GUSTARD - R26II

Fully Discrete R2R DAC

Sale price₹ 179,999
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Color: Black
Talk to a Headphone Guru

1. What is a Pre-Order product?
A Pre-order product is a product that we especially order for you from the brand. Once you place an order with us, we will order it from the brand for you.

2. How do I know when the product will be delivered?
There is a rough timeline on the product availability and once it has been confirmed with the brand, we will inform you.

3. Do you order the product from the brand as soon as I place the order?
We do not immediately order the product but add it in the upcoming order.

4. Will you be giving me updates?
Once we have ordered the product and have a confirmed timeline, we will give you an update.

5. I’d like to make changes to/cancel my order?
You can only cancel/make changes to your order until we place the order with the brand. Since the product is specifically being ordered for you, we will be unable to cancel/make changes once we order the product from the brand.

Defective? Tell us within 7 days. We'll take care of it.

Something wrong with your product? We'll sort it out.

Wrong product, damaged, or missing parts: Let us know within 24 hours of delivery. If it's just an accessory, we'll replace the accessory.

What we'll need:

- Product in original packaging with all accessories

- Unboxing video and images of the parcel


This helps us see what went wrong and move faster.

Manufacturing defect: Let us know within 7 days of delivery. We'll replace or refund.

The process:
1. Raise a request - you'll get a RET number and hear from us by the next working day.
2. Once approved, we arrange pickup.
3. We inspect the product (2-3 working days).
4. Replacement shipped or store credit or refund issued.

A replacement or refund will be issued if:

- The product is found to be defective

- It wasn't damaged while in your possession-

- The same product is returned in original condition - box, MRP tag, manual, warranty card, all accessories



READ THE FULL REPLACEMENT POLICY
1 Year warranty included. You're covered.

This GUSTARD - R26II comes with a 1 Year manufacturer's warranty from GUSTARD, covering manufacturing defects.

Every product on Headphone Zone is backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.

Need support? Start with us. We handle most brands' warranty claims directly, and for the rest, we'll help you connect with the brand.

Read about GUSTARD's Warranty
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Why GUSTARD is Special

🇨🇳

Designed in China

🥊 Young Maverick Brand

New on the scene, but bringing seasoned expertise 🌟!


We get excited about young maverick brands because they often bring fresh perspectives and cutting edge innovation that challenge established players. These companies combine youthful energy with serious technical expertise, often demonstrating remarkable attention to detail and commitment to pushing boundaries. Think of them like startup tech companies they might be newer, but they're hungry to prove themselves and often deliver incredible value.


Drawing on deep industry expertise and passion for audio excellence, these brands often demonstrate remarkable attention to detail and commitment to technological advancement. They frequently deliver cutting edge technology and performance that rivals established competitors 🚀.


When you see "🥊 Young Maverick Brand" products, expect innovative excellence from companies that combine fresh energy with serious technical expertise to deliver impressive results.

🌟 Specialist

A masterpiece from experts who know audio inside and out 🔧!


We tend to describe specialist manufacturers as "audio artisans" who focus exclusively on perfecting specific categories of equipment. These products are meticulously crafted by dedicated experts who possess deep knowledge of sound reproduction, ensuring every technical aspect is refined to perfection. Think of them like master craftsmen who spend their entire careers perfecting one specific skill their focused expertise shows in every detail.


These dedicated experts bring years of specialised knowledge to the design process, resulting in products that consistently achieve exceptional performance standards through focused engineering excellence 🎯.


When you see "🌟 Specialist" products, expect focused expertise from manufacturers who dedicate their entire efforts to perfecting specific audio equipment categories.

Why we love this DAC/Amp

👑 I Am Worth It

For the most passionate audiophiles who demand nothing less than audio perfection 💎, these exceptional products represent the absolute pinnacle of sound reproduction technology. When We designate something in this category, it means we've identified something truly extraordinary a piece of equipment that transcends conventional standards of excellence. Think of these as the Rolls Royce of audio masterpieces that don't simply meet expectations but establish entirely new benchmarks for what's possible.


These aren't just premium products; they're timeless investments in musical excellence whose value transcends ordinary performance metrics. Each represents a fundamental redefinition of what's achievable in sound reproduction, incorporating innovations and craftsmanship that justify their exclusive status.


When you see "👑 We Am Worth It" products, understand that you're experiencing audio perfection these masterpieces cater to those who recognise that true excellence knows no compromise.

🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only

For those who have ventured deep into high fidelity audio 🎯, the pursuit of sonic excellence becomes an endless journey of discovery and refinement. We believe that serious audiophiles demand equipment that can satisfy the most exacting standards and deliver performance that pushes boundaries. These products represent the pinnacle of acoustic engineering, incorporating advanced technologies and meticulous craftsmanship that enable them to reproduce music with utmost fidelity.


Each product has undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure it delivers exceptional performance that discerning listeners demand, from precise frequency response to impeccable detail retrieval and sophisticated sound staging. These devices incorporate premium components and engineering excellence that justify their position at the apex of audio performance.


When you encounter "🦈 Serious Audiophiles Only" products, expect uncompromising performance that satisfies the most demanding requirements and elevates critical listening to new heights.

✂️ Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth

We tend to describe Bluetooth audio as wireless freedom with fewer strings attached literally. When you see Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth, it means you can pair your headphones or IEMs with phones, laptops, or even TVs all without reaching for a cable 🎶. It’s convenient, clutter free, and great for everyday listening.


What’s happening behind the scenes is your gear is using Bluetooth codecs like SBC, AAC, LDAC, or aptX to compress and transmit your music wirelessly. Better codecs mean higher quality and lower latency. Of course, there’s a trade off Bluetooth won’t match the quality of wired gear, but today’s advancements have made the gap much smaller than before.


When you see '✂️ Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth' products, expect: tangle free convenience and solid sound quality great for commuting, workouts, or casual listening.


🔗 Connect With Cable

In our experience, there’s still nothing like the dependability of a wired connection when it comes to audio 🎧. We love describing it as the direct flight of music no delays, no turbulence. When a product says “Connect with Cable,” it means you’re getting the most reliable signal path, with zero wireless compression and minimal interference.


Here’s what’s actually happening: a physical cable transmits uncompressed analog or digital signals directly from your source to your gear. This results in lower latency, no signal drops, and consistently better sound especially when paired with a good DAC or amp. It’s ideal for critical listening, gaming, and professional use. The trade off? You’re tethered but for a lot of audiophiles, that’s a small price to pay for sonic purity.


When you see '🔗 Connect With Cable' products, expect: pure, uninterrupted sound quality that lets your gear perform at its full potential perfect for focused, high fidelity listening.

🪖 Built like a Tank

Durability concerns? Rest assured 💪.


We tend to describe these products as audio equipment that's built to survive anything you can throw at them. These headphones incorporate high grade metal components and reinforced design elements that ensure they can handle demanding conditions while maintaining structural integrity. Think of them as the military grade vehicles of the audio world over engineered for reliability and built to last decades, not just years.


The metal construction provides exceptional strength and longevity while contributing to a premium feel that serious audio enthusiasts appreciate. Whether you're a professional who needs reliable daily use equipment or someone who values long term investment in audio gear 🏗️.


When you encounter "🪖 Built like a Tank" products, expect unmatched robustness and durability you can count on for years of intensive use.


Why it Sounds Amazing

⚙️ DAC Chip

We like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.


When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high quality headphones perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.

🔬 Decodes Upto

When We see "Decodes up to" listed in product specs, We think of it like a music translator that speaks more languages than you’ll ever need. It tells you how far a DAC or audio device can go in handling hi res formats think PCM, DSD, or MQA and at what resolution. 🧠🎶


Technically, this refers to the maximum bit depth and sample rate a DAC can process like 32 bit/768kHz PCM or DSD512. The higher these numbers, the more detailed and lifelike the audio can potentially sound. But remember, real world improvements depend on the recording quality and your headphones, not just specs alone.

Gustard Presents The Exceptional Fully Discrete R2R Network Streaming DAC - The R26 II

Gustard introduces the R26 II, engineered as a reference-grade network R-2R DAC and combines a fully discrete conversion architecture with ultra-precise clocking, bespoke Class-A analog circuitry, and a purpose-built streaming platform. From native 1-bit DSD processing and external master clock support to meticulously isolated power supplies and bit-perfect network playback, every subsystem is designed to minimise noise, jitter, and digital artifacts. The result is a DAC that delivers exceptional resolution, timing accuracy, and an organic, analog-like musical presentation worthy of high-end audio systems.

Utilises Proprietary Discrete R-2R Architecture For Organic, Analog Sound

Gustard R26 II is built around a fully discrete R-2R resistor ladder network, this design performs direct, instantaneous digital-to-analog conversion without high-frequency modulation or noise-shaping. By bypassing typical Delta-Sigma artifacts, it delivers a purist presentation that sounds inherently natural, fluid, and analog-like. Achieving this level of linearity requires ultra-precise component matching and meticulous engineering far beyond standard manufacturing tolerances.

