Gustard A26 – DAC + Streamer

Description

The perfect balance between precision and musicality

El Gustard A26 it is a high-end DAC with integrated network streamer, designed for those seeking the ideal combination between modern resolution and musical warmth.
Her heart is shaped by a design dual-mono with two AK4499EX chips, one per channel, and the AK4191 digital modulator, the most advanced architecture of Asahi Kasei (AKM).

The result is a fluid, natural and three-dimensional sound, with a sweet, organic timbre that retains all the precision and dynamics of the latest digital conversion.

⚙️ Digital architecture

• dual DAC AK4499EX + AK4191, in dual-mono configuration.

• Interface XMOS XU216 state-of-the-art, with support full MQA.

• Resolution: until 32-bit PCM / 768 kHz y native DSD512.

• Hybrid I/V conversion (op-amps + transistors) and discrete Class A output filter, to achieve a warm sound without harshness.

• AKM sound philosophy“Velvet Sound”analytical resolution with human texture and tonal naturalness.

🌐 Built-in streamer

• Starter LAN Ethernet RJ45 with native network rendering.

• Supported protocols:
  Roon Bridge / Roon Ready, UPnP / DLNA, HQPlayer NAA.

• Direct playback from a local network without the need for a computer.

• Remote control via compatible apps (Roon, BubbleUPnP, mconnect, etc.).

The A26 can function as a complete digital hub: it receives music from the network and converts it directly with audiophile quality.

⏱️ Clock and synchronisation

• Synthesis K2 ultra low noise clock of extreme precision.

• Starter BNC 10 MHz for external master clock (C16 / C18 / Mutec / etc.).

• Total isolation between the digital clocks and the analogue section.

Ideal for integration into high-precision master clock-synchronised systems.

🔋 Power supply and analogue design

• Two independent toroidal transformers (digital and analogue).

• Dedicated regulators per section, with high-capacity filtration.

• Design fully balanced, with outputs XLR 5V y RCA 2.5 V.

• Solid aluminium chassis, black or silver finish, with a monochrome OLED display.

🎧 Sonic personality

📊 Technical specifications

• DAC: 2 × AK4499EX + AK4191

• USB XMOS XU216, support full MQA

• Formats: PCM 32/768 – native DSD512 – MQA

• Red: LAN RJ45 (Roon / UPnP / NAA)

• Clock Internal K2 + external 10 MHz input

• Entries: USB, LAN, I²S HDMI, AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical

• Departures: XLR 5 V / RCA 2.5 V

• Power consumption: ~30 W

• Dimensions: 430 × 300 × 80 mm

• Weight: approx. 9 kg.

🏁 Conclusion

El Gustard A26 it is one of the most comprehensive and refined DACs in its class.
Unify organic musicality, high resolution, integrated network streamer and impeccable craftsmanship.

✅ Dual AK4499EX + AK4191 → smooth and natural sound
✅ K2 internal clock + external 10 MHz input
✅ Roon / UPnP / HQPlayer NAA integrated
✅ Dual toroidal power supply
✅ Discrete Class A balanced output

The A26 is the More balanced Gustardthe elegance of AKM, modern precision and the warmth of authentic musical sound.