Hey Nemo, nice to see you around! I constantly watch some of your videos. Thanks for the endorsement and support, but since I'm located in Romania, the TH-cam algorithm doesn't recommend my videos, hence the reach and subscriber count, my weird Eastern European accent might have to do something as well. 😅Thanks for the support and for all of the positivity, it helps me tremendously. I'll get there someday, but not very soon.
@@Soundnews maybe I'm crazy but the accent makes me feel people are more trustworthy lol, like even when I watch iiWi i think the same thing. Of course logically I know it makes no difference :) I have a theory that the algorithm current goal is to really push 3-5 channels in any given space and drop the rest so the platform is easier to navigate for the audience. But I'm really just guessing here.
Nemo, I totally agree with you! I purchased my Keces E40 inegrated amp (which I hope to build a new system around in the coming year) and my OG Topping D90 DAC (non MQA, AKM 4497 chip) based on Sando's reviews.
I'd like to see you review the Holo Cyan 2. Affordable, reasonable size, and reviews I've seen so far are quite interesting! It's rare to see pure NOS dacs covered anywhere, and I would very much appreciate your opinion!
This was so well explained. I wish more would get into the nuanced aspects of why a serious, well designed Dac is important. Thank you for such a well balanced review and sharing your philosophy of the purpose behind this design. Only problem, this is now my new Dac crush 🙏🏼
I totally agree with you and you gave an accurate appraisal of the X30 DAC. I bought this DAC, I already own the X26pro and A26 from Gustard and they are very good. But this X30 DAC is on another level altogether. Well done for the review and thank you.
Wow, Sandu! This is “sounding” 😃like an awesome DAC. You have become masterfully articulate in your covering of all the important bases of performance in your reviews. Your enthusiasm about the 30 is confidence inspiring.
Apparently Gustard reached the potential I always thought they would. Pleasant to know they never gave up the "no quality compromises attitude" that defined the company's core ethos. As a happy X26 Pro owner for some years I can only imagine how good this baby sounds, the next step concept this unit represents. Love the design also!👍
Not gonna lie, this is exactly how I thought this review was going to go. And it's unfortunate, because I love my Wavedream Signature Balanced, but now I really want to try this.
@@mitchellburns92 That statement has me torn because I know that the X30 is going to measure textbook perfect, but I also know that the Wavedream Signature Balanced measures extremely bad, but outperforms every other DAC I've ever heard at any price point by a colossal margin, including DACs like the X26 and others that measure essentially perfect.
I can appreciate measurements but I won’t ever let measurements be the deciding factor however a bad measuring dac would play on my mind. Obviously how it sounds is key but I’d like to have the measurements back up what I’m hearing. If you enjoy what you have keep it, there’s always going to be something new. If you can wait until 2026 grab yourself the may dac 2, I’m hearing some pretty interesting things. Last note Gustard is bringing out a streamer in the same league as the x30 so could be a good pairing with I2s.
As always, this was a great review Sando. If I was still single the Gustard X30 would already be on order, based on your praise. However it's size and cost make it out of range now. I'm currently considering the Holo Audio Cyan 2, will you be reviewing that DAC?
As always, a great review! I watched your YT vid first and then read the long form review. I really enjoyed the long written reviews. Keep doing them. If someone has a shorter attention span, they can watch the video. For OCD audiophiles, we want the in-depth analysis, details and nuance with comparisons. Keep up the good work!
Hi In your review you tested the X30 with I²S, I am just wondering if you tested it with the other inputs...like the USB in paticular. I have a A26, but would love to try an X30. I also have an Innuos Phoenix, thats why the USB question. Thanks for the awesome review.
Thanks. Love your reviews! Will you ever review the Schiit Yggdrasil? I think you'd like it I recently bought one after owning some decent tube dacs and r2r dacs. The Yggy is very nice indeed. Retains a lot of what I loved in my previous dacs but in a more alive and energetic manner.
Hi, I recently purchased the x30, and so far, I am very impressed. The detail is exceptional. I am using an eversolo DMP-a8 as the streamer. I have a question. When using the i2s connection, am I using the clock in the x30 or the A8? I read some posts that say using the usb connection will use the x30's clock, but the i2s connection used the clock in the A8. I'd appreciate any insight.
