I want to wish all of us a New Year filled with amazing and insightful reviews from IIWI. There are not many channels that bring such joy just by announcing a new video release!
Dear Srboljub - thank you again for such an amazing review. It blows me away every time how rich your vocabulary is and how rich and subtle, finely granulated and differentiated your descriptions are. I would love to know how you achieved your superior command of Englisn. It sounds like DACs are now at an incredible performance level that would have required astronomical investments only a few years ago. Вама лично и вашим најмилијима желим много здраву, срећну и успешну Нову годину All the best, Rob in Switzerland
I have the opportunity to just have gotten the Holo Audio Red Streamer /DDC along with the Holo Audio Cyan 2 DAC. I'm using the Holo Red as a Roon Bridge via network alomg with my Roon Nucleus One, feeding the Holo Audio Cyan 2 DAC via I2S to the new Musical Fidelity A1. Your review on Audio Cyan 2 DAC was one of the two bigger influences i had, to pull the trigger on the Holo Audio combo. I'm very impressed, very happy, I have reach a level of satisfaction and enjoyment with these combo that I don't forsee wanting to make change or wanting more, at least in the next 5 years or so. Thanks for your reviews, you are one of the best, I mostly just follow you, Toram from British Audiophile and Hans Beekhuyzen and maybe one or two more. Your work is very good, keep it up! And thanks for Influencing my desision to get the holo Audio red/cyan 2 combo 👍
thank you for the review making comparisons between different dacs truly help you and Koji from convincemeaudio are hands down the best unfiltered reviewers keep it up and happy new year ❤❤❤❤
Thank you, thank you for a much desired review of X26iii. I'm so glad I waited. I'm not an R2R guy. Micro detail, powerful dynamic and extremely airy presentation of X26iii is my choice.
@@nusu5331it’s been fascinating watching the interplay over the last few years… r2r designs more closely approaching delta sigma in some of their deficiencies, and vice-versa… excited what performance will look like in another 5, 10, 20 years
I tend not to change a lot in my life. If I find an electronic item that I enjoy, I will use it for years or until it quits. I would love to sample all these products that you get to review but I am happy with what have. Happy new year.
After trying some separate dacs (D70s, Pontus 2, Fezz Equinox) I tried an older Limetree Network (2x AK4493) with Allo Shanti and it sounded the best in my system with the most impressive soundstage. Seems that synergy is key and it put all reviews in perspective. So indeed, enjoy whatever you like 😊
Always impressed with your ability to describe differences between components. Would love to hear your review of the Schiit Yggdrasil More is Better DAC.
Great review. I am going to wait to upgrade my AH90 until there is a clear winner that can get close to the capabilities of the newer dacs but with the streaming and headphone capability of the AH90. Your reviews are a delight. I hope it happens .
The Centaures sits right in the middle between Gustard R26 (a flawed unit in reality) and Holo Audio May measurementvise. I should expect it to sound pretty good 😊
For anyone looking at both centaurus and d90 discrete here's Initial impressions. Ive had both for a few days. The Centaurus is very smooth. Female and male vocals sound fuller and lusher. slightly less spacial separation. The d90 discrete is more open sounding, better spacial separation with a tighter grip on micro details. The discrete is very neutral and precise again with lots of micro detail control and an open sounding presentation. The Centaurus has an ever so slightly warmer presentation with very nice (better) vocal depth and natural instrument decay. I'd say for those that listen to jazz, funk, classical or anything with a lot of vocal and natural Instruments the Centaurus imo is the better pick. For those that listen to electronic, pop, rock etc the discrete imo is the better pick. From a build quality standpoint both are good with same rear io but I prefer the Centaurus screen and like the vu meter etc however having an actual volume control knob on the d90 discrete is nice. Two nice offerings from topping that tick different boxes while competing on the same general level.
Again, another great review. You did a awesome job comparing the X26iii with your curated DAC. I hope you you get to review Gustard!’s current flagship X30 too,
I always love your reviews because it comes from how you feel! I have been looking for a new DAC for ages to replace my going on 6 year old Smsl VMV D1 which its time was something else! Some reviewer sites with pricey test gear call R2R DACs not worth your time. I wish you could get a Geshelli Dayzee but that can't happen unfortunately, and that would be one I wish you could compare. I listen to rock, synth, as well as classical so an all rounder is what I need. I wouldn't mind a Laiv but $2.7k usd is more than I can pay. Thanks for your time in all this!
I have the Topping D90III Discrete 1-Bit and it I a great pairing with my tube amplifiers I am waiting until next Black Friday sale season and …. Keeping what I have, getting the Topping 900 1-Bit due out any day, or the Pontus 15th or ??? It seems like there is so much change, which I am enjoying, and I will move forward in one or two year upgrade sale cycles so keeping up with these great reviews is fun to watch, the DAC wars
I owned D90 Discrete for 2 months, but I sold it, because it simply didn't fit in my system, which is absolutely neutral and revealing. My jazz, classical, acoustic preferences also didn't help. I've purchased Pontus 15th afterwards, which is fantastic, musical and natural sounding DAC and I'm absolutely thrilled. Pontus 15th is my DAC for the next 5+ years. However I have to admit that for some type of music D90 Discrete does excellent job. Also worth to mention, I found D90 Discrete as a great headphone setup DAC, where its detailed yet musical nature really shines. It's all about your preferences, system setup and a listening room. Try before buy.
So relevant comparisons, thank you! Extra credit for comparing the internal streamer! It is surprising (but still useful) that you compared the Laiv Harmony with the X26iii, when usually people compare that with the X30. I am curious on an upcoming comparison with the X30 (which has better clock, dynamic range, perhaps PSU). Thank you for your nuanced reviews, keep up the good work, and Happy New Year!
