AOSHIDA Gustard U18 USB Digital Interface Instruction Manual

Introducción

The Gustard U18 is a high-performance USB Digital Interface designed to enhance your audio system. It functions as a ground isolation USB bridge and a hi-end audio interface, supporting high-resolution audio formats such as DSD512 and PCM768K. Featuring advanced components like the XMOS XU216 processor, K2 clock synthesizer, and AS338 audio oscillators, the U18 provides multiple output interfaces including IIS, AES, Optical, Coaxial, and Clock outputs for versatile connectivity with various audio devices.

Notas de seguridad

• Install this unit in a well-ventilated, cool, dry, clean place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, vibration, dust, moisture, or cold.
• Use solo el vol especificadotage for this unit. Using this unit with a higher voltage than specified is dangerous and may cause fire, damage to this unit, or personal injury. The manufacturer is not responsible for any damage resulting from the use of this unit with an incorrect voltage.
• Do not attempt to modify or repair this unit yourself. Contact the salesperson or customer service when any service is needed. The cabinet should never be opened for any reason.
• When not planning to use this unit for long periods (e.g., during vacation), disconnect the power cable from the AC wall outlet.

Características

• XMOS XU216 Processor: Equipped with 16 cores for rich resources and a smooth audio experience, supporting DSD512 and PCM768K.
• Independent CPLD for Signal Shaping: The isolated IIS signal is reshaped to remove jitter introduced by the isolator.
• Complete Grounding Isolation: Achieved by a 200 Mbps isolator to eliminate all interference from your PC.
• 2nd Generation K2 Clock Synthesizer: Features ultra-low noise and supports external OCXO. K2 can generate audio-specific frequencies using a 10MHz clock source with extremely low loss.
• Accusilicon AS338 Hi-End Audio Oscillators: Two AS338 oscillators ensure strict requirements, packaged with nitrogen gas and 100% checked by phase noise analyzer. Jitter is as low as 38fs, improving bass quality and harmony.
• LT3045 Linear Regulator: The clock power supply is based on LT3045, a high-performance low dropout linear regulator with an RMS Noise of only 0.8µVRMS (10Hz to 100KHz).
• Configurable IIS Pinout: Offers 4 modes for compatibility with various DACs.
• Interfaces enriquecidas: Includes USB, IIS-H, AES, Coaxial, Optical, and Clock inputs/outputs.

Contenido del paquete

Upon unboxing your Gustard U18, please verify that all the following items are included:

• Gustard U18 USB Digital Interface Unit
• Cable USB
• Cable de alimentación de CA
• Manual de usuario
• Tarjeta de garantía

Imagen: A visual representation of the Gustard U18 unit and its included accessories, such as cables and documentation.

Producto terminadoview

Panel frontal

Imagen: Frente view of the Gustard U18, showing the display screen, REF button, and IIS button.

• Pantalla de visualización: Muestra el estado y la configuración actuales.
• Botón REF: Used for input selection or other reference functions.
• IIS Button: Used for IIS pinout configuration or DSD flag settings.

Panel trasero

Imagen: Trasero view of the Gustard U18, highlighting all input and output ports.

• Salida óptica: Digital audio output via optical fiber.
• Salida AES: Professional digital audio output via XLR connector.
• COAX Output: Digital audio output via coaxial cable.
• IIS Output: Digital audio output via HDMI connector (not standard HDMI video).
• WCK Output: Word Clock output.
• 10M CLK Input: Input for external 10MHz clock.
• Entrada USB: USB Type-B female connector for connecting to a computer or other USB audio source.
• Volumentage Switching (110/220V): Switch to select appropriate input voltage.
• Entrada de energía: Conector de alimentación de CA.
• Interruptor de alimentación: Interruptor principal de encendido y apagado.
• FUSIBLE: Portafusibles para protección de energía.

