Chord release two DACs: the 2Qute and the Hugo TT

Two new Chord DACs: the 2Qute and the Hugo TT.

Essentially a Hugo in a Chordette chassis, 2Qute contains the same Spartan 6 FPGA and supports up to 32bit/384kHz audio via COAX and USB and 24bit/192kHz over optical. DSD64 is supported on all inputs and DSD128 is supported via coax or USB (all via DoP). The new DAC also gains a switch to move between coax, optical and USB digital inputs. The device features a Class 2 USB input which, because of the 2Qute’s home-system orientation compared to Hugo’s more mobile aspirations, has been galvanically isolated. Price is £995

The new larger desktop-orientated device offers wider connectivity including a USB-B input, XLR outputs and two 6.35mm headphone outputs. Hugo TT gains a new larger chassis, remote control, an alphanumeric LED display with input/sample rate data and the addition of supercapacitors. It can handle up to 32bit/384kHz audio via coax and USB and 24bit/192kHz over optical plus DSD64 on all inputs and DSD128 via COAX or USB (all via DoP). It now benefits from an asynchronous B-type USB connection for both the SD and HD USB input, a new BNC coaxial and optical (TOSLink).

The Hugo TT also has A2DP Bluetooth capability and uses a custom-made module with the aptX codec to feed a digital signal directly into the DAC circuitry while retaining the same Spartan 6 FPGA. Being a home-orientated device, the TT has been designed to run continuously from the supplied charger, however Chord’s engineers have also improved the battery and added Supercap energy storage, extending the battery life as well as improving performance. Price is £2,995.

For more information call 01622 721444 or click on www.chordelectronics.co.uk