Great review.. would LOVE to see a review of the new Schiit Gungnir 2! I currently have a Bifrost 2/64 and was thinking of upgrading to the Gungnir but am intrigued by the Cyan 2 and would love a comparison
Have you checked for the hidden "Sound Mode" in the Web interface? The X30, which is a doubled X26 in essence, has it and the setting "Directly" increases clarity and speed compared to the softer and default "Musically".
I just picked up with the d90 iii discrete and the Centaurus both open box ex review/test units for £700 each. Now I have two styles I can swap out depending on my mood. Coulda bought a gustard but hell I got stinking deals and I'm now done for a couple years at least. My dac search is over! These decisions can be stressful nowadays, so much competition and constant innovation!
@@justasimplefox Initial impressions. The Centaurus is very smooth. Female and male vocals sound fuller and lusher. slightly less spacial separation. The d90 discrete is more open sounding, better spacial separation with a tighter grip on micro details. The discrete is very neutral and precise again with lots of micro detail control and an open sounding presentation. The Centaurus has an ever so slightly warmer presentation with very nice vocal depth and natural instrument decay. I'd say for those that listen to jazz, funk, classical or anything with a lot of vocal and natural Instruments the Centaurus imo is the better pick. For those that listen to electronic, pop, rock etc the discrete imo is the better pick. From a build quality standpoint both are good with same rear io but I prefer the Centaurus screen and like the vu meter etc however having an actual volume control knob on the d90 discrete is nice. Two nice offerings from topping that tick different boxes while competing on the same general level.
Great review as alway, thanks! Especially your comparisons are so good!! 🙏 Best wishes too! 😊 In the meantime I got the Cyan 2 with a Synergistic Pink fuse. Would be great if you could review that combination!?
@@beslemetoit’s a fine warm sounding DAC in comparison with the Chord Qutest DAC, I had before. It is all about personal taste and the combination with the right bridge, so difficult to advise you. I love Chord DAC’s more, I think, but you can’t go wrong, I think. Wait for the CES…perhaps a new kid in town. The LaiV is fine, but to expensive for me. The Gustard is very attractive too by the way.
@@beslemeto less analog sounding perhaps 🤔 But don’t forget: I have old ears 👂 so a more clear sound is preferred, I think. 🤔 Also, and don’t forget: The Cyan can only use one 1️⃣ input. So, I bought a Shitt modi 3 DAC for with My TV to watch Music videos. That’s a fine solution, but instead I could buy the gustard. Anyhow: you can’t go wrong with any of them, it’s just a matter of taste, functionality and looks. And that makes it difficult enough…
Between the X30 and the X26 III, Gustard has given some great options that seem to lead the pack at their price points. Doesn't mean one can't enjoy everything in-between but these are on my next to consider list. This year I bought a new amp and speakers. The Van Alstine CA-1 and Audel Magika II, speakers that weren't even on my list but are a nice set that came up discounted as an outgoing model. My dac is currently the D70s and I also have the Aune X18th w/ the Sparkos and Aune PS, which work well with the system for most of the music I listen too. What I get with the amp and speakers is alot of transparency and a mostly neutral sound which slides to a brighter side of neutral at times depending the recording. I don't usually care for a too rounded or dark sound but I think more bass punch and mid-range note weight would help. This works for movie soundtracks and most music. What I am looking for is more stage depth, separation as space and effects that are embedded in the recording comes through better. There are wider sounding speakers but I prefer having depth over width. I did listen to a Sabaton album which sounded surprisingly good whereas on my previous speakers it did not. A review wrote about the Audel is that it has a "calm, gentle sound" in comparison to other speakers. While I find it has transparency and remains capable of Dynamic shifts, there is something noticeable about this particular quality which I like. It stops the presentation from going over the top and jolting, or from becoming overbearing. So, an even punchier dac would still work I am thinking, Also, at this time, the RCA connections have to provide the same quality of output as the XLR as my system utilizes only RCA jacks. Doesn't mean down the road I wouldn't put together a system using XLR connectivity but it will be awhile before spending more in this hobby. While there is alot of used, discounted and new I would like to try, whether speakers or amps, I am cutting myself off for now. But the next consideration would be the dac even though my current ones will likely last for many years. One will be used on a desktop but its overkill for the speakers I will use and perhaps headphones are next for desktop music listening. Typically, the desktop is for podcasts. So, I will see what the next year holds.
Sharp ear my friend! I noticeably noticed the lack of depth perceptions as well. Other than compressing the center channel forward it looks like we have found our Achilles heel! Still, there are ways and this DAC looks like great value!
I still don't get why Gustard insists in including a streamer with their dacs. I'd very much prefer if they would just keep it separate and price the dacs cheaper. Also, recent Topping dacs include PEQ capability with i really appreciate, giving them more flexibility.
I have the A26 and I wouldnt make the sideways move for the X26 III. I also use an Innuos Phoenix with the the A26 and it makes a big difference. If I didnt have either I would just get a X30. I would just get a X30, but it is not cheap. I have wondered how much of a difference the Phoenix would make on the X30.
The Renderer in the X30 ist updated and you need a realy good expensive Streamer to Beat the Performance. Is in another Level like A26 or R26 Renderer. Same with the Clock
@@StefanFrerichs-w4d Ya I dont really need a streamer. I still am quite happy with my A26/Phoenix combo. I think if I did upgrade Id have to go all in for a X30...it looks like a beast
Great insight as always, but how good does your associated equipment need to be to hear the differences you discuss here? What’s the minimum where you will struggle vs where you will easily notice? E.g. Will you hear with 1k speakers, 3k speakers, 2k amp, 750 headphones etc, etc? As a point of reference I can’t hear a difference between my Mojo 2, Zen DAC V2 or SMSL SU-1, all used in different systems, with Edition XS or Moondrop Kato. With Tidal via WiiM Pro. Any examples in particular tracks would be much appreciated. E.g. I can hear this at X time stamp with this DAC, but not with this one. As opposed to it just being ‘better’ or ‘wider’. Thanks.