Gustard X30 vs LAiV Harmony DAC. Who ya got? Harmony wins the compact build category hands down, but I'd go with the more Impactful, Dynamic X30 if I was in the market for a new DAC. Also, AKM vs ESS DAC Chips. Which do you like more?
He prefers x30, I think 4499 or 9039 is not a problem, because there are many more factors in a Dac. I think currently there are no 4499 dacs that can compare to the x30 (maybe we'll have to wait until Gustard releases the A30).
@@JTB-- maybe yes, maybe no. I also like the A26 more than the R26. I'm looking forward to the A30 or R30, but it may never come or be a long time away, I have information about the X30 since March and they don't sell it until July, there is no information about the A30 yet or R30
What would the topology be for a potential A30? R30 if it comes would of course be R2R but surely they wouldn’t release another chip based dac with the x30.
Gustard X30 or Denafrips Pontus 15th, if you were about to place an order (connect it to the new Eversolo A10 via audio-isolated USB which will be used as steamer / preamp connected to a NAD M23 power amp)?
Thanks sandu for such a detailed review. From your longer than usual written review, i get the impression that you are absolute impressed by this dac. Happy to seeGustard really have taken a major step forward into total DS dac design. SInce you rate this dac to high vs even the dave or wave dream, would it be safe to say the gustard x30 surpasses the ferrum wandla? thank you
It does, he say top 5 dac for him today is 1. Rockna wavedream signature - 2. Chord Dave with Mscaler - 3. Aquarius Taurus - 4+5. X30/Tambaqui (same rank)
Hi Sandu, Thanks for this review ! What are the bigger differences between the Taurus and the X30? You rank the Taurus ahead of the X30. I'm looking afrer a new DAC. - Pre is a Holo Audio Serene KTE - Streamer is a Eversolo A8. - Power amp is a Keces S300. What will be your advice? Thanks 😁
He answer at the website: "Subjectively speaking, I like the Gustard a bit more for a couple of reasons - it has much wider feature set (R2R volume control - good passive preamp, proper digital filters that sound different, an Ethernet input that's Roon enabled, low output impedance) and since I'm a dynamics and resolution junkie (things X30 excels at), I tend to prefer the X30. The Taurus is however, the holography king - the soundstage and imagining of this guy are spectacular / world class, up there with my Rockna at 1/4 of its price. The Taurus also has a fuller bodied tone, a thicker timbre and some note bonding skills that only R2R converters mastered as of yet, something that X30 was also blessed with to a certain degree. In the end. it depends on the use case and personal preference, one might prefer the Taurus in detriment of the X30 and vice versa."
Hello Sandu, I want to share some important information with you. Listening and experimenting with the X30, I gained experience that I want to share with you. The thing is, as I found out, the manufacturer replaced the fuse with an improved one for a reason - this DAC is very sensitive to the quality of the fuse. I replaced the factory Gustard fuse with a purple SR and got a huge increase in sound quality. Then they sent me some silver inserts from xangsan to try, covered with rhodium and platinum. Let me clarify - not a hollow tube, but a solid silver rod. I stuck them into the Gustard X30. I understand that this is not safe, but I was very interested. The result is this - I advise you to try it, just to understand how the X30 can sound! Honestly, I did not expect this. The bass of the X30 is already good, but now its dynamics and texture have become even better. The midrange has gained weight, as if the tonal balance has shifted towards analog sound. The most pleasant changes are in the high frequencies. The sound has become more transparent. On tracks with high whistling sounds, they have become noticeably more correct, more pleasant. And the atmosphere in the music has been added... the stage in all directions is perceived as more large-scale. The DAC has begun to sound much more expensive than its price. I think this will surprise you so much that you will be able to record an additional video about how good this DAC actually sounds. Perhaps this applies to any device that can have its power restrictions removed in this way, but it is worth it - it sounds great.
Hi Evgeny, great info and I'm glad it sounds considerably better now! Could you please clarify this part a little bit: "Then they sent me some silver inserts from xangsan to try, covered with rhodium and platinum". Who are they and where I can find these "Silver inserts from xangsan"? Google doesn't help much :) Thank you in advance!
What you have done is like playing Russian fuse roulette with your X30. Manufacturers use fuses for a reason. You might be ok for a long time, but you are also at risk of frying your X30 at any moment.
