Gustard X18 DAC

GUSTARD X18 DELTA-SIGMA DAC

The Gustard X18 is a fully balanced desktop DAC built around the ESS ES9038PRO converter. Combining high-resolution USB playback, HDMI-format I²S, Bluetooth reception and balanced analogue outputs, it offers flexible digital connectivity for headphone and two-channel Hi-Fi systems.

ESS ES9038PRO CONVERSION

The X18 uses an eight-channel ES9038PRO DAC with a dedicated power supply for the conversion stage. Eight I/V conversion circuits, using OPA1612 operational amplifiers, handle the DAC's current outputs. Gustard also employs an Altera MAX V CPLD for digital signal processing, clock management and format handling.

HIGH-RESOLUTION USB & I²S

An XMOS XU216 USB interface supports PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz and native DSD512. The HDMI-format I²S input provides another high-resolution connection for compatible digital transports. AES/EBU, coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 24-bit / 192kHz, allowing the X18 to accommodate a variety of existing digital sources.

BLUETOOTH & DIGITAL FILTERING

Bluetooth 5.0 reception supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, AAC and SBC, making wireless playback possible from compatible phones and other devices. Seven selectable PCM filters and four DSD filter bandwidths allow users to customise digital processing. The X18 also includes MQA decoding for compatible source material.

PRECISION CLOCKING & BALANCED OUTPUTS

Two Accusilicon A5318-B oscillators provide precision clock references. Balanced XLR outputs deliver up to 5Vrms, while RCA outputs provide up to 2.5Vrms. Adjustable digital volume allows the X18 to be integrated with a variety of amplifiers, although fixed-level operation remains suitable when using an integrated amplifier or dedicated preamplifier.

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