I like this question, I was wondering this too, I have an Audiolab 8300a amp with a Audolab 8300CDQ cd player which has a ESS Sabre32 9018 chip DAC inside. I can add something in the middle of the chain as the amp has a power amp mode (& also pre too). I have Bowers 707s3 speakers. Will I benefit by adding anything, if so, where?
I may have missed it but do the SE outputs perform equally well as the XLR, retaining the overall SQ and stage depth given adjusting for volume output from higher voltage?
I didn't listen to Qutest for some time now so it's difficult to make any trustworthy comparisons. However, I clearly preferred Gustard R26 to Qutest for example and I belive it would be the same for X26 III. It should have more bass depth, more dynamics across the frequency spectrum, and even more details.
Please consider a review of the Emotiva BasX A2 Mini. I have already bought the Wharfedale Diamond 220s and the SMSL SU-1 that you recommended in an earlier video. I am now considering the Emotiva BasX A2 Mini, Denon PM 600NE, Sony STRDH 190, and Fosi V3 to play rock at low volume, nearfield, in my small, bright apartment. I prefer a warmer sound, so might choose the more expensive Denon, but am considering the perhaps more dynamic Emotiva, cheaper Sony, or more portable Fosi. Any insight is welcome. Thanks!
How does it compare to the Schiit Bifrost 2/64. BTW i may pair it with my Burson Soloist 3xp and hifiman Arya but will wait for reviews on the upcoming A26 III
Is this GUSTARD X26 III better then internal EverSolo DMP-A8 dac? Which one is more open on mid and heigh frequency? :) I have doupt is it worth to buy that gustard to use as external dac with DMP-A8, or that's not big step up?
I think X26 III is better, especially when it comes to dynamics and bassline slam. About mids and highs though... I also feel they are better but not as much. Also not sure if that kind of difference would justify the price of the upgrade tbh.
Yes, Laiv Harmony DAC is a bit richer and bigger sounding. But it is holding its ground very well and it can still put up good fight against almost any model.
Hello, i have node x with linear psu, what will be beter choice add topping d90 discrete dac and use node to stream tidal, or this gustard for tidal conect stream. Thanks
Hi. I never tested Node X so this one is really difficult to answer. Worth noting here is that X26 III doesn't support Tidal connect directly. Either Roon or UPnP would have to be used.
@@iiWiReviews I think i will keep node and blueos software and add external dac.What are you sugest around 1000 euro prince range this topping or maybe some of r2r dacs? Spekaers are b&w 703 s3 and musical fidelity m5si amp
D90 III Discrete is a no brainer in my mind. It is outperforming any other DAC of that price to my ears. I will soon try Topping Centaurus too but I expect it to be slightly different flavour (milder R2R) not better.
To my ears it is noticeably better with soundstaging, and there is more bass weight and more details too. But the question is always if the rest of the system (plus room placement is important for big soundstage) is transparent enough for that difference to be noticeable or not.
I have two questions re these a little confused about function. Are any of these good for being a pre-amp/dac hybrid? Also, would I benefit by adding one, I both an Audiolab 8300a amp with a Audolab 8300CDQ cd player which has a ESS Sabre32 9018 chip DAC. I can add something in the middle of the chain as the amp has a power amp mode (& also pre too). I have Bowers 707s3 speakers. Will I benefit by adding anything, if so, where?
I also have a concern. What happens if I use this dac (5.1 vrms on xlr) with the Rotel Rc 1590 preamp which supports max 4v on xlr? Do they match, does the preamp overload, does distortion, clipping occur? I'm a NOOB :), pls help.
@@iiWiReviews Thank you very much, you are a very honest reviewer. I follow your channel with great pleasure. In the situation where I have to use the preamp part of the DAC, isn't it better to remove the preamplifier from the system? I assume that going through two attenuation stages (DAC+preamp) will sound bad. Even so, the problem persists because the amplifier supports a maximum of 1.65V, so, again, I assume that the maximum volume in the DAC will be 35% before clipping. I suppose this is not ideal either. It is so hard to build a good system.
Topping $1000 vs Gustard $1600 for marginally different presentation with both Dac's offering exceptional quality. If $$ not a concern then by all means go for the MSB Cascade at a paltry $95K😊
excellent review! thank you! probably found my next dac. want to pair it with a violectric HPA V222. sadly that amp got very high ranking reviews but i hardly found any comparisons to others in that price range. if someone would suggest which amps to look at, i would much appreciate. main priority is soundstage depth and height. neutral presentation and tonality. basically it should just amplify what comes out of the dac. It should be able to drive my DCA Ether 2 magnetostats properly. from reading class a and discrete might be useful. no tubes pls
Don't chase, there is no end. Rather find something you like and enjoy it. Have never sat with my R26 and did not smile, and in my opinion that's what matters.
@@AWEG-qu8bz well as much as I like to think switching power can match linear I just don't know. I do know my class AB integrated amp has a hefty transformer.
Dude has a point. That is just not trustworthy. Especially when listening to that much gear, you simply cannot do such a comparison against a device you heared more than a year ago. I rather have leas comparisons that are indeed side by side sich as Darko calls it.
OK, let me try and explain. For example, R26 was with me for two years and up until two months ago. I compared it directly to Cyan 2, Harmony, and Topping D90 III Descrete. I know where it stands compared to them very well, what it did equally good, what not. Now X26 III was compared to all of those 3 DACs directly too. Now, if both Topping D90 III D and Cyan 2 had more speed and tiny deteils than R26, and X26 III has more speed and deteils than both D90 III D and Cyan 2... I can without any doubt claim that X26 III has more speed and deteils than R26. It's basic deduction. It's same for soundstaging, bass slam, etc. If I was not capable of making these comparison with very high certainty I wouldn't.