Very interesting review I agree in many idea about R2R and DS DAC, I also tested the R26 and X26 pro in my system... so I know... Do you think to test also the new LKS 006 Musetec?
when tuning the XTC headphones I rely on a natural sound true to the source and rely on the Gustard A26 - how would you say the X30 compares to A26 as far as honest organic sound?
You are looking at the Rockna Wavedream NET which is: a Roon Server, a Roon Endpoint, a Digital Transport, a Music Server (4 TB of SSD storage), a CD Player and a CD Ripper. Such a review wasn't planned, but now that you've asked, I'll think about it. However, this isn't an affordable unit and I'm not sure my channel is ready for that, honestly.
I am in the market for a better DAC -currently using a SMSL M500 . $3000 is a significant investment , especially if I buy it will be without having auditioned . My question is , will the X30 be SIGNIFICANTLY better than I use at the moment? I EXPECT IT TO BLOW ME AWAY
Hi! I can't toy with your income and I cannot tell which DAC will (or will not) blow you away, but I can attest that in a well-thought system, X30 is a SIGNIFICATLY better unit in all regards compared to the SMSL M500 (first, second or third generation).
Purchased based on this and another review. Gave it a week. Tried usb and Iiis connection. Worst of three Dacs I own. Purchased warmer speakers, no good. Replaced with my Pontius 2. Fortunately can return Amazon.
@@nolly485 Upon further testing my opinion has changed. Using a Matrix Audio X-SPDIF2 the phase needs to be inverted on both Dacs. Agree with Soundnews review. Pontus 2 is still a great Dac
For the price I would just step up to the Mola Mola Tambaqui and yes it is quite more yet stunning in sound and looks to me. Once you reach $9000 you migjt as well go a little higher.
@@KXP70 I was going off of what was posted here, never looked it up lol. If that is the case I would buy the LAiV Harmony. I own the RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE and love it and have not even needed to adjust anything. The Tambaqui is my goal though and more than likely a used one for far less.
Yes, my colleague Catalin - owns and uses the Tambaqui. That one is even smoother sounding (actually it's one of the smoothest DACs I have tried), but it doesn't offer the same resolution, nor the same impact and control as the X30 provides. Both are great and you should choose one according to your preference.
@@Soundnews Haven't head the X30, but when I compared the Tambaqui to the Wavedream Signature, the MMT was significantly more incisive across the bass, mids and highs yet analogue like smooth and PRAT off the charts, so it's all very dependent on the downstream chain and how that DAC output is handled.
Excellent detailed review Sandu the DacMan ! First TH-camr review and one of the very few I trust. I think your review sealed my next Dac/streamer. Looks like it has all the qualities for an electronic music junky
I respect gustard for trying, the R26 was a real milestone but they are still not there yet unfortunately. The R26 is ugly as sh*t. The X-30 is much nicer, OKish in midrange, questionable display. And costs 2X the R26! 😱 I’m wishing for a nextgen R26 in a decent housing, below 2K EUR. And the huge question is - do they ever introduce a good software to make it a capable streamer, adding streaming services?? The hardware is there, software is missing.
Oh that display is OLED isn't it? Get ready for it to burn in in less than a year, happened to my ifi neo idsd. At least I can turn off the screen on that thing when it's not used to mitigate this problem.
This is the GOAT if your time span is couple seconds (the time need it to plug it in ) . you don't have speakers nor equipment to do any audio reviews. give up
Far too expensive and nothing special, sound quality is practically the same as Topping D90III. 4 x 9039 is just too much of a good thing, with one 9039 chip per channel it would be the maximum. Power supply is just too cheap for the price. So just ridiculous...
Have you auditioned the X30 in a side-by-side comparison with the Topping D90III? Since you have such a strong opinion, it sounds like you must have, correct?
Since the DAC chipset is already a stereo mode chip, there is no increase in performance even if you use 2 or 4 separately. It's an illusion. And looking at the actual performance figures, there is no improvement.
The ES9039 PRO in the X30 is used in mono mode (1 channel) for the highest possible dynamic range and for the lowest possible channel crosstalk. You can check the ES9039PRO spec sheet to find out more about dynamic range and performance increase depending on its working modes. This info is available for everyone and it's not an illusion, but of course, you can believe in whatever you want to believe.
