2. digital
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Gustard R26 vs hi end streamer

Hi,

I have in plan to upgrade the source of my system:

Source: Newtork streamer Marantz NA8005
Amp: Arcam A32
Speakers: build to me
Headhone: Denon AH-D5000

Actually the options are:

1) Purchase a DAC like Gustard R26 or X26 or Schiit OG Yggdrsail (I’am bit undecided to choose one of these DACs).
2) Replace my Newtork streamer with a Hi end Streamers like: Auralyc, Cocktail Audio, Rose or coming soon new Marantz that replace ND8006.


I have a preference for a sound relaxed, warm, analog, with a deep bass, I listen only FLAC files with USB disk and no others, so I’am not interested to streamer services.

My actual Marantz match my sound preference, but lack of details, soundstage, etc...

The ideal is upgrade the Newtork streamer, but for what I read on many forums, an exterenal DAC like Gustard R26 or Schiit OG Yggdrsail sound better of every integrated streamer like: Auralyc, Cocktail Audio, Rose, etc.. and apart this is also a cheap option.


To match my sound preference do you suggest to wait the next Marantz models or consider directly an external DAC like Gustard or Schiit ?

marco777
sls883
327 posts
 

You should be able to switch inputs on the Gustard. I did it with my cd player and streamer. 

Are you sure that the Shanling will output through USB and coaxial at the same time?  Maybe try unplugging the USB cable from Shanling and see if coaxial works. I'm guessing, but it's worth a shot 

alexberger
905 posts
 

Hi @sls883

Yes, coaxial works when I unplug USB.

The problem is only when both cables are plugged.

I need both these cables because PCM sound better with Coaxial cable, but I need USB cable for playing DSD files.

sls883
327 posts
 

@alexberger I Googled the Shanling manual and it says "USB is set as priority for the system.  if you want to use a different digital output, please make sure USB Audio Output is not connected".

I2s would probably work, but you'd have to figure out the pinout connection.  I use a Gustard U18 ddc which converts USB to a Gustard type I2s output. 

sls883
327 posts
 

The U18 wouldn't work in your case because you'd still be using the USB output. 

alexberger
905 posts
 

Hi @sls883 ,

So far I found a solution to plug and unplug USB cable into ET3 (I have easy access to do it). It is not a big problem for me because I listen to PCM (CDs and files) 95% of the time.

In one month I will receive my old SMSL do300ex (AK4499) DAC from maintenance. It will be my DAC dedicated to DSD.

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