My setup is the Gustard R26 along with the U16 DDC both with an external clock. IMO this setup beats any $10k DAC in detail retrieval, air, holographics, stage, tone decay, timber, bass punch and detail. It checks all the boxes for me. I tried a number of DACs and this is it.
I have a Gustard A26 its a very good brand for sure. Being able to adjust the volume on the DAC means the pre-amp can be skipped - which gives better sound unless you have $3K to drop on a really good one.
Used mine this way. Later bought the Aune S17 Pro. Way better as preamp plus lovely headphone amp too. Sony CDP-XA20ES CD Player as transport+ Acoustic Energy ae1 active speakers. Decent cables too.
@@peterlynn3190 Class A - looks very nice. My system is 4-way so I can adjust all the amp volumes levels as well. It does sound much better since removing the Topping Pre90 that I had in there though. Can't say that the DAC's volume seems to make much difference to the output quality ?
@fx-studio I was using the volume on the dac unto the AE1's initially. Then 'A British Audiophile' mentioned he didn't like its use sound quality wise. The formentioned S17 was released, so I bought blind and it's perfect in sound and facilities.
After pure analog sources with tape and vinyl the scam swindle wanted to sell more complex and expensive crap and came with dacs so the more you pay for dacs the more you could get the analog alike textures back in your system 🤔
Lol it's the Venn diagram of technology, consumerism and TH-cam 😅 stop watching comparisons vids bro it's quite simple (!) The over-abundance of new Lego sets probably doesn't piss you off because you're not paying attention to them.. 🙃 Do what makes you feel happy 🙏🤝✨
Zigma Delta DAC are lifeless, not organic, l have all of these models but my reference NAIM DAC with R2R Burr Brown, PCM1704 , with inbuilt 40 bit DSP Floating-Point Digital Signal Processing from analog device is unbeatable with it comes to sound stage , organic, resolution . 👋👋👋👋👋👋👋
I want to wish all of us a New Year filled with amazing and insightful reviews from IIWI. There are not many channels that bring such joy just by announcing a new video release!
Thanks! Your channel is unique in the way you convey the sound of these amazing devices. Great Channel!👍
I'm glad you enjoy it. Thanks for your support! 👍
Dear Srboljub - thank you again for such an amazing review. It blows me away every time how rich your vocabulary is and how rich and subtle, finely granulated and differentiated your descriptions are. I would love to know how you achieved your superior command of Englisn.
It sounds like DACs are now at an incredible performance level that would have required astronomical investments only a few years ago.
Вама лично и вашим најмилијима желим много здраву, срећну и успешну Нову годину
All the best, Rob in Switzerland
I have the opportunity to just have gotten the Holo Audio Red Streamer /DDC along with the Holo Audio Cyan 2 DAC.
I'm using the Holo Red as a Roon Bridge via network alomg with my Roon Nucleus One, feeding the Holo Audio Cyan 2 DAC via I2S to the new Musical Fidelity A1.
Your review on Audio Cyan 2 DAC was one of the two bigger influences i had, to pull the trigger on the Holo Audio combo.
I'm very impressed, very happy, I have reach a level of satisfaction and enjoyment with these combo that I don't forsee wanting to make change or wanting more, at least in the next 5 years or so.
Thanks for your reviews, you are one of the best, I mostly just follow you, Toram from British Audiophile and Hans Beekhuyzen and maybe one or two more.
Your work is very good, keep it up! And thanks for Influencing my desision to get the holo Audio red/cyan 2 combo 👍
I'm glad you enjoyed my review of the Cyan 2 and that you found it helpful! It's great to hear that you're happy with the setup.
I would love to hear a comparison between the Gustard X26 III and the Denefrips Pontus II 15th ed.
Thanks for the review. I've been waiting for this x26 III vs D90D comparison.
Another excellent review sir. Many thanks to you for al your hard work and thorough comparisons. Unbeatable resource.
thank you for the review making comparisons between different dacs truly help you and Koji from convincemeaudio are hands down the best unfiltered reviewers keep it up and happy new year ❤❤❤❤
Schitt load of inputs 😂 love it ..
Great review.
Thank you, thank you for a much desired review of X26iii. I'm so glad I waited. I'm not an R2R guy. Micro detail, powerful dynamic and extremely airy presentation of X26iii is my choice.
same
@@nusu5331it’s been fascinating watching the interplay over the last few years… r2r designs more closely approaching delta sigma in some of their deficiencies, and vice-versa… excited what performance will look like in another 5, 10, 20 years
Great review. I like the details you present.
Great review, a lot of people forget about to describe the bass details. Also like how many comparison were done!
I tend not to change a lot in my life. If I find an electronic item that I enjoy, I will use it for years or until it quits. I would love to sample all these products that you get to review but I am happy with what have. Happy new year.
After trying some separate dacs (D70s, Pontus 2, Fezz Equinox) I tried an older Limetree Network (2x AK4493) with Allo Shanti and it sounded the best in my system with the most impressive soundstage. Seems that synergy is key and it put all reviews in perspective. So indeed, enjoy whatever you like 😊
Thank you and wishing you a healthy and prosperous New Year.
Thank you for your priceless work. Healthy and
Happy New Year !!!🎉🎉🎉
Good review again!.
All the Best for '25 from Bonny Scotland!.
That percussion group sounds AWESOME on my system! What a great recording! THANKS!😊
Glad you like it. 🎶
Always impressed with your ability to describe differences between components. Would love to hear your review of the Schiit Yggdrasil More is Better DAC.