@@Flavius7 its a real question !! i'm always suspicious when someone calls a 3000, or even a 10 000 dollar DAC the best in the world, knowing that there are DAC's that cost 44 000 like the Ideon, and the MSB cost 115 000 dollars, you are the one being unpleasant here. i have Infinity IRS V's with Mark Levinson amps, and DAC it's a genuine question
@@igorkrajnc5915 yes i guess so, i have a VERY old DAC, the Mark Levinson #30.5 (it's over 20 years old) and would like to replace it, but i cannot afford to spend 30000+ anymore, not even close
I did compare x30 with holo spring 3 kte in my system. clearly x30 won. Matter of fact x30 is the best dac I ‘ve owned. previous dac I’ve owned ares, pontus, rme, r26, a26, spring 3 kte, topping d90, qutest and more.
@@dennisyi9038 Very interesting as I am hesitating for weeks between the X30 and the Spring 3 KTE for my main system. Can you elaborate on the differences please? Timbre, dynamics, soundstage, details, naturalness... Which input do you use, USB? Thank you very much!
I am shocked this channel is under 100k subscribers, easily the most in depth and easy to understand dac reviews I've ever seen, bravo!
Hey Nemo, nice to see you around! I constantly watch some of your videos. Thanks for the endorsement and support, but since I'm located in Romania, the TH-cam algorithm doesn't recommend my videos, hence the reach and subscriber count, my weird Eastern European accent might have to do something as well. 😅Thanks for the support and for all of the positivity, it helps me tremendously. I'll get there someday, but not very soon.
@@Soundnews maybe I'm crazy but the accent makes me feel people are more trustworthy lol, like even when I watch iiWi i think the same thing. Of course logically I know it makes no difference :) I have a theory that the algorithm current goal is to really push 3-5 channels in any given space and drop the rest so the platform is easier to navigate for the audience. But I'm really just guessing here.
Nemo, I totally agree with you! I purchased my Keces E40 inegrated amp (which I hope to build a new system around in the coming year) and my OG Topping D90 DAC (non MQA, AKM 4497 chip) based on Sando's reviews.
I'd like to see you review the Holo Cyan 2. Affordable, reasonable size, and reviews I've seen so far are quite interesting! It's rare to see pure NOS dacs covered anywhere, and I would very much appreciate your opinion!
This was so well explained. I wish more would get into the nuanced aspects of why a serious, well designed Dac is important. Thank you for such a well balanced review and sharing your philosophy of the purpose behind this design. Only problem, this is now my new Dac crush 🙏🏼
I totally agree with you and you gave an accurate appraisal of the X30 DAC. I bought this DAC, I already own the X26pro and A26 from Gustard and they are very good. But this X30 DAC is on another level altogether. Well done for the review and thank you.
Tell me something please… i like the sound to be more bright, detailed and from all this 3 units which one do you consider that suits my preference?
I bought the X30 based on this review. It's worth the money. Good advice 👍
I bought the R26 on the basis of your review. I value your opinion and really would like to upgrade to the X30.
Wow, Sandu! This is “sounding” 😃like an awesome DAC. You have become masterfully articulate in your covering of all the important bases of performance in your reviews. Your enthusiasm about the 30 is confidence inspiring.
how you can be on so lower level to believe a guy whois paid to say good things about enything that he reviewings
how you can be on so lower level to believe a guy whois paid to say good things about enything that he reviewings
Apparently Gustard reached the potential I always thought they would. Pleasant to know they never gave up the "no quality compromises attitude" that defined the company's core ethos. As a happy X26 Pro owner for some years I can only imagine how good this baby sounds, the next step concept this unit represents. Love the design also!👍
The mighty praetorian always comes from the shadows and leaves a comment. Thanks my friend 👊
Sandu, you are spot on, not sure how this is going to be beat for a long time.
Not gonna lie, this is exactly how I thought this review was going to go. And it's unfortunate, because I love my Wavedream Signature Balanced, but now I really want to try this.
A few of my audio engineering mates have put this up against some pretty high end dacs and are saying some great things about it.
@@mitchellburns92 That statement has me torn because I know that the X30 is going to measure textbook perfect, but I also know that the Wavedream Signature Balanced measures extremely bad, but outperforms every other DAC I've ever heard at any price point by a colossal margin, including DACs like the X26 and others that measure essentially perfect.