Configuración

Follow these steps to set up your Gustard U18:

1. Conexión de energía: Asegúrese del volumentage switch on the rear panel is set to the correct local voltage (110V or 220V). Connect the supplied AC power cable to the unit's power input and then to a wall outlet.
2. USB Source Connection: Connect your audio source (e.g., PC, Android device, iOS device, PS5, Nintendo Switch) to the Entrada USB on the rear panel using the provided USB cable.
3. Conexión de salida de audio: Connect the Gustard U18 to your DAC or amplifier using one of the available digital outputs: Salida IIS (via HDMI cable, ensure your DAC supports IIS over HDMI), Salida AES, Salida COAXIAL, o Salida óptica. Choose the output that best suits your receiving device.
4. Reloj externo (opcional): If you are using an external 10MHz clock, connect it to the 10M CLK Input.
5. Encendido: Dar la vuelta a la Interruptor de encendido on the rear panel to the 'ON' position. The front display screen will illuminate.
6. Instalación del controlador (para PC): For Windows operating systems, you may need to install specific drivers. Refer to the official Gustard website for the latest drivers. macOS and Linux typically do not require additional drivers.

Instrucciones de funcionamiento

The Gustard U18 features intuitive controls for seamless operation:

• Selección de entrada: Presione el Botón REF on the front panel to cycle through the available digital inputs (USB, Optical, Coaxial, 10M CLK). The selected input will be indicated on the display screen.
• IIS Pinout Configuration: The IIS output has 4 configurable modes. Press the Botón IIS to change the pinout mode. The current mode will be displayed. Please confirm your DAC's pinout before changing this option. Only these 4 modes are supported.
• DSD Flag Setting: Mantenga pulsado el Botón IIS to change the DSD Flag setting. This is important for proper DSD signal recognition by your DAC.
• Información de la pantalla: The front display screen provides real-time information about the active input, sampling rate, and DSD status.

Presupuesto

Solución de problemas

If you encounter issues with your Gustard U18, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Sin energía: Ensure the AC power cable is securely connected to both the unit and the wall outlet. Check the power switch position and the fuse. Verify the voltagEl interruptor está configurado correctamente.
• Sin salida de sonido:
  • Verify the correct input is selected on the U18 using the REF button.
  • Check all audio cables (USB, IIS, AES, Coaxial, Optical) for secure connections.
  • Ensure your DAC/amplifier is powered on and the correct input is selected on that device.
  • If using IIS output, confirm the IIS pinout mode on the U18 matches your DAC's requirements.
  • For PC connections, ensure the correct audio driver is installed and selected as the output device in your operating system's sound settings.
• Intermittent Audio/Signal Drops:
  • Check USB cable quality and connection. Try a different USB port or cable.
  • Ensure your computer's USB port is providing stable power.
  • Minimize other USB devices connected to the same hub or computer.
  • If using an external clock, ensure it is stable and properly connected.
• Sonido distorsionado:
  • Verifique que el sampling rate and bit depth settings on your source device match the capabilities of the U18 and your DAC.
  • Compruebe si hay conexiones de cables sueltas.

If the problem persists after trying these steps, please contact AOSHIDA customer support for further assistance.

Mantenimiento

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Gustard U18, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Limpieza: Utilice un paño suave y seco para limpiar el exterior de la unidad. Evite el uso de limpiadores abrasivos, disolventes o aerosoles químicos, ya que pueden dañar el acabado.
• Ventilación: Ensure the unit has adequate ventilation. Do not block the ventilation holes or place the unit in an enclosed space that restricts airflow.
• Almacenamiento: When not in use for extended periods, store the unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Disconnect the power cable.
• Conexiones de cable: Revise periódicamente todas las conexiones de cables para asegurarse de que estén seguras y libres de daños.

Garantía y soporte

AOSHIDA provides comprehensive support for its products, including the Gustard U18 USB Digital Interface.

• Periodo de garantía: The product comes with a one-year free repair period, which may be extended depending on the specific brand and product. Please refer to your warranty card for detailed terms and conditions.
• Política de devoluciones: Se ofrece una política de devolución de 30 días.
• Servicio al cliente: 24-hour online service is available for any questions or assistance you may need.
• Información del contacto: For consulting and after-sales service, please contact our after-sales team via email at service@aoshida-audio.com.