Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

Compared to their other products

We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.

DVA M225 Mono Block Solid State Amplifier

  • Positioning: Entry-level option designed for compact setups and moderate room sizes.
  • Description: Features a straightforward solid state design that delivers clean power output and efficiency for smaller environments. Compared to the higher-powered DVA M750 and control-focused DEMO CA1, its lower wattage and simpler circuitry make it ideal for buyers with limited budgets and modest sonic goals.

DVA M750 Monoblock Power Amplifier

  • Positioning: Mid-range amplifier offering increased power for larger rooms.
  • Description: Uses advanced circuitry to provide higher wattage and refined sonic performance, making it more appropriate for users needing a larger soundstage. In contrast to the entry-level solid state option and the control amplifier's added functionality, its focus is on pure power.

DEMO CA1 Control Amplifier

  • Positioning: Versatile control amplifier suited for integrated system setups.
  • Description: Features a dedicated control section that simplifies input management and precise volume control, catering to users who value flexibility in connectivity and room configuration. When compared to the power amps that focus solely on signal amplification and the preamplifiers with tonal shaping features, it provides an accessible balance of function and cost.

FET Valve CFR Preamplifier

  • Positioning: High-end preamplifier that merges FET and valve technologies for a balanced sound.
  • Description: Offers a unique blend of solid-state and tube characteristics that appeals to listeners aiming for a vintage tone with modern clarity in small to medium setups. Relative to the simpler power and control amplifiers, its advanced tone shaping and refined circuitry give it an edge for buyers seeking technical sophistication.

Vision RB Preamplifier

  • Positioning: Flagship preamplifier delivering the most advanced technical performance in the lineup.
  • Description: Incorporates state-of-the-art circuitry and premium components to ensure precise signal control and exceptional sound purity, making it suitable for large, demanding environments. When set against the FET Valve CFR and other amplifiers, its enhanced processing and feature set place it at the highest investment level.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

The DVA Digital Preamplifier is easily the best DAC that AVA has ever produced — and is quite possibly the best anywhere. So, if it's a DAC, why are we calling it a "digital preamplifier"? The DVA Digital Preamplifier is a DAC with a variable output level. This means it can be connected directly to a power amp for music lovers listening to digital sources — essentially taking the place of a conventional analog preamplifier.
  • Inputs: One USB input (galvanically isolated), Two S/PDIF RCA coaxial inputs (transformer isolated), Two TOSLINK optical inputs
  • Format Compatibility: PCM up to 192kHz (coaxial and USB) or up to 96kHz (optical), DSD256/128/64 (USB only)
  • XLR Output Level: 11.2V zero-to-peak at maximum volume
  • XLR Load Impedance: 4kΩ or higher (balanced), 2kΩ or higher per hot/cold output (differential)
  • RCA Output Level: 5.6V zero-to-peak at maximum volume
  • RCA Load Impedance: 2kΩ or higher
  • Power: 120 VAC
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Average Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used Products
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Founded

Our take on the brand

Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
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Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
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What if you spend a bit more?

Wandla
2933
2933
/
16
Reviews
Ferrum
Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Unique features and impressive performance in a compact form factor
  • Exceptional build quality
  • Larger, responsive, and intuitive touchscreen UI
  • Considered by one reviewer to be the best sounding DAC they have heard under $3,000
  • Genuinely neutral and lifelike sound signature, without compromising resolving capability

Product Considerations

  • Expensive, at $2,800 or 2,800 euros, which is a significant investment
  • Limited display viewing angles, due to using a TN panel instead of an IPS, VA, or OLED
  • Hypsos power supply is a subtle upgrade, not necessarily worth the extra cost unless already owning other Ferrum products
  • Stock power supply is not as good as the Hypsos

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Gustard X18, Wandla lacks the sterile presentation, offering a more genuine neutral sound
  • Compared to EverSolo DAC Z8, Wandla is closer to a true neutral sound signature and overall more realistic sounding
  • Compared to Holo May KTE, Wandla was happily trading blows on outright soundstage size, and resolution was pretty much on par
  • Compared to Chord Dave, Wandla provides similar sound and performance at a more attractive price
  • Compared to Rockna Wavedream Signature, Wandla has similar liquidity and refinement but at a fraction of the price

