





GUSTARD X18 ES9038PRO Digital to Analog Convertor (DAC)
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
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ES9038PRO flagship DAC with discrete AOP I/V stage
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XMOS XU216 USB receiver: PCM768 / native DSD512
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Altera CPLD + dual Accusilicon clocks for ultra‑low jitter
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Full MQA decoding via multiple digital inputs
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Bluetooth 5.0: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC
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I²S input via HDMI, USB-B, AES, coax, optical
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Analog outputs: XLR (5 V RMS), RCA (2.5 V RMS)
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Manageable via OLED, remote, or front volume knob
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Multiple PCM & DSD digital filters, NOS mode
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Voltage selectable 115/230 VAC; AC inlet
Specs
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Digital Inputs: USB‑B, I²S‑HDMI, AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth 5.0
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Sampling Rates: PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz; DSD512 native; MQA
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DAC Chip: ESS ES9038PRO
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USB Processor: XMOS XU216, 16‑core
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Clocking: Dual Accusilicon A5318-B femto clocks, Altera CPLD
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Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR 5 V; SE RCA 2.5 V
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Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC
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Digital Filters: 7× PCM, 4× DSD; NOS mode
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Display & Control: OLED screen, front knob, remote
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Frequency Response: 20 Hz–20 kHz ±0.08 dB
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Power: 115/230 VAC switchable
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Dimensions: 220 × 170 × 50 mm
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Weight: 2.5 kg w/ packaging
What’s included
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Gustard X18 DAC unit
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IEC power cable
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USB‑B cable
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IR remote control
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Bluetooth antenna
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User manual
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