Gustard Audalytic DR80 / DR80N Discrete R2R Streamer DAC
The Gustard Audalytic DR80 and DR80N are desktop digital-to-analog converters built around proprietary 26-bit complementary discrete R-2R conversion and a dedicated native 1-bit DSD decoding path. Both models deliver high-resolution playback through multiple digital inputs, analog volume control, and simultaneous balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs. The DR80 is designed for use with external digital sources, while the DR80N adds an integrated CelWare network bridge for direct network streaming.
Proprietary 26-Bit Discrete R-2R Conversion
At the core of both models is a proprietary discrete R-2R resistor ladder that converts digital signals through a precision network of closely matched resistors. The 26-bit complementary architecture, managed by custom FPGA logic for clocking and digital shaping, produces accurate, low-distortion conversion with natural tonal balance and refined detail retrieval.
Native 1-Bit DSD Decoding
A dedicated 1-bit DSD conversion path processes native DSD files independently of the PCM stage. In DSD Direct mode, the incoming bitstream feeds a 1-bit switch-array decoder and completely bypasses PCM conversion. USB and the DR80N network bridge support native DSD up to DSD1024, while the I2S input accepts native DSD up to DSD2048.
Custom USB Interface Developed with Amanero
The USB audio interface is a custom solution co-developed by Gustard and Italy’s Amanero. Built around an ARM Cortex-M7 processor, it delivers the processing power and low latency required for high-rate playback. USB supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, native DSD1024, and DoP up to DSD512, with broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Linux systems.
CelWare Network Bridge on the DR80N
The DR80N integrates a CelWare network bridge co-developed with Cel Audio. It adds LAN connectivity and a microSD slot, supporting Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP, HQPlayer NAA, Qobuz Connect, and TME Connect. The optimized Linux kernel and hardware-priority scheduling minimize latency and jitter, while unused protocols can be disabled via web interface or the Bridge app on mobile devices.
CK-01 Femto-Grade Clock and Power Design
A CK-01 femto-grade clock module provides precise timing for the conversion stage. Segmented filtering and multiple regulated power rails isolate circuit sections to reduce interference. Both models include an internal low-noise power supply and accept an external 12–15V DC input for flexible powering options.
Analog Volume Control and Dual Outputs
An onboard analog volume-control IC offers fine level adjustment with a true bypass mode for systems that use external volume control. The low-impedance output stage drives a wide range of loads. Balanced XLR (4Vrms) and single-ended RCA (2Vrms) outputs operate simultaneously, providing flexible integration into balanced or unbalanced systems.
Versatile Digital Connectivity and Bluetooth
Digital inputs include USB-B, coaxial, optical, I2S (HDMI-style connector with four selectable pinout modes), and Bluetooth 5.1 via a Qualcomm QCC5125 chipset. Supported Bluetooth codecs include LDAC (up to 24-bit/96kHz), aptX HD, aptX, aptX LL, AAC, and SBC, enabling high-quality wireless playback from compatible devices.
Playback Options and User Interface
Three digital filters, NOS mode, and DSD Direct give listeners selectable sonic characteristics. Front-panel touch controls, an adjustable-brightness LCD with sleep mode, and an included IR remote provide convenient everyday operation. The anodized aluminum chassis is available in black or silver finishes.
About Audalytic
Audalytic is a high-fidelity audio brand under Gustard focused on discrete R-2R conversion technology and practical desktop components. The brand develops DACs and related products that combine proprietary resistor-ladder architectures, careful clocking and power design, and modern connectivity options for discerning listeners.
Technical Specifications
Models: DR80 (no network bridge), DR80N (with CelWare network bridge, LAN, and microSD)
Conversion: Discrete R-2R, 26-bit complementary; native 1-bit DSD
Digital Inputs: USB-B, coaxial, optical, I2S, Bluetooth 5.1
DR80N Additional: LAN, microSD slot
USB/Streamer PCM: 16–32-bit, 44.1–768kHz
USB/Streamer Native DSD: DSD64–DSD1024
USB/Streamer DoP: DSD64–DSD512
Coaxial/Optical PCM: 16–24-bit, 44.1–192kHz
I2S PCM: 16–32-bit, 44.1–1536kHz
I2S Native DSD: DSD64–DSD2048
Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD
Analog Outputs: Balanced XLR (4Vrms) and RCA (2Vrms), simultaneous
Output Impedance: 100Ω (XLR and RCA)
Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz ±0.2dB (OS mode)
Dynamic Range: >114dB
SNR: >115dB
Channel Crosstalk: <–134dB at 1kHz
THD+N: ≤0.003% at 1kHz
Power: AC 100–240V 50/60Hz; external DC 12–15V ≥2A
Power Consumption: <12W
Dimensions: 300 × 230 × 58mm (excluding protrusions)
Net Weight: 2.8kg
Finishes: Black or Silver
Q&A
What is the difference between the DR80 and DR80N?
The DR80 is a discrete R-2R DAC for use with external digital sources. The DR80N adds an integrated CelWare network bridge with LAN and microSD support for direct network streaming via Roon Bridge, AirPlay, UPnP, HQPlayer NAA, Qobuz Connect, and TME Connect.
What conversion technology does the DR80 / DR80N use?
It employs proprietary 26-bit complementary discrete R-2R modules for PCM and a dedicated native 1-bit path for DSD, with DSD Direct mode available.
What is the maximum resolution supported?
USB and the DR80N streamer support PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD1024. The I2S input supports native DSD up to DSD2048.
Does it support Bluetooth high-resolution codecs?
Yes. Bluetooth 5.1 with Qualcomm QCC5125 supports LDAC (up to 24-bit/96kHz), aptX HD, aptX, aptX LL, AAC, and SBC.
Can the XLR and RCA outputs be used at the same time?
Yes. Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs operate simultaneously, with fixed levels of 4Vrms and 2Vrms respectively when volume is fixed.
