Gustard S16

Gustard S16 Digital Turntable User Manual

Lossless Hifi FPGA Broadcast Player (PCM768, DSD512)

1. Product Overview

The Gustard S16 is a high-fidelity network digital player designed for exceptional sound quality. It features a dual-system design with a G-Pipeline audio playback system based on a special FPGA architecture and a G-Android depth system for control and interconnection. The S16 supports a wide range of audio formats and offers versatile connectivity options.

Front view of the Gustard S16 Digital Turntable
Front view of the Gustard S16 Digital Turntable

Key Features:

  • G-Pipeline audio playback system with FPGA architecture for pure sound.
  • G-Android depth system for intuitive operation, control, and interconnection.
  • Femtosecond K2 synthesizer with support for external 10M constant temperature clock.
  • 4-inch high-definition touch screen with fine resolution and minimal touch delay.
  • 50W high-quality audio special ring transformer.
  • Supports PCM up to 768KHz and DSD up to DSD512.
  • Dedicated Android APP for control (iOS not supported).
  • Supports DLNA push, NetEase cloud, and QQ Music.
  • Supports NAS reading (for non-high code files), U disk, and SD card (PCM768K, DSD512).
  • Coaxial, AES, and Optical fiber outputs support DoP.
  • IIS (HDMI format) supports DSD source code output and multi-line sequence adjustment.
Icons representing key features of the Gustard S16
Key features of the Gustard S16, including FPGA, CPU, K2, 10m clock, APP, 4" Touch screen, 50W Ring transformer, PCM 768K, DSD DSD512, DLNA push, Netease cloud music, Qq music, NAS USB SD, IIS-H.

2. Setup Guide

2.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the S16 unit and all accessories from the packaging. Inspect for any signs of damage. Keep the original packaging for future transport or service needs.

2.2 Rear Panel Connections

The rear panel of the S16 provides various input and output interfaces for connecting to your audio system.

Detailed diagram of the Gustard S16 rear panel interfaces
Rear panel interfaces: Optical fiber output, AES, Coaxial output, IIS-H output, Clock output, Clock input, USB input, Network cable input, Power input, Fuse, Bluetooth antenna, 220V/110V voltage switching, and Power switch.
  • Optical Fiber Output (Opt): Connect to a DAC or amplifier with an optical input.
  • AES Output: Connect to a DAC or amplifier with an AES/EBU input.
  • Coaxial Output (COAX Output): Connect to a DAC or amplifier with a coaxial input.
  • IIS-H Output: Connect to a compatible DAC using an HDMI cable for IIS signal transmission.
  • Clock Output (WCK): For synchronization with other audio devices.
  • Clock Input (10M CLK Input): Connect an external 10M constant temperature clock for enhanced timing precision.
  • USB Input (USB/LAN): Connect USB storage devices (e.g., U disk, external hard drive). Note: External hard drives may require an external power supply.
  • Network Cable Input (USB/LAN): Connect an Ethernet cable for network access (NAS, UPNP/DLNA, APP control).
  • Power Input: Connect the power cable.
  • Fuse: Replace if necessary (refer to specifications for type).
  • Bluetooth Antenna: For APP connection via Bluetooth.
  • 220V/110V Voltage Switching: Ensure the correct voltage is selected for your region before powering on.
  • Power Switch: To turn the unit on/off.

2.3 Power Connection

  1. Verify the 220V/110V voltage switch on the rear panel is set to match your local power supply.
  2. Connect the provided power cable to the Power Input on the S16 and then to a wall outlet.

2.4 Network and Storage Setup

  • LAN Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable to the Network Cable Input for network streaming and control via the dedicated APP.
  • Bluetooth Connection: Ensure the Bluetooth antenna is attached. Bluetooth is primarily used for APP control.
  • SD Card: Insert an SD card (up to 512GB tested, theoretical 2TB) into the SD slot. Supported formats: FAT32/exFAT/NTFS.
  • USB Storage: Connect USB drives (U disk, mobile hard disk) to the USB inputs. Mobile hard disks may require an external power supply.

2.5 External Clock Connection

For optimal performance, the S16 can be connected to an external 10M constant temperature clock. Connect the external clock to the '10M CLK Input' on the rear panel.

Gustard S16 connected to an external 10m clock
The S16 can be connected to an external 10m clock for improved audio precision.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Power On/Off

Flip the Power Switch on the rear panel to turn the S16 on or off.

3.2 User Interface

The S16 features a 4-inch HD touch screen for direct control and navigation. The touch operation is designed for minimal delay.

Hand interacting with the 4-inch HD touch screen of the Gustard S16
The 4-inch HD touch screen provides a responsive interface for controlling the S16.

3.3 APP Control

A dedicated APP is available for Android devices to control the S16. This APP allows for comprehensive management of playback, settings, and file browsing. Connect via LAN or Bluetooth.

Gustard S16 with a smartphone displaying the control app
Control the S16 conveniently using the dedicated Android application.

3.4 Audio Playback

The S16 supports various playback modes:

  • Local Storage: Play files directly from an inserted SD card or connected USB storage device.
  • Network Attached Storage (NAS): Access music files stored on your network via Samba. Note: NAS reading does not support high-code files.
  • UPNP/DLNA: Stream audio from compatible devices on your network.
  • Streaming Services: Supports DLNA push, NetEase cloud, and QQ Music.

3.5 IIS Multi-line Sequence Adjustment

The IIS output (HDMI format) offers adjustable multi-line sequences with four built-in options, allowing for compatibility with various external DACs and devices.