I can appreciate measurements but I won’t ever let measurements be the deciding factor however a bad measuring dac would play on my mind. Obviously how it sounds is key but I’d like to have the measurements back up what I’m hearing. If you enjoy what you have keep it, there’s always going to be something new. If you can wait until 2026 grab yourself the may dac 2, I’m hearing some pretty interesting things.
Last note Gustard is bringing out a streamer in the same league as the x30 so could be a good pairing with I2s.
As always, this was a great review Sando. If I was still single the Gustard X30 would already be on order, based on your praise. However it's size and cost make it out of range now. I'm currently considering the Holo Audio Cyan 2, will you be reviewing that DAC?
Thanks for sharing. Wish can see more comparison with Denafrips, Musician R2R DAC etc.
As always, a great review! I watched your YT vid first and then read the long form review. I really enjoyed the long written reviews. Keep doing them. If someone has a shorter attention span, they can watch the video. For OCD audiophiles, we want the in-depth analysis, details and nuance with comparisons. Keep up the good work!
Hi In your review you tested the X30 with I²S, I am just wondering if you tested it with the other inputs...like the USB in paticular. I have a A26, but would love to try an X30. I also have an Innuos Phoenix, thats why the USB question. Thanks for the awesome review.
Thanks Sandu, the DAC man, for this review. I was waiting for it. Cheers from France, julien.
Dang way to go gustard... you've got a hot product release this year after a couple solid products last year.
Nice review. I would like to hear your review of the new Musetec 006 dac. They seem to be similar.
Thanks. Love your reviews!
Will you ever review the Schiit Yggdrasil? I think you'd like it
I recently bought one after owning some decent tube dacs and r2r dacs. The Yggy is very nice indeed. Retains a lot of what I loved in my previous dacs but in a more alive and energetic manner.
Hi, I recently purchased the x30, and so far, I am very impressed. The detail is exceptional. I am using an eversolo DMP-a8 as the streamer. I have a question. When using the i2s connection, am I using the clock in the x30 or the A8? I read some posts that say using the usb connection will use the x30's clock, but the i2s connection used the clock in the A8. I'd appreciate any insight.
Hi, Between Denafrips Pontus 15th and this Gustard X30 DAC, which in your opinion is the better? Thanks in advance.
I’ve been waiting months for this review
have you compare it with the wandla?
How does it compare to the wandla? Which one do you prefer?
As many others already asked, how does it compare with the Wandla ? Thanks
Gustard X30 vs LAiV Harmony DAC. Who ya got? Harmony wins the compact build category hands down, but I'd go with the more Impactful, Dynamic X30 if I was in the market for a new DAC. Also, AKM vs ESS DAC Chips. Which do you like more?
He prefers x30, I think 4499 or 9039 is not a problem, because there are many more factors in a Dac. I think currently there are no 4499 dacs that can compare to the x30 (maybe we'll have to wait until Gustard releases the A30).
@@vanbuitran1746 Is the A30 a thing? I preferred the A26 Dynamics over the R26 smoother, lacking in Bass presentation
@@JTB-- maybe yes, maybe no. I also like the A26 more than the R26. I'm looking forward to the A30 or R30, but it may never come or be a long time away, I have information about the X30 since March and they don't sell it until July, there is no information about the A30 yet or R30
What would the topology be for a potential A30? R30 if it comes would of course be R2R but surely they wouldn’t release another chip based dac with the x30.
Gustard X30 or Denafrips Pontus 15th, if you were about to place an order (connect it to the new Eversolo A10 via audio-isolated USB which will be used as steamer / preamp connected to a NAD M23 power amp)?
Thanks for the review ! How the X30 compares to the Musician Audio Taurus ?
Waiting for R30 ?!?!
Enjoy your presentations.Thank You.It sounds like the x30 is a refined version of the a26 @ 2x the price. Is it worth it in your view?
Thanks for this review. Beautiful Raidho speakers in the background by the way, I'm jealous! Will you review them as well?
Thanks sandu for such a detailed review. From your longer than usual written review, i get the impression that you are absolute impressed by this dac. Happy to seeGustard really have taken a major step forward into total DS dac design. SInce you rate this dac to high vs even the dave or wave dream, would it be safe to say the gustard x30 surpasses the ferrum wandla? thank you
It does, he say top 5 dac for him today is 1. Rockna wavedream signature - 2. Chord Dave with Mscaler - 3. Aquarius Taurus - 4+5. X30/Tambaqui (same rank)
Sandu, how does the Gustard X30 DAC compare to the Eversolo A8?