Great review. I am going to wait to upgrade my AH90 until there is a clear winner that can get close to the capabilities of the newer dacs but with the streaming and headphone capability of the AH90. Your reviews are a delight. I hope it happens .
Always excellent. Cool runnings.
Wonder how this compares to the x30. That one seems to have two 9039 pro per channel.
Great review, as always. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the LTA Aero DAC. It’s phenomenal.
The new Topping Centaurus R2R DAC, engineered with Holo Audio, may be the new benchmark below $1K!
I'd like to know how the Centaurus compares with the D90 iii discrete......
@@richardcooperk You might soon get an answer from @PassionforSound on his channel...
The Centaures sits right in the middle between Gustard R26 (a flawed unit in reality) and Holo Audio May measurementvise. I should expect it to sound pretty good 😊
For anyone looking at both centaurus and d90 discrete here's Initial impressions. Ive had both for a few days. The Centaurus is very smooth. Female and male vocals sound fuller and lusher. slightly less spacial separation.
The d90 discrete is more open sounding, better spacial separation with a tighter grip on micro details. The discrete is very neutral and precise again with lots of micro detail control and an open sounding presentation. The Centaurus has an ever so slightly warmer presentation with very nice (better) vocal depth and natural instrument decay. I'd say for those that listen to jazz, funk, classical or anything with a lot of vocal and natural Instruments the Centaurus imo is the better pick. For those that listen to electronic, pop, rock etc the discrete imo is the better pick. From a build quality standpoint both are good with same rear io but I prefer the Centaurus screen and like the vu meter etc however having an actual volume control knob on the d90 discrete is nice. Two nice offerings from topping that tick different boxes while competing on the same general level.
Very thanks
I'd say it also very much depends on the rest of you gear, room, etc.
It is a flowing process that never stops. Just like graphics card development or TV.
Again, another great review. You did a awesome job comparing the X26iii with your curated DAC. I hope you you get to review Gustard!’s current flagship X30 too,
It sounds like a photo finish. I think I could live with each of this DACs. Still love my Denafrips Hermes/Pontus12th setup
I always love your reviews because it comes from how you feel! I have been looking for a new DAC for ages to replace my going on 6 year old Smsl VMV D1 which its time was something else! Some reviewer sites with pricey test gear call R2R DACs not worth your time. I wish you could get a Geshelli Dayzee but that can't happen unfortunately, and that would be one I wish you could compare. I listen to rock, synth, as well as classical so an all rounder is what I need. I wouldn't mind a Laiv but $2.7k usd is more than I can pay. Thanks for your time in all this!
excellent review, thank you
Would be interested in a follow up video of the Harmony to see how you have maximized performance from it.
Great review 👍👍👍👍
I have the Topping D90III Discrete 1-Bit and it I a great pairing with my tube amplifiers
I am waiting until next Black Friday sale season and ….
Keeping what I have, getting the Topping 900 1-Bit due out any day, or the Pontus 15th or ???
It seems like there is so much change, which I am enjoying, and I will move forward in one or two year upgrade sale cycles so keeping up with these great reviews is fun to watch, the DAC wars
I owned D90 Discrete for 2 months, but I sold it, because it simply didn't fit in my system, which is absolutely neutral and revealing. My jazz, classical, acoustic preferences also didn't help. I've purchased Pontus 15th afterwards, which is fantastic, musical and natural sounding DAC and I'm absolutely thrilled. Pontus 15th is my DAC for the next 5+ years. However I have to admit that for some type of music D90 Discrete does excellent job. Also worth to mention, I found D90 Discrete as a great headphone setup DAC, where its detailed yet musical nature really shines. It's all about your preferences, system setup and a listening room. Try before buy.
Can't wait till you review the new OPPING Centaurus R2R Dac...hopefully its great cuz i have my eye on it!
"What? Gustard 26 Series is not your favorite anymore? Hold my beer please." LOL...hilarious.
Love your channel.
Gustard X26 III and Denafripes Athena or Hades a good combo? For Rock music.
Thx so much for this review and the comparison with D90 III Discrete!
My A90 Discrete is waiting for the new partner 😂
Now waiting for some discounts!
Happy new year.
So relevant comparisons, thank you! Extra credit for comparing the internal streamer! It is surprising (but still useful) that you compared the Laiv Harmony with the X26iii, when usually people compare that with the X30. I am curious on an upcoming comparison with the X30 (which has better clock, dynamic range, perhaps PSU). Thank you for your nuanced reviews, keep up the good work, and Happy New Year!
Can you do a review on the Denafrips Pontus 15th anniversary
id love to see your review of the jds labs element iv, your analytical approach would be nice when considering purchasing that device
Great review.. would LOVE to see a review of the new Schiit Gungnir 2! I currently have a Bifrost 2/64 and was thinking of upgrading to the Gungnir but am intrigued by the Cyan 2 and would love a comparison
As you mentioned you do have great hifi setup...could you please tell what do you have exactly?
Thanks!
Have you checked for the hidden "Sound Mode" in the Web interface? The X30, which is a doubled X26 in essence, has it and the setting "Directly" increases clarity and speed compared to the softer and default "Musically".
Thanx for a great year. It has bin peasure to follow you.
Definitely need to see a Schiit DAC on this channel - forkbeard version of Yggy should be out soon
I just picked up with the d90 iii discrete and the Centaurus both open box ex review/test units for £700 each. Now I have two styles I can swap out depending on my mood. Coulda bought a gustard but hell I got stinking deals and I'm now done for a couple years at least. My dac search is over! These decisions can be stressful nowadays, so much competition and constant innovation!
How do Discrete and Centaurus compare?
@@justasimplefox Initial impressions. The Centaurus is very smooth. Female and male vocals sound fuller and lusher. slightly less spacial separation.
