Gustard R26

@kereru Thanks for the wonderful feedback. Since I already have the Bluesound Node 2i in my second systems, I'm debating if I should go with only a DAC (e.g. Denafrips Pontus 2), or get the R26 and sell the BS Node. I like the fact that you can use a DDC with both DACs, i.e., R26 and Pontus.

@arafiq Point taken and totally get and respect that.  I’m not a fan of the Gustard’s look either, especially in silver.  Yuck.  But I do think getting something that performs at the level of the R26 that also looks good will cost multiples of its price — think along the lines of the Denafrips Terminator, etc.  Ouchee!

I am going to wait for the non streaming R2R Gustard that will surely release in few months after they’ve drained our pockets for the R26. I don’t want to pay for a capability I cannot easily use. I’m sorry but a “streamer” that can only be connected via lan these days… really? No thanks.

Additionally don’t doubt for a minute smsl isn’t in the basement developing a $1,000-1,500 r2r that will likely be the flavor of the month soon. Dacs and ddc’s is where the $$$ is these days the level of performance is going to skyrocket for good value dacs etc.(it already has really). I could be wrong…but I don’t think so.I’m enjoying my popcorn.

@balooo2 

A streamer you can’t easily use! What is hard about plugging in a wifi extender. Run a piece of cat 6 to the R26, download Jplay and you are up and running using a lan port that sounds fantastic. If you don’t wan lan R26 has Bluetooth, usb, coax, spdif what more do you want?

I’m sorry but a “streamer” that can only be connected via lan these days… really? No thanks.

funny, this is the only kind of streamer i am interested in.... courses for horses, eh?