Gustard X18 Review (Stereo DAC)

[REK2575]

Interesting. If the X18 has this 'hybrid' analog-digital attenuation, is there a benefit to that? Or is it a design limitation? It's hard for me to imagine why it's not either all analog or all digital.

 

[dsnyder0cnn]

Interesting. If the X18 has this 'hybrid' analog-digital attenuation, is there a benefit to that? Or is it a design limitation? It's hard for me to imagine why it's not either all analog or all digital.

As I said, I don't know for sure, but it's not difficult to imagine some advantages. Analog attenuation generally has good channel tracking and low distortion for the first 10-20 dB but, depending on implementation, can struggle a bit (as we 've seen with measurements in these pages) as attenuation approaches -ထ dB. Digital attenuation eventually decimates the sample data, which has the effect of reducing signal to noise ratio a bit. However, a solution that uses analog attenuation for the first ~20 dB and combines that with digital attenuation from there to -ထ dB might be the best of both worlds.

Of course, it's also possible that I'm full of crap. If so, I'm confident someone will set me right.

 

[dsnyder0cnn]

do you notice a very slight 'skip' or 'cut out' in signal when dialing the volume from -22dB to -21dB (or vice versa)

I just tested, and I hear exactly the same thing in exactly the same place. Between -22 and -22 dB.

 

[Roland68]

I just tested, and I hear exactly the same thing in exactly the same place. Between -22 and -22 dB.

The only components I can't identify that could fulfill this function are the ones marked in the picture. I actually assumed they were switches, but together with the relays, that doesn't make sense.

Perhaps someone can post a picture with legible labeling, if one exists.

 

[Sharok]

This question may have been asked before, can I use either Gustard X18, X26 Pro, or smsl su-10 with my home speakers and amplifier (Anthem P5) or one is better than the others for that purpose?
Do all three DACs have a NOS mode?

 

[Gradius]

The only components I can't identify that could fulfill this function are the ones marked in the picture. I actually assumed they were switches, but together with the relays, that doesn't make sense.

Perhaps someone can post a picture with legible labeling, if one exists.
View attachment 435917

Without a description on them, or a real good zoom, it will be impossible, other than asking directly to Gustard's.

They could be Analog Buffers (to isolate signals and maintain impedance matching).

 

[Gradius]

Checking again, it could be a SPDT analog switch or multi/demultiplexer bus switchers:

https://www.onsemi.com/products/interfaces/analog-switches/nc7sb3157

They use 2 of them for each XLR port:

pin1: ground/shield
pin2: + (or hot)
pin3: - (or cold)

But then, I'm not 100% sure.

 

[mrribbits98]

I just received a new X18. So far it's great. I did notice that when I hit the power button a 2nd time, it goes to fixed (max) output mode (EDIT: NOPE. It goes to MUTE! My bad). That is great! I did not see that mentioned in any reviews, so I wonder if it's a new feature/firmware. I'm not sure if it remains in that mode after powering down and back on, I have to check that tonight.

 

[archerious]

I just received a new X18. So far it's great. I did notice that when I hit the power button a 2nd time, it goes to fixed (max) output mode. That is great! I did not see that mentioned in any reviews, so I wonder if it's a new feature/firmware. I'm not sure if it remains in that mode after powering down and back on, I have to check that tonight.

View attachment 474325

Lovely setup. Would you mind explaining/listing the gear? It looks very classy and clean.

 

[mrribbits98]

Lovely setup. Would you mind explaining/listing the gear? It looks very classy and clean.

Thanks for the comment! Happy to list my gear!

Digital:
Hi-res streamer: iPad 10th Gen (USB)
Airplay2 streamer: Airport Express 2nd Gen (Toslink)
CD transport: Rega Apollo-R MK1 (Coax)
DAC: Gustard X18

Analog:
Turntable: Rega RP3 with all Groovetracer upgrades
PSU: Rega NEO MK2
Cart: Ortofon 2M Black MM

Preamp: Rogue Audio RP-5
EQ: Schiit Lokius
Amp: Rogue Audio DragoN
Loudspeakers: Rega RX5

 

[PeterNL]

Gustard X18 (+/- 350€ second hand) vs Topping DX5 II (225€ second hand) to use with Audiophonics HPA-S250NC (RCA and XLR) ?
Connecting to miniPC with Dirac Live installed.

 

[Roland68]

Gustard X18 (+/- 350€ second hand) vs Topping DX5 II (225€ second hand) to use with Audiophonics HPA-S250NC (RCA and XLR) ?
Connecting to miniPC with Dirac Live installed.

That's a decision no one can make for you.
The Gustard is good and proven, but it doesn't have an HPA.
The DX5 II has a powerful HPA and a PEQ, which you probably don't need. It's also €125 cheaper (why is it already being sold used for such a low price?).

If you wait too long, both will be gone.