Gustard R26vsSMSL D-6s
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the Gustard R26 and SMSL D-6s — two popular dacs in the Chinese HiFi space.
Specifications
Spec
Gustard R26
SMSL D-6s
Chipset
Discrete R2R Ladder
ESS ES9039Q2M
Inputs
LAN (Streamer), USB, I2S, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth
USB-C, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth 5.1 (LDAC)
Outputs
XLR, RCA
XLR (Balanced), RCA
Features
Built-in Streamer (Roon Bridge/UPnP), 10MHz Clock Input, Discrete Architecture
Remote Control, Sound Color Modes, 5V/2.4V Output Switch
Remote Control
✓
✓
Tube Stage
✗
✗
Headphone Amp
✗
✗
Price (estimated)
Price
~$1649
~$199
Difference
~$1450.00 cheaper (SMSL D-6s)
Things to Know
Gustard R26
- ⚠The built-in streamer software is functional but basic compared to dedicated units like Eversolo.
- ⚠Large and heavy unit that runs warm.
- ⚠Menu navigation via the small monochromatic screen can be cumbersome.
SMSL D-6s
- ⚠The display is a simple 7-segment LED, which looks dated compared to OLED screens.
- ⚠The 'Sound Color' modes are very subtle and barely audible to most users.
- ⚠Bluetooth antenna is plastic and feels a bit cheap.
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