The d90 discrete is more open sounding, better spacial separation with a tighter grip on micro details. The discrete is very neutral and precise again with lots of micro detail control and an open sounding presentation. The Centaurus has an ever so slightly warmer presentation with very nice vocal depth and natural instrument decay. I'd say for those that listen to jazz, funk, classical or anything with a lot of vocal and natural Instruments the Centaurus imo is the better pick. For those that listen to electronic, pop, rock etc the discrete imo is the better pick. From a build quality standpoint both are good with same rear io but I prefer the Centaurus screen and like the vu meter etc however having an actual volume control knob on the d90 discrete is nice. Two nice offerings from topping that tick different boxes while competing on the same general level.
@@JMJM75257 Thanks for this answer, very helpful 👌🏻
Great review as alway, thanks! Especially your comparisons are so good!! 🙏 Best wishes too! 😊 In the meantime I got the Cyan 2 with a Synergistic Pink fuse. Would be great if you could review that combination!?
Do you like it? I am between Cyan2 and Laiv Harmony... 🥺
@@beslemetoit’s a fine warm sounding DAC in comparison with the Chord Qutest DAC, I had before. It is all about personal taste and the combination with the right bridge, so difficult to advise you. I love Chord DAC’s more, I think, but you can’t go wrong, I think. Wait for the CES…perhaps a new kid in town. The LaiV is fine, but to expensive for me. The Gustard is very attractive too by the way.
@@jos5067 How would you describe the Qutest DAC sound?
@@beslemeto less analog sounding perhaps 🤔 But don’t forget: I have old ears 👂 so a more clear sound is preferred, I think. 🤔 Also, and don’t forget: The Cyan can only use one 1️⃣ input. So, I bought a Shitt modi 3 DAC for with My TV to watch Music videos. That’s a fine solution, but instead I could buy the gustard. Anyhow: you can’t go wrong with any of them, it’s just a matter of taste, functionality and looks. And that makes it difficult enough…
to contest with the Harmony DAC, you may need to get the Gustard X30 or Musetec DA006
Perfect thx
Between the X30 and the X26 III, Gustard has given some great options that seem to lead the pack at their price points. Doesn't mean one can't enjoy everything in-between but these are on my next to consider list.
This year I bought a new amp and speakers. The Van Alstine CA-1 and Audel Magika II, speakers that weren't even on my list but are a nice set that came up discounted as an outgoing model. My dac is currently the D70s and I also have the Aune X18th w/ the Sparkos and Aune PS, which work well with the system for most of the music I listen too.
What I get with the amp and speakers is alot of transparency and a mostly neutral sound which slides to a brighter side of neutral at times depending the recording. I don't usually care for a too rounded or dark sound but I think more bass punch and mid-range note weight would help. This works for movie soundtracks and most music.
What I am looking for is more stage depth, separation as space and effects that are embedded in the recording comes through better. There are wider sounding speakers but I prefer having depth over width.
I did listen to a Sabaton album which sounded surprisingly good whereas on my previous speakers it did not. A review wrote about the Audel is that it has a "calm, gentle sound" in comparison to other speakers. While I find it has transparency and remains capable of Dynamic shifts, there is something noticeable about this particular quality which I like. It stops the presentation from going over the top and jolting, or from becoming overbearing. So, an even punchier dac would still work I am thinking,
Also, at this time, the RCA connections have to provide the same quality of output as the XLR as my system utilizes only RCA jacks. Doesn't mean down the road I wouldn't put together a system using XLR connectivity but it will be awhile before spending more in this hobby.
While there is alot of used, discounted and new I would like to try, whether speakers or amps, I am cutting myself off for now. But the next consideration would be the dac even though my current ones will likely last for many years. One will be used on a desktop but its overkill for the speakers I will use and perhaps headphones are next for desktop music listening. Typically, the desktop is for podcasts.
So, I will see what the next year holds.
what about x26 vs. harmony scene depth and layering? very interesting in this
Sharp ear my friend! I noticeably noticed the lack of depth perceptions as well. Other than compressing the center channel forward it looks like we have found our Achilles heel! Still, there are ways and this DAC looks like great value!
I still don't get why Gustard insists in including a streamer with their dacs. I'd very much prefer if they would just keep it separate and price the dacs cheaper. Also, recent Topping dacs include PEQ capability with i really appreciate, giving them more flexibility.
I have the A26 and I wouldnt make the sideways move for the X26 III. I also use an Innuos Phoenix with the the A26 and it makes a big difference. If I didnt have either I would just get a X30. I would just get a X30, but it is not cheap. I have wondered how much of a difference the Phoenix would make on the X30.
The Renderer in the X30 ist updated and you need a realy good expensive Streamer to Beat the Performance. Is in another Level like A26 or R26 Renderer. Same with the Clock
@@StefanFrerichs-w4d Ya I dont really need a streamer. I still am quite happy with my A26/Phoenix combo. I think if I did upgrade Id have to go all in for a X30...it looks like a beast
Great insight as always, but how good does your associated equipment need to be to hear the differences you discuss here? What’s the minimum where you will struggle vs where you will easily notice?
E.g. Will you hear with 1k speakers, 3k speakers, 2k amp, 750 headphones etc, etc? As a point of reference I can’t hear a difference between my Mojo 2, Zen DAC V2 or SMSL SU-1, all used in different systems, with Edition XS or Moondrop Kato. With Tidal via WiiM Pro.
Any examples in particular tracks would be much appreciated. E.g. I can hear this at X time stamp with this DAC, but not with this one. As opposed to it just being ‘better’ or ‘wider’.
Thanks.
