Flagship Desktop DAC & MQA Decoder

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