless playback with LDAC support for transmission up to 96kHz, along with AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX LL, and aptX HD – easy high-quality listening from phones and tablets without additional hardware.

Comprehensive Inputs & Outputs

A wide input array covers USB Type-B, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical (TOSLINK), I²S, RJ45 Ethernet, and Bluetooth, with fixed-level balanced XLR (4.0Vrms) and RCA (2.0Vrms) outputs. The full-width aluminum chassis includes vibration-damped feet and front touch controls, available in Black or Silver.

Measured Performance

The R26 II delivers reference-grade measured performance: THD+N below 0.0003% (1kHz A-weighted), signal-to-noise ratio and dynamic range above 130dB (A-weighted), and a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz within ±0.1dB – pristine clarity with zero coloration.

Specifications

• DAC Architecture: 26-bit fully discrete R2R ladder (R30-derived module)
• DSD Support: Native DSD64–DSD512 (USB/LAN); up to DSD2048 via I²S
• PCM Support: Up to 32-bit/768kHz (up to 32-bit/1536kHz via I²S)
• Digital Inputs: USB Type-B, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, I²S, LAN (Ethernet), Bluetooth 5.1
• Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR (4.0Vrms) + RCA (2.0Vrms)
• Bluetooth: 5.1 with LDAC (up to 96kHz), AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD
• Network Streaming: Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA, Spotify Connect, HQPlayer NAA (CelAudio bridge)
• Clock: GCLK-02 Femto Clock, PLL locking within 1Hz; 10MHz BNC external clock input (50Ω)
• THD+N: <0.0003% (1kHz, A-weighted)
• Dynamic Range: >130dB (A-weighted)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >130dB (A-weighted)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• Output Impedance: <100Ω (RCA), <200Ω (XLR)
• Analog Stage: Class-A discrete, zero op-amps in signal path
• Power Supply: Dual independent toroidal transformers with premium low-ESR capacitors
• Power: AC 100–240V, 50/60Hz; <20W
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 330 × 260 × 65 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg
• Colors: Black, Silver

What's Included

• GUSTARD R26 II network streaming DAC
• Power cable
• Remote control
• User manual
• Warranty card