GUSTARD R30 Fully-Discrete R2R Network Streaming DAC
Pre-Order delivering in mid-September 2025
A distinctive approach to digital audio.
Designed for audiophiles seeking an alternative digital approach, the R30 employs a fully discrete R2R ladder network for decoding, using precisely switched resistors instead of the rapid 0/1 modulation found in delta-sigma DACs. This method delivers a natural, detailed sound without the typical digital harshness. Complementing this core technology are advanced features including true 1-bit DSD decoding, FPGA-driven clock management, a proprietary network bridge, and a discrete Class-A analog output stage, all combining to produce an exceptionally natural audio experience.
Organic-sounding discrete R2R ladder
The R30 utilizes a discrete R2R module that performs digital-to-analog conversion via a resistor ladder network. This approach requires meticulous resistor matching and high precision, resulting in a conversion that delivers a more natural and organic sound.
True 1-bit DSD decoding
The R30 natively supports DSD1024, processing data at 1,024 times the density of standard CD audio. In DIRECT DSD mode, the bitstream avoids PCM conversion altogether, being decoded directly via a 1-bit switching array to maintain micro-detail accuracy and precise timing.
Smart digital filtering
The DAC offers three filter options—Linear Sharp, Minimum Slow, and Super Slow—allowing precise control over sound shaping. Utilizing adaptive multi-order algorithms, these filters effectively suppress aliasing noise while improving resolution and dynamic range.
FPGA-powered control
A programmable FPGA manages clock control, PLL shaping, depop switching, and signal routing. This design ensures low jitter, reliable synchronization, and flexible logic control that remains stable regardless of the complexity of the music.
Precision OCXO clocking
The SC-cut OCXO crystal clock minimizes jitter to nearly undetectable levels through superior thermal stability and stress resistance. Additionally, the R30 supports an external 10MHz clock input for synchronization with your reference system.
A network bridge to connect you with all your music
The R30 features a proprietary CelWare-based network bridge system, specially engineered for audio playback rather than relying on a standard Linux platform. By eliminating non-audio tasks, it reduces jitter and latency. Supported protocols include Roon Bridge, AirPlay, HQPlayer NAA, UPnP/DLNA, Spotify Connect, MConnect, BubbleUPnP, and QQMusic.
Class-A analog stage
The R30 employs a discrete Class-A low-pass filter stage rather than integrated op-amps, allowing for precise individual tuning of each component. This approach enhances control over frequency response, harmonic nuances, and transient accuracy.
Passive relay preamplifier
Equipped with an R2R relay-based volume control, the R30 functions as a passive analog preamplifier. It offers a pure bypass mode for use solely as a DAC, or it can be connected directly to powered speakers or a power amplifier with remote volume control capability.
XMOS USB with isolation
The USB interface utilizes an XMOS XU216 chip, capable of handling PCM768k and DSD512 formats. With dedicated voltage regulation and isolated left and right channels, it minimizes crosstalk and interference, preventing the USB connection from compromising audio quality.
Product highlights
- Fully discrete R2R ladder DAC
- Native DSD1024 decoding (via I²S)
- Triple digital filter modes: Linear Sharp, Minimum Slow, Super Slow
- FPGA programmable logic for clock and signal control
- OCXO clock with SC-cut crystal and external 10MHz input
- Self-developed CelWare network bridge with Roon, AirPlay, UPnP, NAA, Spotify
- support
- Discrete Class-A analog output stage
- Relay-based passive preamp with pure bypass mode
- Balanced and unbalanced analog outputs (XLR, RCA)
- XMOS XU216 USB interface with multi-stage filtering
- Web-based control via “//r30.local”
Specs
- Digital performance
- PCM: up to 1536kHz (I²S), 768kHz (USB)
- DSD: up to DSD1024 (I²S), DSD512 (USB)
- Digital filter modes: Linear Sharp, Minimum Slow, Super Slow
- PCM: up to 1536kHz (I²S), 768kHz (USB)
- Analog output
- Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz / ±0.2dB
- Dynamic range: >123dB
- SNR: >121dB
- Crosstalk: –139dB @10kHz
- THD+N: ≤0.00145% @1kHz
- IMD: ≈0.002% @ –1dBFS
- RCA: 2.5Vrms fixed, 100Ω
- XLR: 5.1Vrms fixed, 100Ω
- Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz / ±0.2dB
- Clocking
- Internal: SC-cut crystal OCXO with ultra-low jitter
- External clock input: 10MHz BNC, 50Ω, 0–20dBm
- Internal: SC-cut crystal OCXO with ultra-low jitter
- Digital inputs
- USB (XMOS XU216)
- Coaxial
- Optical
- AES/EBU
- Dual I²S (adjustable pinout)
- LAN (100/1000 Mbps, Roon/AirPlay/UPnP/NAA/Spotify)
- TF card reader
- USB (XMOS XU216)
- Outputs
- XLR balanced L/R
- RCA unbalanced L/R
- Trigger in/out
- XLR balanced L/R
- General
- Power: AC 115V/230V, 50/60Hz
- Consumption: <35W
- Dimensions: 16.9 × 11.8 × 3.1in (430 × 300 × 80mm; incl. feet 94mm)
- Shipping dimensions: 20.9 × 15.7 × 7.1in (530 × 400 × 180mm)
- Weight: 22lbs (10kg)
- Power: AC 115V/230V, 50/60Hz
What’s included
- R30 discrete R2R DAC
- Power cable
- Remote control
- User manual