Implements Native 1-Bit DSD Conversion For Pure Signal Integrity

At its core lies a true 1-bit DSD D/A converter supporting up to DSD2048 via I²S, offering up to 32× the resolution of standard SACD (DSD64). DIRECT DSD Mode feeds the raw bitstream straight into the switch array, completely bypassing PCM conversion and DSP processing to preserve full dynamic range, transient response, and the dense, atmospheric character of native DSD playback.

Employs GCLK-02 PLL Clock Module For Ultra-Precise Timing Stability

Gustard R26 II embeds a GCLK-02 clock module uses advanced PLL technology with locking accuracy within 1 Hz, continuously correcting frequency and phase through a precision feedback mechanism. This ensures exceptionally stable clock signals, reducing jitter and enhancing timing accuracy across the entire conversion chain.

Supports External 10MHz Master Clock Input For Reference-Grade Synchronisation

Gustard R26 II features a BNC input for high-quality external 10 MHz clock sources (50Ω, 0dBm–20dBm), supporting both CMOS square wave (0.2V–3.3V) and sine wave (0.5V–3.3V) signals. Adding an external master clock can further elevate timing precision and overall audio performance.

Integrates Proprietary Digital Control Technologies For Optimised Playback

Gustard R26 II utilises exclusive internal technologies that include custom digital logic, advanced clock management, secondary PLL shaping, DoP demodulation, and PCM/DSD anti-pop switching. Together, these systems create a stable foundation for clean operation and consistently high sound quality.

Features Bespoke Discrete Class-A LPF Stage For Tunable Analog Output

Gustard R26 II’s analog output stage uses a fully discrete Class-A low-pass filter tailored specifically for the R-2R architecture. Free from standard op-amp limitations, this topology allows precise optimisation of transistor operation, bias, compensation, and harmonic structure, resulting in richer timbre, sharper transients, and a more nuanced presentation. Extensive precision matching and careful PCB design minimise parasitic effects and thermal drift.

Fuses Proprietary Network Bridge System With CelAudio For Bit-Perfect Streaming

Gustard R26 II has co-engineered with CelAudio, the dedicated streaming module is designed using a subtractive philosophy that removes non-essential computing hardware to lower electrical noise. Running the CelWare 3.x playback system on a deeply customised Linux kernel with real-time scheduling, it achieves ultra-low latency, minimal jitter and enhanced micro-detail retrieval.

Utilises Proprietary Discrete R-2R Architecture For Organic, Analog Sound

Gustard R26 II is built around a fully discrete R-2R resistor ladder network, this design performs direct, instantaneous digital-to-analog conversion without high-frequency modulation or noise-shaping. By bypassing typical Delta-Sigma artifacts, it delivers a purist presentation that sounds inherently natural, fluid, and analog-like. Achieving this level of linearity requires ultra-precise component matching and meticulous engineering far beyond standard manufacturing tolerances.

Implements Native 1-Bit DSD Conversion For Pure Signal Integrity

At its core lies a true 1-bit DSD D/A converter supporting up to DSD2048 via I²S, offering up to 32× the resolution of standard SACD (DSD64). DIRECT DSD Mode feeds the raw bitstream straight into the switch array, completely bypassing PCM conversion and DSP processing to preserve full dynamic range, transient response, and the dense, atmospheric character of native DSD playback.

Employs GCLK-02 PLL Clock Module For Ultra-Precise Timing Stability

Gustard R26 II embeds a GCLK-02 clock module uses advanced PLL technology with locking accuracy within 1 Hz, continuously correcting frequency and phase through a precision feedback mechanism. This ensures exceptionally stable clock signals, reducing jitter and enhancing timing accuracy across the entire conversion chain.

Supports External 10MHz Master Clock Input For Reference-Grade Synchronisation

Gustard R26 II features a BNC input for high-quality external 10 MHz clock sources (50Ω, 0dBm–20dBm), supporting both CMOS square wave (0.2V–3.3V) and sine wave (0.5V–3.3V) signals. Adding an external master clock can further elevate timing precision and overall audio performance.

Integrates Proprietary Digital Control Technologies For Optimised Playback

Gustard R26 II utilises exclusive internal technologies that include custom digital logic, advanced clock management, secondary PLL shaping, DoP demodulation, and PCM/DSD anti-pop switching. Together, these systems create a stable foundation for clean operation and consistently high sound quality.

