Chord ElECtroniCs 2QutE and hugo tt

Chord Electronics has released its 2Qute DAC and Hugo TT DAC/ headphone amplifier. The 2Qute DAC combines the Qute EX DAC with the latest Hugo DAC technologies. It employs the diminutive, solidly-built chassis of the Chordette while adopting the company’s high-performance Spartan 6 FPGA DAC technology. Distortion levels are quoted as being less than 0.0003 per cent.

The 2Qute offers audio resolution of up to 32-bit/384kHz via coaxial and USB inputs, and 24-bit/192kHz via optical. DSD64 is available on all inputs and DSD128 is supported via coaxial or USB (all via DoP). Digital inputs are now user-switchable and the USB input is ‘driverless’ on Apple and Android devices and includes drivers for Windows devices (ASIO included). ‘ Rob Watts completely redesigned the Qute’s circuit board in order for it to deliver Hugo performance levels without the mobile features, such as the volume control and batteries,’ said John Franks, Chord Electronics’ Founder and Owner. ‘ Because the re-design was so extensive, we felt the Qute had to have a MkII designation, but 2Qute sounded undeniably better than Quote MkII.’

The Hugo TT is a larger, desktop version of the Hugo and now offers additional connectivity by way of a USB-B input, XLR outputs, dual 6.5mm headphone outputs, remote control, an alphanumeric LED display with input/sample rate data display, plus performance improvements resulting from ‘super capacitors’ in the larger power supply. Also improved over the original Hugo is a high-quality asynchronous B-type USB input which covers both the SD and HD USB input stream while BNC coaxial and optical (TOSLink) inputs allow for extensive device connectivity. Hugo TT supports up to 32-bit/384kHz audio via coax and USB, and 24-bit/192kHz over optical, plus DSD64 on all inputs and DSD128 via coax or USB (all via DoP). For further information, please contact Radiance AudioVisual on (02) 9659 1117 or visit www.radianceav.com.au