Takeaway: The Wandla is an impressive DAC focused on sound quality, offering a number of unique features and customizability options. It is a great option for those looking for high end sound in a small package.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Wandla
page
Product Page
DAC204
3495
3495
/
12
Reviews
Weiss
Weiss Engineering is a Swiss hifi brand known for its DACs that incorporate advanced DSP features like room correction and vinyl emulation, which are uncommon in other high-end DACs. Their products are praised for their precision and clarity in sound reproduction, with users noting their ability to make every track sound natural and balanced.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Precise, accurate, and musical sound, delivering what the disc or file was created to sound like
  • Excellent jitter suppression, getting the most out of digital sources
  • Versatile, it can be used as a digital format converter
  • Weighty, full-bodied—tape or vinyl-like—sound

Product Considerations

  • The stock power supply can be improved with a higher quality 6 to 9 volt supply or the Weiss PSU-102
  • High-resolution sampling frequencies via USB of 352.8 and 384 are down sampled to half their value at 176.4 and 192
  • May be a bit too harsh, even for some systems

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Some reviewers preferred the Weiss DAC204 to the Chord Dave due to impressive detail and holographic 3D imaging, although the Weiss is not as sharp or dynamic
  • The DAC204 is considered to be on the same level of sound quality as the Chord Hugo 2 and Chord Cutest
  • The DAC204 sounds just like the 501, despite being significantly less expensive and lacking the DSP, preamp, display, and remote control features
  • The Weiss DAC204 is more open, dynamic, and punchy, while the Meitner is all about the midrange with beautiful and rich vocals
  • The Weiss DAC204 brought more of everything making music sound more present, more physical, and more engaging in comparison to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt DAC
  • The main difference noted between the Weiss and the Totaldac d1-unity was one of body and weight

Takeaway: The Weiss DAC204 is a compact and versatile DAC that delivers high-end sound quality. A good fit for those who want a DAC that provides natural, realistic reproduction and accuracy without extra features.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Weiss Engineering is a Swiss hifi brand known for its DACs that incorporate advanced DSP features like room correction and vinyl emulation, which are uncommon in other high-end DACs. Their products are praised for their precision and clarity in sound reproduction, with users noting their ability to make every track sound natural and balanced.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
DAC204
page
Product Page
Harmony DAC
2700
2700
/
11
Reviews
Laiv
Laiv Audio's Harmony DAC uses EXICON lateral MOSFETs to replicate tube sound without tube drawbacks, and features a discrete R2R ladder network controlled by an Intel Altera Cyclone FPGA for precise sound quality. The brand stands out for its modular design approach that allows easy upgrades, and its unique unboxing experience includes a metal warranty card and a cardboard spike-aligner for precise setup.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exemplary build quality, with a chassis milled from a single block of aluminum and high-quality components.
  • Delivers a large soundstage with very good imaging and detail.
  • Produces a harmonically rich presentation that R2R enthusiasts seek.
  • The unboxing experience is premium, with a metal certificate of authenticity and a remote control made from solid metal.

Product Considerations

  • The high output impedance (1200 ohms on XLR) might cause issues when pairing with amplifiers that have unusually low input impedance.
  • Optical and coaxial inputs might not deliver the same performance as USB and I2S inputs.
  • It is DAC-only unit, so it does not have preamp functionality or volume control.
  • Spiked feet could scratch surfaces.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Denafrips Ares II: The Harmony DAC has more instrument separation and a little bit more detail through USB or I2S.
  • Vs Gustard R26: The Harmony DAC is fuller in the bass and lower mid-range with a warmer presentation and wider soundstage through USB or I2S.
  • Vs Denafrips Venus II: The Venus sounds bigger with more tangibility to where performers reside and more space between them.
  • Vs Denafrips Pontus II: The Harmony DAC shares similarities but is slightly more resolving and realistic.
  • Vs SMSL Raw Pro: The Harmony DAC is more enjoyable to listen to overall, although the Raw Pro is more detailed.
  • Vs HIFIMAN EF400 and EF500: The Harmony DAC is an upgrade in detail retrieval, staging, and treble quality.