Features Bespoke Discrete Class-A LPF Stage For Tunable Analog Output

Gustard R26 II’s analog output stage uses a fully discrete Class-A low-pass filter tailored specifically for the R-2R architecture. Free from standard op-amp limitations, this topology allows precise optimisation of transistor operation, bias, compensation, and harmonic structure, resulting in richer timbre, sharper transients, and a more nuanced presentation. Extensive precision matching and careful PCB design minimise parasitic effects and thermal drift.

Fuses Proprietary Network Bridge System With CelAudio For Bit-Perfect Streaming

Gustard R26 II has co-engineered with CelAudio, the dedicated streaming module is designed using a subtractive philosophy that removes non-essential computing hardware to lower electrical noise. Running the CelWare 3.x playback system on a deeply customised Linux kernel with real-time scheduling, it achieves ultra-low latency, minimal jitter and enhanced micro-detail retrieval.

Fuses Proprietary Network Bridge System With CelAudio For Bit-Perfect Streaming

Gustard R26 II has co-engineered with CelAudio, the dedicated streaming module is designed using a subtractive philosophy that removes non-essential computing hardware to lower electrical noise. Running the CelWare 3.x playback system on a deeply customised Linux kernel with real-time scheduling, it achieves ultra-low latency, minimal jitter and enhanced micro-detail retrieval. Through rigorous software service management, unused network protocols and background processes can be disabled to reduce CPU load and system interrupts. This “quiet mode” focuses all computing resources solely on bit-perfect audio playback, maximising fidelity and stability.
Note : For bridge configuration - visit r26.local

Equips Qualcomm QCC5125 Bluetooth 5.1 Chip For Hi-Res Wireless Streaming

Gustard R26 II Supports Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC, AAC, SBC, and aptX codecs via the Qualcomm QCC5125 platform, enabling stable, low-latency wireless playback with high-quality audio transmission across a wide range of devices.

Utilises XMOS XU216 USB Interface For Ultra-High-Resolution Decoding

Gustard R26 II features a dedicated XMOS XU216 USB processor that supports PCM up to 768kHz and native DSD512, ensuring precise data handling, low jitter, and uncompromised high-resolution audio performance over USB.

Embeds Dual Independent Power Supplies With Toroidal Transformers For Noise Isolation

Gustard R26 II’s digital and analog stages are powered by separate supplies using two dedicated audio-grade toroidal transformers, providing physical isolation that minimises crosstalk and shields sensitive circuitry from RF interference.

Incorporates Independent LDO Regulation And Hierarchical Filtering For Clean Signal Paths

Gustard R26 II embeds dual-channel independent LDOs with multi-stage hierarchical filtering deliver end-to-end power separation, effectively suppressing noise and crosstalk while preserving channel purity.

Utilises Multi-Route Power Supply Design For Stable, Low-Noise Operation

Gustard R26 II features multiple robust power rails ensure stable and clean operation across subsystems, distributing power efficiently to reduce interference and maintain consistent performance under varying loads.

Fuses Proprietary Network Bridge System With CelAudio For Bit-Perfect Streaming

Gustard R26 II has co-engineered with CelAudio, the dedicated streaming module is designed using a subtractive philosophy that removes non-essential computing hardware to lower electrical noise. Running the CelWare 3.x playback system on a deeply customised Linux kernel with real-time scheduling, it achieves ultra-low latency, minimal jitter and enhanced micro-detail retrieval. Through rigorous software service management, unused network protocols and background processes can be disabled to reduce CPU load and system interrupts. This “quiet mode” focuses all computing resources solely on bit-perfect audio playback, maximising fidelity and stability.
Note : For bridge configuration - visit r26.local

Equips Qualcomm QCC5125 Bluetooth 5.1 Chip For Hi-Res Wireless Streaming

Gustard R26 II Supports Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC, AAC, SBC, and aptX codecs via the Qualcomm QCC5125 platform, enabling stable, low-latency wireless playback with high-quality audio transmission across a wide range of devices.

Utilises XMOS XU216 USB Interface For Ultra-High-Resolution Decoding

Gustard R26 II features a dedicated XMOS XU216 USB processor that supports PCM up to 768kHz and native DSD512, ensuring precise data handling, low jitter, and uncompromised high-resolution audio performance over USB.

Embeds Dual Independent Power Supplies With Toroidal Transformers For Noise Isolation

Gustard R26 II’s digital and analog stages are powered by separate supplies using two dedicated audio-grade toroidal transformers, providing physical isolation that minimises crosstalk and shields sensitive circuitry from RF interference.

