The X18 is a high-end desktop DAC designed for listeners who want transparent, detailed digital-to-analog conversion with advanced features. Featuring the ESS ES9038PRO DAC, XMOS USB processor, and ultra-low-jitter clocking, it delivers native hi-res playback, full MQA decoding, and even Bluetooth streaming with LDAC and aptX HD support. With balanced XLR and RCA outputs, a clear OLED display, and a remote, it integrates seamlessly into both single-ended and balanced setups.
ESA‑Level Conversion with ESS ES9038PRO
The central feature is the ESS Sabre ES9038PRO, a premium DAC chip renowned for low distortion and wide dynamic range. Paired with independent AOP OPA1612 I/V converters and precision resistors, the result is exceptional clarity and channel separation.
Precision USB Handling with XMOS XU216
The 16‑core XMOS XU216 USB interface decodes PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz and native DSD512 via USB or I²S. This dedicated processor ensures stable, jitter‑free handling of high‑resolution streams.
CPLD-Based Clocking & Jitter Control
An onboard Altera CPLD manages clock distribution, PLL, DoP decoding, and digital filtering. Alongside dual Accusilicon femtosecond crystals, it minimizes jitter—offering some of the lowest THD+N and highest SINAD performance measured.
MQA & High‑Res Bluetooth Connectivity
Fully certified for MQA decoding over USB, AES, coax, optical, and I²S inputs. Bluetooth 5.0 support includes LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, SBC, and AAC, letting you stream high-resolution content wirelessly.
Balanced, Versatile Outputs & Intuitive Interface
Offering both XLR (5 V RMS) and RCA (2.5 V RMS) outputs, the X18 integrates smoothly into balanced or single‑ended setups. A front OLED display with remote and volume knob allows precise control and up to seven PCM & four DSD filter options .
Product highlights
ES9038PRO flagship DAC with discrete AOP I/V stage
XMOS XU216 USB receiver: PCM768 / native DSD512
Altera CPLD + dual Accusilicon clocks for ultra‑low jitter
Full MQA decoding via multiple digital inputs
Bluetooth 5.0: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC
I²S input via HDMI, USB-B, AES, coax, optical
Analog outputs: XLR (5 V RMS), RCA (2.5 V RMS)
Manageable via OLED, remote, or front volume knob
Multiple PCM & DSD digital filters, NOS mode
Voltage selectable 115/230 VAC; AC inlet
Specs
Digital Inputs: USB‑B, I²S‑HDMI, AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth 5.0
Sampling Rates: PCM up to 32‑bit/768 kHz; DSD512 native; MQA
DAC Chip: ESS ES9038PRO
USB Processor: XMOS XU216, 16‑core
Clocking: Dual Accusilicon A5318-B femto clocks, Altera CPLD
Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR 5 V; SE RCA 2.5 V
Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, aptX HD/LL, aptX, AAC, SBC
Digital Filters: 7× PCM, 4× DSD; NOS mode
Display & Control: OLED screen, front knob, remote
Frequency Response: 20 Hz–20 kHz ±0.08 dB
Power: 115/230 VAC switchable
Dimensions: 220 × 170 × 50 mm
Weight: 2.5 kg w/ packaging
What’s included
Gustard X18 DAC unit
IEC power cable
USB‑B cable
IR remote control
Bluetooth antenna
User manual
Featured reviews
"As transparent and detailed as some of the best DACs I've ever heard." -SoundNews
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