He only hears the differences he wants to hear
That’s called psychoacoustic
I like this question, I was wondering this too, I have an Audiolab 8300a amp with a Audolab 8300CDQ cd player which has a ESS Sabre32 9018 chip DAC inside. I can add something in the middle of the chain as the amp has a power amp mode (& also pre too). I have Bowers 707s3 speakers. Will I benefit by adding anything, if so, where?
I may have missed it but do the SE outputs perform equally well as the XLR, retaining the overall SQ and stage depth given adjusting for volume output from higher voltage?
great review as always.thoughts on 26 vs quetist?
I didn't listen to Qutest for some time now so it's difficult to make any trustworthy comparisons. However, I clearly preferred Gustard R26 to Qutest for example and I belive it would be the same for X26 III. It should have more bass depth, more dynamics across the frequency spectrum, and even more details.
Your content is awesome! Love it! Am I foolish in thinking the end game dac that I will want in a few years will be an r2r/deltasigma hybrid?
Every farmer's dream: a woolly milk Pig that can lay eggs.😎
Hopefully you'll do a review of the Geshelli Dayzee. It's got some rave reviews lately.
I will wait for D900 and A26 III 😊
Please consider a review of the Emotiva BasX A2 Mini. I have already bought the Wharfedale Diamond 220s and the SMSL SU-1 that you recommended in an earlier video. I am now considering the Emotiva BasX A2 Mini, Denon PM 600NE, Sony STRDH 190, and Fosi V3 to play rock at low volume, nearfield, in my small, bright apartment. I prefer a warmer sound, so might choose the more expensive Denon, but am considering the perhaps more dynamic Emotiva, cheaper Sony, or more portable Fosi. Any insight is welcome. Thanks!
I noticed with Sabre dacs that they really start to bloom after about 30 minutes. Is that also the case with this one?
Thanks for the music!….i will just stick with my smooth Rivo>Iris>Pontus II and just enjoy the new tunes!!! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 😀
gustard X30 please review
How does it compare to the Schiit Bifrost 2/64. BTW i may pair it with my Burson Soloist 3xp and hifiman Arya but will wait for reviews on the upcoming A26 III
Can you review one of the new Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 interfaces and compare its DAC to these separate DAC's?
This can replace a separate streamer and separate DAC into one box?
Thanks for the review. To answer your question I don’t like the silver look. I prefer black which matches my all black system, including the Cyan 2.
Is this GUSTARD X26 III better then internal EverSolo DMP-A8 dac? Which one is more open on mid and heigh frequency? :)
I have doupt is it worth to buy that gustard to use as external dac with DMP-A8, or that's not big step up?
I think X26 III is better, especially when it comes to dynamics and bassline slam. About mids and highs though... I also feel they are better but not as much. Also not sure if that kind of difference would justify the price of the upgrade tbh.
has Lampucera taken a back seat.
Yes, Laiv Harmony DAC is a bit richer and bigger sounding. But it is holding its ground very well and it can still put up good fight against almost any model.
Hello, i have node x with linear psu, what will be beter choice add topping d90 discrete dac and use node to stream tidal, or this gustard for tidal conect stream. Thanks
Hi. I never tested Node X so this one is really difficult to answer. Worth noting here is that X26 III doesn't support Tidal connect directly. Either Roon or UPnP would have to be used.
@@iiWiReviews I think i will keep node and blueos software and add external dac.What are you sugest around 1000 euro prince range this topping or maybe some of r2r dacs? Spekaers are b&w 703 s3 and musical fidelity m5si amp
D90 III Discrete is a no brainer in my mind. It is outperforming any other DAC of that price to my ears. I will soon try Topping Centaurus too but I expect it to be slightly different flavour (milder R2R) not better.
Hi iiWi, i have smsl m500 which i like a lot. I would like to ask you, is gustard r26 much better sounding dac than m500? Best regards
To my ears it is noticeably better with soundstaging, and there is more bass weight and more details too. But the question is always if the rest of the system (plus room placement is important for big soundstage) is transparent enough for that difference to be noticeable or not.
Does the affiliate link works also for the black version in EUR?
Hi, yes it should work for all versions in any currency. Thank you for using it by the way. It helps a lot to keep the party going.
I have two questions re these a little confused about function. Are any of these good for being a pre-amp/dac hybrid? Also, would I benefit by adding one, I both an Audiolab 8300a amp with a Audolab 8300CDQ cd player which has a ESS Sabre32 9018 chip DAC. I can add something in the middle of the chain as the amp has a power amp mode (& also pre too). I have Bowers 707s3 speakers. Will I benefit by adding anything, if so, where?
I'd probably go with the Gustard X26 III over the LAiV Harmoney DAC because it is $1K cheaper. Diminishing Returns.
I also have a concern. What happens if I use this dac (5.1 vrms on xlr) with the Rotel Rc 1590 preamp which supports max 4v on xlr? Do they match, does the preamp overload, does distortion, clipping occur? I'm a NOOB :), pls help.
It would clip so you would here distorted sound when song gets loud. You could slove it by simply decreasing the volume level on the DAC a few clicks.
@@iiWiReviews Thank you very much, you are a very honest reviewer. I follow your channel with great pleasure. In the situation where I have to use the preamp part of the DAC, isn't it better to remove the preamplifier from the system? I assume that going through two attenuation stages (DAC+preamp) will sound bad. Even so, the problem persists because the amplifier supports a maximum of 1.65V, so, again, I assume that the maximum volume in the DAC will be 35% before clipping. I suppose this is not ideal either. It is so hard to build a good system.