Incorporates Independent LDO Regulation And Hierarchical Filtering For Clean Signal Paths

Gustard R26 II embeds dual-channel independent LDOs with multi-stage hierarchical filtering deliver end-to-end power separation, effectively suppressing noise and crosstalk while preserving channel purity.

Utilises Multi-Route Power Supply Design For Stable, Low-Noise Operation

Gustard R26 II features multiple robust power rails ensure stable and clean operation across subsystems, distributing power efficiently to reduce interference and maintain consistent performance under varying loads.

Clear Front-Panel Display

Gustard R26 II includes an intuitive front-panel display for easy monitoring of playback status and system settings.

Precision-Crafted Chassis Design

Gustard R26 II features a robust precision-engineered chassis that minimises interference while delivering premium build quality.

Accessories to Get you Started

1. Remote Control
2. Power Cord
3. USB Cable
4. Bluetooth Antenna
5. Warranty Card
6. Quick Start Guide

All You Need To Know About The GUSTARD R26II

DAC Chip
Discrete R-2R
Input
USB-B
I²S (via HDMI-style port)
Coaxial
Optical
AES/EBU (XLR)
Bluetooth Antenna LAN (Network streaming)
10MHz Clock (External clock)
Output
RCA Line Out
XLR Line Out
Analog Output
COAX / AES / OPT Input Format Support :
PCM 16–24bit / 44.1–192kHz
DSD DoP64
USB / Streamer Input Format Support :
PCM 16–32bit / 44.1–768kHz
DSD DoP64–DoP256
Native DSD : DSD64–DSD512
IIS Input Format Support :
PCM 16–32bit / 44.1–1536kHz
Native DSD : DSD64–DSD2048
(DSD2048 supported in DSD Direct mode)
Bluetooth 5.1 Input Format Support :
LDAC, AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD
LDAC Hi-Res audio support up to 96kHz
10MHz Clock Input (BNC) :
Input impedance : 50Ω
0dBm–20dBm
CMOS square wave : 0.2V–3.3V
Sine wave : 0.5V–3.3V
USB OS Support :
Windows 7 / 8 / 10 / 11 (32-bit & 64-bit)
macOS
iOS
Linux
Analog Output
Frequency Response :
20Hz–20kHz (±0.2dB, OS Mode)
Dynamic Range :
>117dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio :
>122dB
Channel Crosstalk :
<–134dB @ 1kHz
THD+N :
≤0.003% @ 1kHz
IMD :
≈0.008% @ 0dBFS
RCA Output Level :
2.5Vrms (Volume Fixed)
RCA Output Impedance :
100Ω
XLR Output Level :
5.0Vrms (Volume Fixed)
XLR Output Impedance :
100Ω
Miscellaneous Specifications
AC Power :
AC115V / 230V, 50 / 60Hz (Manual Switching)
Power Consumption :
<20W
Chassis Dimensions :
330 × 260 × 65 mm (Excluding feet: 10 mm)
Weight :
5.5 kg (Net)
Package Dimensions :
420 × 360 × 175 mm
Shipping Weight :
7.3 kg (Gross)


1 Year Warranty

Don't sweat it, this GUSTARD - R26II comes with a 1 Year warranty from GUSTARD that covers manufacturing defects. All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.

Read more about GUSTARD's warranty in India.

Affordable Excellence in Audio: The Shenzhen Revelation

Headquartered in one of China's leading tech hubs – the city of Shenzhen – GUSTARD is a company with research and development at its core. Its goal is to provide music fans with high-performance audio products at affordable prices.

GUSTARD is one of those names that has had a strong pull in the audiophile world and are known for their desktop audio solutions, with a particular focus on headphones. Their line-up of products primarily includes headphone amplifiers, DACs, clocks, and recently integrated streaming devices.Gustard is one of the most secretive and mysterious audio equipment manufacturers out there. But GUSTARD sure knows what they are doing when it comes to digital audio. They are known for utilising high-quality components like toroidal transformers, embedding dual DAC chips in a dual-mono configuration and equipping a fully discrete class-A output stage in their gear.

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Check out the most common questions our customers ask. Still have questions? Talk to our Headphone Gurus.

Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 11am-6pm.Average answer time: 2-3 Hours

Other Details


Generic Name Digital Audio Converter
Country Of Origin China
Importer Details Importers Name: Ferrari Video
Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020
Contact No: 044-24420733
Net Quantity 1
Package Contents GUSTARD R26II
Remote Control
Power Cord
USB Cable
Bluetooth Antenna
Warranty Card
Quick Start Guide

Manuals & Guides



User Manual | R26II

Fully Discrete R2R DAC



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