비교도 안됩니다
@@이충만-z2l I would even use the (audio-isolated) USB digitial out of the new Eversolo A10 to connect the Gustard X30 (or Denafrips Pontus 15th, tbd)...
Nicely Done.
Who makes those stunning tower speakers that look see through ?
Maybe you already did a review on them.
Thanks
Hi Sandu,
Thanks for this review !
What are the bigger differences between the Taurus and the X30?
You rank the Taurus ahead of the X30.
I'm looking afrer a new DAC.
- Pre is a Holo Audio Serene KTE
- Streamer is a Eversolo A8.
- Power amp is a Keces S300.
What will be your advice?
Thanks 😁
He answer at the website: "Subjectively speaking, I like the Gustard a bit more for a couple of reasons - it has much wider feature set (R2R volume control - good passive preamp, proper digital filters that sound different, an Ethernet input that's Roon enabled, low output impedance) and since I'm a dynamics and resolution junkie (things X30 excels at), I tend to prefer the X30. The Taurus is however, the holography king - the soundstage and imagining of this guy are spectacular / world class, up there with my Rockna at 1/4 of its price. The Taurus also has a fuller bodied tone, a thicker timbre and some note bonding skills that only R2R converters mastered as of yet, something that X30 was also blessed with to a certain degree. In the end. it depends on the use case and personal preference, one might prefer the Taurus in detriment of the X30 and vice versa."
with phoenix ddc . the match will be good?
Hello Sandu, I want to share some important information with you. Listening and experimenting with the X30, I gained experience that I want to share with you. The thing is, as I found out, the manufacturer replaced the fuse with an improved one for a reason - this DAC is very sensitive to the quality of the fuse. I replaced the factory Gustard fuse with a purple SR and got a huge increase in sound quality. Then they sent me some silver inserts from xangsan to try, covered with rhodium and platinum. Let me clarify - not a hollow tube, but a solid silver rod. I stuck them into the Gustard X30. I understand that this is not safe, but I was very interested. The result is this - I advise you to try it, just to understand how the X30 can sound! Honestly, I did not expect this. The bass of the X30 is already good, but now its dynamics and texture have become even better. The midrange has gained weight, as if the tonal balance has shifted towards analog sound. The most pleasant changes are in the high frequencies. The sound has become more transparent. On tracks with high whistling sounds, they have become noticeably more correct, more pleasant. And the atmosphere in the music has been added... the stage in all directions is perceived as more large-scale. The DAC has begun to sound much more expensive than its price. I think this will surprise you so much that you will be able to record an additional video about how good this DAC actually sounds. Perhaps this applies to any device that can have its power restrictions removed in this way, but it is worth it - it sounds great.
Hi Evgeny, great info and I'm glad it sounds considerably better now! Could you please clarify this part a little bit: "Then they sent me some silver inserts from xangsan to try, covered with rhodium and platinum". Who are they and where I can find these "Silver inserts from xangsan"? Google doesn't help much :) Thank you in advance!
@@Soundnews I think it were Reptilians from Alpa Centauri :-))))))))
What you have done is like playing Russian fuse roulette with your X30. Manufacturers use fuses for a reason. You might be ok for a long time, but you are also at risk of frying your X30 at any moment.
@@Soundnews Its a solid hunk of metal, no fuse....yikes
Does anyone know what I2S-G is ?, I would like a new DAC with two I2S inputs. Is it a Gustard specific Implementation ?
I would be curious to have you
put the Dave/ Mscaler up against the X30 with HQ Player upsampling to 768kHz or DSD 512+.
Love your chord toys. Have you ever thought about checking out MSB Dacs? They ain’t cheap.
Very interesting review I agree in many idea about R2R and DS DAC, I also tested the R26 and X26 pro in my system... so I know... Do you think to test also the new LKS 006 Musetec?
Not sure I can get a loaner, plus I'm fully stocked for the next 2-3 months or so. Lots of videos will be dropping soon.
Wow, now i'm between the X30 and the Taurus to match with my he1000se and his excelent soundstage capabilities. Wich one would you pick?
How does it compare to Denafrips Terminator 15th?
