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GUSTARD X18 ES9038PRO Digital to Analog Convertor (DAC)

Sale price$749.00 USD
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Flagship Desktop DAC & MQA Decoder

The X18 is a high-end desktop DAC designed for listeners who want transparent, detailed digital-to-analog conversion with advanced features. Featuring the ESS ES9038PRO DAC, XMOS USB processor, and ultra-low-jitter clocking, it delivers native hi-res playback, full MQA decoding, and even Bluetooth streaming with LDAC and aptX HD support. With balanced XLR and RCA outputs, a clear OLED display, and a remote, it integrates seamlessly into both single-ended and balanced setups.

ESA‑Level Conversion with ESS ES9038PRO

The central feature is the ESS Sabre ES9038PRO, a premium DAC chip renowned for low distortion and wide dynamic range. Paired with independent AOP OPA1612 I/V converters and precision resistors, the result is exceptional clarity and channel separation. 

Precision USB Handling with XMOS XU216

The 16‑core XMOS XU216 USB interface decodes PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz and native DSD512 via USB or I²S. This dedicated processor ensures stable, jitter‑free handling of high‑resolution streams. 

CPLD-Based Clocking & Jitter Control

An onboard Altera CPLD manages clock distribution, PLL, DoP decoding, and digital filtering. Alongside dual Accusilicon femtosecond crystals, it minimizes jitter—offering some of the lowest THD+N and highest SINAD performance measured. 

MQA & High‑Res Bluetooth Connectivity

Fully certified for MQA decoding over USB, AES, coax, optical, and I²S inputs. Bluetooth 5.0 support includes LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, SBC, and AAC, letting you stream high-resolution content wirelessly. 

Balanced, Versatile Outputs & Intuitive Interface

Offering both XLR (5 V RMS) and RCA (2.5 V RMS) outputs, the X18 integrates smoothly into balanced or single‑ended setups. A front OLED display with remote and volume knob allows precise control and up to seven PCM & four DSD filter options .

Product highlights

  • ES9038PRO flagship DAC with discrete AOP I/V stage

  • XMOS XU216 USB receiver: PCM768 / native DSD512

  • Altera CPLD + dual Accusilicon clocks for ultra‑low jitter

  • Full MQA decoding via multiple digital inputs

  • Bluetooth 5.0: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC

  • I²S input via HDMI, USB-B, AES, coax, optical

  • Analog outputs: XLR (5 V RMS), RCA (2.5 V RMS)

  • Manageable via OLED, remote, or front volume knob

  • Multiple PCM & DSD digital filters, NOS mode

  • Voltage selectable 115/230 VAC; AC inlet

Specs

  • Digital Inputs: USB‑B, I²S‑HDMI, AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth 5.0

  • Sampling Rates: PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz; DSD512 native; MQA

  • DAC Chip: ESS ES9038PRO

  • USB Processor: XMOS XU216, 16‑core

  • Clocking: Dual Accusilicon A5318-B femto clocks, Altera CPLD

  • Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR 5 V; SE RCA 2.5 V

  • Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC

  • Digital Filters: 7× PCM, 4× DSD; NOS mode

  • Display & Control: OLED screen, front knob, remote

  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz–20 kHz ±0.08 dB

  • Power: 115/230 VAC switchable

  • Dimensions: 220 × 170 × 50 mm

  • Weight: 2.5 kg w/ packaging 

What’s included

  • Gustard X18 DAC unit

  • IEC power cable

  • USB‑B cable

  • IR remote control

  • Bluetooth antenna

  • User manual 

Apos Audio Gustard GUSTARD X18 ES9038PRO Digital to Analog Convertor (DAC)
GUSTARD X18 ES9038PRO Digital to Analog Convertor (DAC) Sale price$749.00 USD

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