Takeaway: The Harmony DAC stands out with its build, engaging sound, and focus on providing a high-quality digital-to-analog conversion. Its ability to create a large soundstage and deliver rich detail makes it a solid option for audiophiles looking for an immersive listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Laiv Audio's Harmony DAC uses EXICON lateral MOSFETs to replicate tube sound without tube drawbacks, and features a discrete R2R ladder network controlled by an Intel Altera Cyclone FPGA for precise sound quality. The brand stands out for its modular design approach that allows easy upgrades, and its unique unboxing experience includes a metal warranty card and a cardboard spike-aligner for precise setup.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Harmony DAC
page
Product Page
X-Sabre 3
2999
2999
/
10
Reviews
Matrix Audio
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Wonderfully detailed sound signature and plenty of clarity create a rediscovering of your music
  • Impressive flagship-level hardware delivers flagship-level results due to the ES9038 Pro chip
  • The chassis is well-built with a premium feel due to the use of metal and tempered glass
  • A low noise floor exists due to the isolation of power, digital, and analog circuitry in separate compartments inside the chassis
  • Versatile streaming capabilities are available, including Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready certification

Product Considerations

  • The screen is small and may not be useful unless you are sitting right next to the unit
  • The tempered glass top is a fingerprint magnet
  • Menu navigation is not the most intuitive, and there is a bit of a learning curve
  • The touch-sensitive buttons have a short lag before the screen displays the change
  • Some reviewers feel it does not support a few streaming services natively

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the McIntosh C2600 II preamp with a built-in DAC, the Matrix offers more clarity and transparency
  • Compared to the Matrix Element I, the difference is night and day

Takeaway: The X-Sabre 3 is a well-built DAC streamer that provides detailed and clear sound. It is a versatile device that can enhance the listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
X-Sabre 3
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

NEO Stream
1299
/
Released
2022
iFi
Fusing the NEO iDSD's award-winning DAC with our proprietary network streaming technology, the NEO Stream becomes a high-resolution digital audio hub, designed for enthusiasts.
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iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Fantastic sound quality and usability for the price
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Includes the OptiBox, which improves sound quality via optical Ethernet connection
  • Streams hi-res files and DSD without converting to PCM first
  • Has a custom DAC that sounds phenomenal

Product Considerations

  • There can be occasional lag when switching songs
  • No hardware remote is supplied
  • The screen is on the smaller side and may be difficult to see at a distance
  • The NEO Stream is not an all-in-one media hub, as it doesn't have any other inputs aside from network and USB storage, and it doesn't work as a DAC for other sources
  • No Bluetooth capability

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Bluesound Node, the iFi NEO Stream has a larger, more organic sound and a wider soundstage
  • Compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN V2, the Cambridge has S/PDIF inputs (coaxial and optical) like the NEO, but includes a Type-B USB input for its DAC, and also has balanced XLR stereo outputs, but lacks the iFi's more advanced networking connectivity

Takeaway: The iFi NEO Stream is an impressive streaming DAC. It offers great sound quality, multiple features and makes enjoying high-quality streamed audio easy.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
NEO Stream
Page
Product Page
CXN100
1099
/
Released
2024
Cambridge Audio
We shouldn't have favourites but CXN100 is something else. Hi-fi specialists and our listeners alike loved its predecessor CXN V2 – just wait until they hear this. CXN100 will instantly transform a classic hi-fi stack into a system with a bright future. And because it's a network device, CXN100's firmware can be upgraded remotely, via our StreamMagic app, to receive the latest services.
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Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Clean, precise, and articulate sound with ample detail
  • Expansive and open soundstage
  • StreamMagic control app is stable, logical, user-friendly, and easy to navigate
  • Features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio

Product Considerations

  • Loses a touch of its predecessor's sonic solidity and warmth
  • Does not include HDMI ARC
  • Bluetooth is only compatible with SBC and AAC codecs
  • Can be provoked by careless system-matching with bright, treble-centric equipment
  • Volume is not controlled through the StreamMagic app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • CXN100 has improved clarity, precision, and spaciousness, but is missing some of the CXN (V2)'s sonic solidity and warmth, compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)
  • CXN100 trades off detail functionality to offer a user experience that is polished and genuinely pleasurable, and is able to take less than stellar recordings and avoid sounding strident or aggressive a little better than the EverSolo DMP-A6
  • CXN100 has better low end and a slightly greater perception of space, compared to the Cambridge Audio MXN10
  • CXN100 has a more natural quality to vocals with better realism and less fatigue, compared to the Bluesound Node

Takeaway: The CXN100 is a user-friendly and feature-rich music streamer that provides clear and detailed sound. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to add modern streaming capabilities to a classic hifi system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
CXN100
Page
Product Page
Altair G2.1
2439
/
Released
2021
AURALiC
ALTAIR G2.1, an all-encompassing digital and analog source component, provides abundant capabilities to the performance-oriented G2.1 Series. Combining every function available from AURALiC into the ultra-quiet G2.1 chassis, ALTAIR G2.1 is perfect for the most demanding music lover. Whether it's a high-res title from an online streaming service, a file on a NAS drive, or an LP on a turntable, ALTAIR G2.1 will deliver exquisitely rendered, dynamic music, from almost any source.
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AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Solid digital sound, good authority, solid bass, and a weighty sound with good scale
  • Excellent clarity, very good timing, and a very good soundstage
  • Outstanding build quality—solidly made and near indestructible
  • Versatile unit that can become the hub of the digital audio world
  • Clean and effortless digital processing
  • Connectivity options

Product Considerations

  • The Lightning DS app is only available for iOS
  • The 4-inch non-touch screen is adequate, but not exceptional
  • When written instructions feature on the screen, the words can be small and difficult to see
  • The alphabetical order of the albums is not followed when used with an external hard drive
  • Some reviewers felt a need for a high-end turntable setup, as the analog input feeds directly to the analog output stage—bypassing the digital stage altogether

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs NAD M10 V2: The Altair offers a step up in sound quality
  • Vs AURALiC Aries G1: The Altair G2.1 chassis is a significant upgrade with an internal copper sub-chassis, tuned feet, and a solid steel base

Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G2.1 is a versatile and well-built streaming DAC preamplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound. Comprehensive features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution.

Video review

Our take on the brand

AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Altair G2.1
Page
Product Page
Stellar
2199
/
Released
2023
PS Audio
Stellar DAC brings wonderful imaging and musicality to any high-performance system at a price you can afford. Stellar DAC embodies everything PS Audio has strived for in high-value electronics. From its clean and rich tonal balance to its wickedly wonderful imaging, this DAC can be the centerpiece of your music system.
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PS Audio is a well-known American brand with a strong following among enthusiasts, due in part to the educational YouTube videos produced by its founder. The company offers products across a wide range of categories, each developed with input from top engineers, resulting in unique sonic signatures. PS Audio’s offerings frequently appear on top 10 lists from professional reviewers, with many products recognized for their high-quality performance and innovative design.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Top-tier packaging and sound quality
  • Detailed, modern, and holographic sound
  • Excellent soundstage
  • Remote control can also manage PS Audio DAC

Product Considerations

  • Requires about an hour to reach peak performance when powered on using the back switch
  • Soundstage might not suit all tastes, which is subjective
  • Top-end extension is slightly less extended
  • Bass is slightly less punchy

Takeaway: The Stellar Gold Preamp is a great choice for those seeking a modern and transparent sound with good dynamics in their audio system and a smooth, non-aggressive presentation. It especially shines with recordings that have a good soundstage, making the performance feel convincingly real.

