GUSTARD R26 II - DAC R2R Decoder/Streamer

The Gustard R26 II is an advanced R2R DAC and network player designed for audiophiles who want uncompromising digital-to-analog conversion combined with broad playback functionality. It uses a 26-bit fully discrete R2R resistor network design that provides a clean, analog signal path and natural sound character – an alternative to more common delta-sigma DAC techniques that often introduce digital artifacts. The R26 II handles high-resolution audio with PCM formats up to 32 bit/1536 kHz and native DSD up to DSD2048 via the I²S input, preserving the detail, dynamics and atmosphere of the original recording. The DAC features extensive connectivity options, including USB-B, LAN/Ethernet, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, I²S and Bluetooth 5.1 with support for LDAC, aptX and AAC, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs for integration into both simple and more advanced systems. A built-in network module with support for protocols such as Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP and Spotify allows you to stream music directly over the network without an external transport. The R26 II is also equipped with a highly accurate GCLK-02 clock with external 10 MHz BNC input for improved time stability. Separate transformers for the digital and analog sections, as well as carefully designed power supply circuits, minimize interference and noise, providing a stable and quiet background that further enhances the quality of the music. The R26 II is thus a flexible and high-performance DAC solution that can serve as the centerpiece of a modern high-end audio system – from high-resolution file playback to network-based streaming. GUSTARD DAC R26 II in brief * Fully discrete R2R-DAC (26-bit): Discrete resistor network for pure analog signal path, low distortion and high linearity. * Extremely high resolution support: PCM up to 32bit/1536kHz, DSD up to DSD2048 native via I²S. * Precision clock GCLK-02: Internal clock with external 10MHz BNC input for minimal jitter and maximum timing stability. * Separate digital/analog power supply: Dedicated PSU circuits for low interference and quiet background. * Wide range of connections: USB-B, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, I²S, LAN/Ethernet and Bluetooth 5.1 (LDAC/aptX/AAC). * Balanced/unbalanced outputs: XLR and RCA with high signal integrity and low noise. * Network and streaming protocols: Roon Ready, Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP and Spotify support for direct digital playback. * Full-featured remote control. Package includes: * 1x Gustard DAC R26 II * 1x remote control * 1x Bluetooth antenna "The Gustard R26 II is not just a minor refresh—it's a comprehensive upgrade that brings flagship R30 technology, enhanced 26-bit processing, upgraded network streaming, and refined tuning to an already excellent platform. For those building a new system or seeking the ultimate in R2R DAC performance without stepping up to the R30, the R26 II represents exceptional value. The incorporation of the R30's decoding module alone makes this a significant leap forward, and the cumulative effect of all six upgrades is immediately audible. The original R26 remains an excellent DAC, but the R26 II takes everything that made it special and elevates it to near-flagship status. If you're in the market for a reference-grade R2R DAC with comprehensive connectivity and future-proof design, the R26 II deserves serious consideration." The HiFi Cat (Jan 2026)