System connection diagram for Gustard S16
Example system connection diagram showing the S16 with an external clock, decoder, and headphones.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

To maintain the appearance and performance of your S16, regularly wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish. Ensure the unit is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

4.2 Storage

When not in use for extended periods, store the S16 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If possible, use the original packaging for protection.

5. Troubleshooting

  • No Sound Output: Check all cable connections (power, audio outputs). Ensure the correct input is selected on your connected DAC/amplifier. Verify the S16 is powered on and playing audio.
  • Files Not Playing: Ensure the audio format is supported (refer to Specifications). Check if the storage device (SD card, USB drive) is properly formatted (FAT32/exFAT/NTFS). If using NAS, ensure the files are not 'high-code' as these are not supported.
  • External Hard Drive Not Detected: If using a mobile hard disk, ensure it has an external power supply connected, as the S16's USB ports may not provide sufficient power for all drives.
  • APP Connection Issues: Ensure both the S16 and your Android device are connected to the same network (for LAN control) or that Bluetooth is enabled and paired.
  • DTS DST Format Not Supported: The S16 does not support DTS DST audio formats. Attempting to play these files will result in no sound or an error message.

6. Specifications

FeatureDetail
ModelS16
Dimensions (Machine)Width 220mm * Height 80mm (including machine leg height 90mm) * Depth 200mm (excluding protruding parts)
Weight (Gross)3.3 KG
Display4-inch HD Touch Screen
Power Supply50W High Quality Audio Special Ring Transformer, 220V/110V switchable
Digital CoreG-Pipeline (FPGA), G-Android (Multi-core CPU)
Clock SystemFemtosecond K2 Synthesizer, supports external 10M constant temperature clock
Supported APPDedicated Android APP (iOS not supported)
Supported Audio Formats:
WAVStereo 44.1KHz-768KHz, 16bit-32bit
APEStereo 44.1KHz-192KHz, 16Bit-24Bit
FLACStereo 44.1KHz-384KHz, 16Bit-24Bit
AIFFStereo 44.1KHz-768KHz, 16bit-32bit
ALACStereo 44.1KHz-192KHz, 16Bit-24Bit
AACStereo LC/LD/HE/HEv2 profile
MP3Stereo 320Kbps, CBR and VBR
WMASupports WMA9, WMA10 Pro, and WMA Lossless
CUESupports automatic rail splitting (WAV, APE, FLAC), Unicode, UTF-8, ANSI encoding
DSDSupports DFF, DSF, and SACD ISO (non-compression), DSD64-DSD512
Input Interfaces:
SD CardMax theoretical 2TB, tested 512GB. Supports FAT32/exFAT/NTFS.
USB3x USB ports. Supports USB1.0, USB2.0, compatible with USB3.0. Theoretical support 4TB (external HDD may require external power).
LAN100Mbps full duplex. Supports network NAS (Samba), UPNP/DLNA, and APP connection.
BluetoothSupports APP connection only.
Output Interfaces:
IIS (HDMI format)PCM44.1KHz-768KHz, 16Bit-32Bit / DSD64-DSD512
AES/CoaxialPCM44.1KHz-384KHz, 16Bit-24Bit / DSD64-DSD128 (DoP mode)
Optical FiberPCM44.1KHz-192KHz, 16Bit-24Bit / DSD64 (DoP mode)
Table of supported audio formats and equipment size for Gustard S16
Supported audio formats and physical dimensions of the S16.

7. User Tips

  • Seamless Control: The optimized G-Android system and touch control make the S16 very simple and smooth to operate, even if you are new to networked digital media players.
  • App Convenience: Utilize the dedicated Android app for comprehensive remote control and easy navigation of your music library. Remember, the app is currently only available for Android devices.
  • External Clock for Precision: For the most accurate and stable sound, consider connecting an external 10M constant temperature clock to leverage the S16's high-precision low-shake synthesis technology.
  • DAC Compatibility: The S16 offers various output options (IIS, AES, Coaxial, Optical) and adjustable IIS multi-line sequences to ensure broad compatibility with different DACs. If you have a specific DAC like a Rockna Wavelight, experiment with the IIS settings to find the optimal configuration.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your authorized Gustard dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Related Documents - S16

PreviewGustard A26 High Performance Audio DAC User Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the Gustard A26 High Performance Audio DAC, covering features, operation, specifications, and warranty information. Learn about MQA, input/output options, and menu settings.
PreviewGUSTARD U26 USB Digital Interface User Manual
This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for the GUSTARD U26 USB Digital Interface, covering its features, setup, driver installation, software configuration with Foobar2000, technical specifications, and after-sales service.
PreviewGUSTARD X30 High Performance Audio DAC User Manual
Comprehensive user manual for the GUSTARD X30 High Performance Audio DAC, detailing its features, operation, settings, specifications, and warranty information.
PreviewGUSTARD X26pro High-Performance Audio DAC User Manual
The GUSTARD X26pro User Manual provides comprehensive instructions for operating the high-performance audio DAC, including MQA technology, front and rear panel controls, display and menu settings, IR remote control, Windows driver installation, and detailed DSD playback configuration and troubleshooting with foobar2000. It also covers product specifications and warranty information.
PreviewGUSTARD N18 & N18PRO HIFI Switch - User Manual & Specifications
Comprehensive user manual and technical specifications for the GUSTARD N18 and N18PRO HIFI switches. Learn about features, connections, parameters, and after-sales service.
PreviewAUDALYTIC HP70 Fully Balanced Headphone Amplifier User Manual | GUSTARD
User manual for the AUDALYTIC HP70 Fully Balanced Headphone Amplifier by GUSTARD. Covers package contents, front/rear panel details, menu settings, remote control operation, detailed specifications, power output charts, and warranty information.