Gustard R30 – Discrete R2R DAC

Gustard has introduced a new flagship model Gustard R30 – a discrete R2R DAC with a built-in streamer. The new product uses a 27-bit architecture in combination with an FPGA clock management system. The digital-to-analog converter supports PCM and DSD streams. The user can also select various operating modes via digital filters, including NOS (Non-Oversampling). Gustard R30 went on sale at a recommended retail price of $3,599.99.

A discrete ladder-type R2R module and a 27-bit complementary conversion architecture guarantee lively sound with natural timbres. The Gustard R30 DAC features a discrete output stage operating in pure class A. It also uses R2R relay volume control, which allows the new product to be used as a full-fledged preamplifier.

To improve phase accuracy, an FPGA clock control system is used, minimizing jitter and artifacts. An SC-Cut OCXO quartz oscillator is used in tandem with the GCLK-02 module, providing exceptional thermal stability and optimal processing of PCM/DSD digital streams.

The Gustard R30 DAC fully supports 1-bit native DSD format, up to DSD1024 via the IIS input and up to DSD512 via USB. The Gustard R30's switching capabilities include a USB-B port, coaxial, optical, balanced AES, IIS inputs, and a LAN port for network streaming. There is also a Bluetooth adapter for direct music streaming from mobile gadgets. For connection to the amplifier, both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR outputs are provided.

In cooperation with CelWare, Gustard has implemented its own network platform that supports Roon Bridge, Apple AirPlay, UPnP, HQPlayer NAA and other protocols, and also provides music playback from network servers and firmware updates.