Product Strengths

  • Great, ear-pleasing sound
  • Easy to use, especially with the remote control
  • Offers loading presets and custom loading options for moving coil cartridges
  • Low noise performance
  • Clarity of sound
  • Good depth of field for its price

Product Considerations

  • Sensitive to grounding, ultra-low capacitance cables, RF, and other interference
  • Does not have adjustable resistive and capacitive loading for fixed-coil/high-output cartridges
  • Can have a high-pitched noise if cables are not oriented well

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Stellar sounds more interesting than the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo
  • The Stellar is not as bright as the iFi iPhono3 Black Label
  • Bass extension and grip are not as powerful as more expensive phono preamps

Takeaway: The Stellar Phono Preamplifier delivers great sound and an enjoyable user experience with its flexible settings and remote control, making it a worthy addition to any vinyl lover's system. Its clarity and low noise floor allow listeners to fully appreciate the nuances of their record collection.

Product Strengths

  • High damping factor for bass control and plenty of headroom
  • Near-perfect linearity, low distortion, and high efficiency
  • Neutral and colorless tonal balance
  • Combines speed and power with a bass-range grip

Product Considerations

  • Lacks the epic bass extension and hard-core slam of more expensive amplifiers
  • Top end lacks the effortless harmonic bloom of other amplifiers

Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar S300 is an excellent choice for a powerful, clean, and neutral-sounding amplifier. It offers high performance and finesse, delivering dynamic contrasts and excellent bass control, making it a worthwhile addition to any high-end audio setup.

Product Strengths

  • Musicality and cohesiveness to music
  • Nice drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging
  • Delivers impressive drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging, accompanied by nice depth in both soundstage and low frequencies

Product Considerations

  • I2S input is not HDMI compatible

Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp is a great choice for an DAC/Preamp that makes music easy and joyful to listen to. This product allows for great flexibility with its full-featured options and can become the centerpiece of a hifi system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PS Audio is a well-known American brand with a strong following among enthusiasts, due in part to the educational YouTube videos produced by its founder. The company offers products across a wide range of categories, each developed with input from top engineers, resulting in unique sonic signatures. PS Audio’s offerings frequently appear on top 10 lists from professional reviewers, with many products recognized for their high-quality performance and innovative design.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Stellar
Page
Product Page
DAC-R26
1649
/
Released
2022
Gustard
Check on Amazon
Gustard is a hifi brand known for integrating advanced clocking systems in their DACs, including atomic clocks, and developing custom digital filters that bypass standard ESS Sabre filters for a more tailored sound. The brand stands out for offering high-end audio performance at relatively affordable prices, with products featuring modular designs that allow for easy upgrades and customization.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Natural and organic timbre with rich and vibrant overtones, offering a remarkable sense of realism
  • Stands out as a highly musical DAC within its category, while maintaining an impressively competitive level of technical performance
  • Exceptional build quality, made of thick aluminum, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance
  • Almost inaudible noise floor, remaining dead silent and free from any hint of distortion
  • Wide range of digital inputs, and an integrated streamer, offering versatility and convenience

Product Considerations

  • The LCD screen can be difficult to read from a distance greater than 20-30 cm
  • The embedded streamer can experience occasional interruptions and buffering issues when streaming high-resolution files
  • Some reviewers experienced small hiccups when skipping songs using the internal streamer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Chord Qutest: Has a bigger soundstage, equally sweet highs, much fuller tone timbre and a more muscly bassline—sounding more lifelike
  • Vs Ladder Schumann: Gustard R26 hits with more clarity and speed, with a darker background, and an even deeper soundstage

Takeaway: The Gustard DAC-R26 is a musical and technically impressive DAC with excellent build quality and versatile features, including a streamer, making it a great choice for a top-notch audio experience. The natural sound and engaging performance create a lasting impression.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gustard is a hifi brand known for integrating advanced clocking systems in their DACs, including atomic clocks, and developing custom digital filters that bypass standard ESS Sabre filters for a more tailored sound. The brand stands out for offering high-end audio performance at relatively affordable prices, with products featuring modular designs that allow for easy upgrades and customization.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
DAC-R26
Page
Product Page

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

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