2. digital
  3. 162004-6917

Anyone tried a Gustard x-16 Dac/Pre?

I am thinking about getting a Gustard X16 Dac to use as a DAC/Pre taking the toslink output from my LG OLED TVto drive a pair of ELAC NAVIS ARB-51 monitors. Has anyone had any experience with the Gustard x16 in this kind of mode? I had recently cut the cord with cable TV and now getting that from YouTube TV so I reduced my sources to just AppleTV. Given the apps available on the LG OLED (i.e UPNP client that can access my music on my Synology/minimserver) it made sense to do my input switching at the TV.  Thanks in advance
tellefsen
2 responses Add your response
westcoastaudiophile
296 posts
 
You will not be wrong and you most likely will enjoy this latest, based on Dual Sabre ES9068AS design, well tested, high quality Gustard X-16 DAC!
I hooked up Gustard A22 Dual AK4499EQ DAC to drive Accuphase P-4500 amp, and so far I haven’t identified better combo yet to beat that in terms of airiness and resolution The difference btw X-16 and A-22 is using in the design ESS/Sabre (X-16) vs Akamai Tech. DAC chip (A-22), and I personally prefer Akamai for “velvety" tunes.
blackbag20
454 posts
 

Sooner or later that will be the basis of audio gear set-up.  

While I don't have a similar arrangement yet, I purchased the X16 about a year ago ... sublime. It's paired with Odyssey Pre/ Parasound Amp.  Easy to use.  As you know, a wide variety of inputs.  I would love to hear it with the powered speaker in the manner that you intend. 

You cannot go wrong with the X16 ... please let us know!!  Should you not like it, send it back.  Shenzhen customer service is superb.

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