Another great review man
Waiting for the R26 II
I'm waiting for the Z10😂
@@frederf69 I don't know what a Z10 is but I am waiting for "The Winds of Winter"
Keep the fire burning ✌️😎👍@@D1N02
Topping $1000 vs Gustard $1600 for marginally different presentation with both Dac's offering exceptional quality. If $$ not a concern then by all means go for the MSB Cascade at a paltry $95K😊
excellent review! thank you! probably found my next dac. want to pair it with a violectric HPA V222. sadly that amp got very high ranking reviews but i hardly found any comparisons to others in that price range. if someone would suggest which amps to look at, i would much appreciate. main priority is soundstage depth and height. neutral presentation and tonality. basically it should just amplify what comes out of the dac. It should be able to drive my DCA Ether 2 magnetostats properly. from reading class a and discrete might be useful. no tubes pls
Don't chase, there is no end. Rather find something you like and enjoy it.
Have never sat with my R26 and did not smile, and in my opinion that's what matters.
Audirvana?
Like Audirvāna it supports UPnP.
Great review. So many DAC out there to choose from. Can be a headache. Stop going into the rabbit hole.
It would be good if their return policy was better so we can try few before choose our winner..
As a fan of vintage digital equipment, this Dac and others in the same price range are not an option the reason being there are not enough inputs.
♥
Prefer long narrow DAC'S
Fit better in the rack 😊
Not sure about the G on the front, but I've seen worse looking gear.
Love the dual transformers.
Why?
100% agree, would look much classier without the G
@@justasimplefox
I mean the Double Tramsformers.
@@AWEG-qu8bz well as much as I like to think switching power can match linear I just don't know.
I do know my class AB integrated amp has a hefty transformer.
How can you compare old dacs that you heard a long time ago?????????????
Indirectly trough the DAC that you compare all of these with. It serves as a familiar reference.
@iiWiReviews but you haven't compared non if these to r26 or a26, only a true blind test will reveal the differences
Dude has a point. That is just not trustworthy. Especially when listening to that much gear, you simply cannot do such a comparison against a device you heared more than a year ago. I rather have leas comparisons that are indeed side by side sich as Darko calls it.
OK, let me try and explain. For example, R26 was with me for two years and up until two months ago. I compared it directly to Cyan 2, Harmony, and Topping D90 III Descrete. I know where it stands compared to them very well, what it did equally good, what not. Now X26 III was compared to all of those 3 DACs directly too.
Now, if both Topping D90 III D and Cyan 2 had more speed and tiny deteils than R26, and X26 III has more speed and deteils than both D90 III D and Cyan 2... I can without any doubt claim that X26 III has more speed and deteils than R26. It's basic deduction. It's same for soundstaging, bass slam, etc.
If I was not capable of making these comparison with very high certainty I wouldn't.
@@iiWiReviews thx for taking the time to respond. I misunderstood that the older gustard model was already gone for a long time.
So… what is your favorite DAC under $3K?
LAIV Harmony obviously
genius...
X30 vs laiv harmony vs Musician Taurus
Have the x30. Anyone wants to lend me a Taurus or Laiv I will let you know how they compare😊
My setup is the Gustard R26 along with the U16 DDC both with an external clock. IMO this setup beats any $10k DAC in detail retrieval, air, holographics, stage, tone decay, timber, bass punch and detail. It checks all the boxes for me. I tried a number of DACs and this is it.
Which external clock do you use?
Similar. I sent back my DDC and put away my clock. Wiim streamer with optical out 👌🏾
@@DavidLinde-i9n th-cam.com/video/Wm4MXcV9E3Y/w-d-xo.htmlsi=jIayMsc2pStI6mm0.
Works like a charm👍
I have a Gustard A26 its a very good brand for sure.
Being able to adjust the volume on the DAC means the pre-amp can be skipped - which gives better sound unless you have $3K to drop on a really good one.
Used mine this way. Later bought the Aune S17 Pro. Way better as preamp plus lovely headphone amp too.
Sony CDP-XA20ES CD Player as transport+ Acoustic Energy ae1 active speakers.
Decent cables too.
@@peterlynn3190 Class A - looks very nice.
My system is 4-way so I can adjust all the amp volumes levels as well.
It does sound much better since removing the Topping Pre90 that I had in there though.
Can't say that the DAC's volume seems to make much difference to the output quality ?
@fx-studio I was using the volume on the dac unto the AE1's initially. Then 'A British Audiophile' mentioned he didn't like its use sound quality wise.
The formentioned S17 was released, so I bought blind and it's perfect in sound and facilities.
Where is R26 II?
Ohh Cyan 2 is holding it,
with lower price😂
After pure analog sources with tape and vinyl the scam swindle wanted to sell more complex and expensive crap and came with dacs so the more you pay for dacs the more you could get the analog alike textures back in your system 🤔
Thank you, it's not interesting! It has already happened somewhere. It was 2030, Gustard X 300 GT...
FIRST!🎉
🥳🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉🥳
Reverend Dr. Thomas,
✝️ The Vegan Vicar 🌱
got the cyan 2 with pink fuse take a nocth op or two up ------- but fuse cost 249 dollers
😂
Omg no ....
I´m SO tired of this DAC Epidemic.
Yeah.. way too many variations these days
It's DACidemic my dear Watson.
Lol it's the Venn diagram of technology, consumerism and TH-cam 😅 stop watching comparisons vids bro it's quite simple (!) The over-abundance of new Lego sets probably doesn't piss you off because you're not paying attention to them.. 🙃 Do what makes you feel happy 🙏🤝✨
The Chinese throw everything out there in break neck speed and see what sticks.
But this one has chocolatey midrange
Zigma Delta DAC are lifeless, not organic, l have all of these models but my reference NAIM DAC with R2R Burr Brown, PCM1704 , with inbuilt 40 bit DSP Floating-Point Digital Signal Processing from analog device is unbeatable with it comes to sound stage , organic, resolution .
👋👋👋👋👋👋👋
Luxman D08u Sacd-Burn-Brown 1792 A monoaural mode x2 Top class dac!!!