Gustard R26vsSMSL SU-1
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the Gustard R26 and SMSL SU-1 — two popular dacs in the Chinese HiFi space.
Specifications
Spec
Gustard R26
SMSL SU-1
Chipset
Discrete R2R Ladder
AKM AK4493S
Inputs
LAN (Streamer), USB, I2S, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth
USB-C, Optical, Coaxial
Outputs
XLR, RCA
RCA
Features
Built-in Streamer (Roon Bridge/UPnP), 10MHz Clock Input, Discrete Architecture
MQA Decoding, Bus Powered, Metal Chassis
PCM
—
32-bit / 768kHz
Remote Control
✓
✗
Tube Stage
✗
✗
Headphone Amp
✗
✗
Price (estimated)
Price
~$1649
~$85
Difference
~$1564.00 cheaper (SMSL SU-1)
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 SU-1
- ⚠No remote control or screen; input switching is a simple button on the front.
- ⚠No balanced outputs (RCA only).
- ⚠Lightweight chassis can easily be pulled off a desk by heavy cables.
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