Gustard X30 DAC

Now the X30 seems to face sibling rivalry from within, with the X26 III.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y581_fYIzH8&t=1s

https://www.head-fi.org/threads/gustard-x26iii-dual-es9039spro-dac-network-streamer.974699/

I believe he said 85%.  Nevertheless, I always take whatever the reviewer or anyone says with a grain of salt.  But, bet. the reviewer and an audiogoner who have never heard X26 III, I am leaning toward what the reviewer recommends.   

@sls883 You are definitely getting noticeable sonic improvements, as described, for that additional $1k. You believe (same here) those sound quality improvements will manifest in your system, and that’s what truly matters. For me, with these two time mediocre experience with the chi acclaimed hi-fi products, i.e., A6 and R26, I will stay away from them for a while. The low-end products are amazing though at their price point.

I’m not sure (and please, no “Idfk”) what the 15% difference entails either, so I rely on the reviewer’s insights. I’m pointing you to that information to support that the additional $1,000 you’ve invested is worthwhile. Nevertheless, the reviewer has thoughtfully provided a great alternative to the X30 for system matching (tune in 12:30). After all, I’d bet he’s the only one here who has heard both units, and I’ve found his reviews to be spot-on most of the time.

As for where the gear is made, that matters the least. What truly matters is who designs the gear and the quality control behind it.

I was bitten twice and stand by my statement about their quality control.

Many, if not all, audiophiles use ’chi-fi.’ In this context, I extend the term to ’chi hi-fi.’ What’s wrong with that? Don’t make excuses for your rudeness. Okay, not productive at all...

If you find the term ’chi-fi’ bothersome, take it up with all the audiophiles who use it.