Matrix Audio do solid aluminium remote control, beautiful to look at and intuitive and simple functionality.
when tuning the XTC headphones I rely on a natural sound true to the source and rely on the Gustard A26 - how would you say the X30 compares to A26 as far as honest organic sound?
vs holo may kte?
how is this compared to ferrum wandla? :)
Does the X30 support Tidal (wired not just via BT)?
Hope Gustard will make R30.
Exactly my thoughts!
I hope they make a X28 with only 2 chips , so we can lower the cost a bit . Like a SMSL SU.X but better
They are, coming out next year.
Is there a CD transport visible on the right side of your system? If so, is a review coming?
You are looking at the Rockna Wavedream NET which is: a Roon Server, a Roon Endpoint, a Digital Transport, a Music Server (4 TB of SSD storage), a CD Player and a CD Ripper. Such a review wasn't planned, but now that you've asked, I'll think about it. However, this isn't an affordable unit and I'm not sure my channel is ready for that, honestly.
@Soundnews Is it available in US? Could not find a US distributor for Rockna.
Hey , I have a question plz . If I use only headphones.. will that DAC be overkill for headphones?
Hello from Thailand. Another serious review. Can anyone tell me if the X30 Roon Ready, Roon Tested or no Roon?
I am in the market for a better DAC -currently using a SMSL M500 . $3000 is a significant investment , especially if I buy it will be without having auditioned . My question is , will the X30 be SIGNIFICANTLY better than I use at the moment? I EXPECT IT TO BLOW ME AWAY
Hi! I can't toy with your income and I cannot tell which DAC will (or will not) blow you away, but I can attest that in a well-thought system, X30 is a SIGNIFICATLY better unit in all regards compared to the SMSL M500 (first, second or third generation).
Incredible dac!!.
Ypu should review 1000 euro SMSL VMV 2R flagship dac with the ROHm dac chip.
Purchased based on this and another review. Gave it a week. Tried usb and Iiis connection. Worst of three Dacs I own. Purchased warmer speakers, no good. Replaced with my Pontius 2. Fortunately can return Amazon.
He hypes everything.
@@nolly485 Upon further testing my opinion has changed. Using a Matrix Audio X-SPDIF2 the phase needs to be inverted on both Dacs. Agree with Soundnews review. Pontus 2 is still a great Dac
need at least 100 hours of aging
X30 are a lot better then Venus 2
does it have a good synergy with 1266TC+Susvara Enleum23R?
Edit: do you think the AB1266 TC synergize very well with the Enleum? haven't bought it yet
For the price I would just step up to the Mola Mola Tambaqui and yes it is quite more yet stunning in sound and looks to me. Once you reach $9000 you migjt as well go a little higher.
Tambaqui is 3-4x the price though...
@@KXP70 Tambaqui is 50% more than this dac in the USA. I am simply saying if your spending 9,000.00 what is another 4,500.00 more for the Tambaqui.
@@patrickgeorge141 that's crazy. Are you sure you have the correct price for the X30? It's £2400 in the UK and the Tambaqui is £10,000
@@KXP70 I was going off of what was posted here, never looked it up lol. If that is the case I would buy the LAiV Harmony. I own the RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE and love it and have not even needed to adjust anything. The Tambaqui is my goal though and more than likely a used one for far less.
Yes we get your review. Every gear sounds great...every gear is a giant killer...every gear is so worth the ever increasing and expensive price.
Have you tried Ideon or Tambaqui?
Yes, my colleague Catalin - owns and uses the Tambaqui. That one is even smoother sounding (actually it's one of the smoothest DACs I have tried), but it doesn't offer the same resolution, nor the same impact and control as the X30 provides. Both are great and you should choose one according to your preference.
@@Soundnews Haven't head the X30, but when I compared the Tambaqui to the Wavedream Signature, the MMT was significantly more incisive across the bass, mids and highs yet analogue like smooth and PRAT off the charts, so it's all very dependent on the downstream chain and how that DAC output is handled.
Excellent detailed review Sandu the DacMan !
First TH-camr review and one of the very few I trust.
I think your review sealed my next Dac/streamer. Looks like it has all the qualities for an electronic music junky
Has anyone tried HQ player with the x-30?
So it's not true NOS, it just does zero order hold filter? Are there any true NOS ESS dacs?
When is the gustard R30 coming out. That's the question ❓
Early 2025
I hope it has Bluetooth.
can we expect a A30 and R30 ?
R30 in early 2025 (via Gustard)
I still consider my Topping D50 iii the GOAT at $230
nothing else than rubbish product,like all the chinese brands
@@I-tg4drya prejudice win
Shoutout to Baby Angus Young
I respect gustard for trying, the R26 was a real milestone but they are still not there yet unfortunately.
The R26 is ugly as sh*t. The X-30 is much nicer, OKish in midrange, questionable display. And costs 2X the R26! 😱
I’m wishing for a nextgen R26 in a decent housing, below 2K EUR.
And the huge question is - do they ever introduce a good software to make it a capable streamer, adding streaming services?? The hardware is there, software is missing.
Oh that display is OLED isn't it? Get ready for it to burn in in less than a year, happened to my ifi neo idsd. At least I can turn off the screen on that thing when it's not used to mitigate this problem.
I am interested in your review of $160 R2R DAC FIIO K11
3000 is too rich for me. R26 is still on the shortlist though
R26 is still great, hard to beat at that price.
$160 Fiio k11 r2r 💡
@@7in1 Let's wait for some reviews because there's no free lunch
Way way overpriced . Nice product , great review .
Discrete class A output stages?
BS Node N130 usb won't 😮
shake hands with xmos 2.0
Long narrow DAC's fit rack 👌
‘DARK’ review 😂😂😂😂
This is the GOAT if your time span is couple seconds (the time need it to plug it in ) . you don't have speakers nor equipment to do any audio reviews. give up
At least 100 hours of aging is required
RCA outputs are junk so are the parts in this dac.
I think my holo audio spring 3 kitsune sounds better
Far too expensive and nothing special, sound quality is practically the same as Topping D90III. 4 x 9039 is just too much of a good thing, with one 9039 chip per channel it would be the maximum. Power supply is just too cheap for the price. So just ridiculous...
Hahaha, for someone like you just buy E30, that enough. Why spend so much to buy D90III?
@@vanbuitran1746nah too expensive smsl su1 is the best performance per dollar.. 😂
And dude with main comment you get offended you lose... 😂
Have you tried X30?
Have you auditioned the X30 in a side-by-side comparison with the Topping D90III? Since you have such a strong opinion, it sounds like you must have, correct?
@@jonathanalexander2681 It was a question.
Since the DAC chipset is already a stereo mode chip, there is no increase in performance even if you use 2 or 4 separately. It's an illusion. And looking at the actual performance figures, there is no improvement.
The ES9039 PRO in the X30 is used in mono mode (1 channel) for the highest possible dynamic range and for the lowest possible channel crosstalk. You can check the ES9039PRO spec sheet to find out more about dynamic range and performance increase depending on its working modes. This info is available for everyone and it's not an illusion, but of course, you can believe in whatever you want to believe.
better than 100000+ dacs ?
Better than all DACs ever until the next DAC
Better than your crappy comments and poor sarcasm.
@@Flavius7 its a real question !! i'm always suspicious when someone calls a 3000, or even a 10 000 dollar DAC the best in the world, knowing that there are DAC's that cost 44 000 like the Ideon, and the MSB cost 115 000 dollars, you are the one being unpleasant here. i have Infinity IRS V's with Mark Levinson amps, and DAC it's a genuine question
@@nitraM321 Ideon audio dacs are in other league i supose.
@@igorkrajnc5915 yes i guess so, i have a VERY old DAC, the Mark Levinson #30.5 (it's over 20 years old) and would like to replace it, but i cannot afford to spend 30000+ anymore, not even close
Holo Cyan 2 probably wash the floor with this Gustard, because it already did just like that with Laiv Harmony.
Really?
Nah
I did compare x30 with holo spring 3 kte in my system. clearly x30 won. Matter of fact x30 is the best dac I ‘ve owned. previous dac I’ve owned ares, pontus, rme, r26, a26, spring 3 kte, topping d90, qutest and more.
@@dennisyi9038 Very interesting as I am hesitating for weeks between the X30 and the Spring 3 KTE for my main system. Can you elaborate on the differences please? Timbre, dynamics, soundstage, details, naturalness... Which input do you use, USB? Thank you very much!
У меня есть этот dac. Он ах
Не представляю что может быть лучше
Колонки зачёт
You can get the holo dac for this. No way.
Absolutely correct. 👍
Too expensive for me
How does it compare to the wandla? Which one do you prefer?
X30 in his top5 dac, wandla not there