1,749.00$
10 in stock
Introducing Qutest, a compact DAC that defies its size with exceptional performance. Built on the acclaimed DAC architecture of the award-winning Hugo 2, Qutest sets new standards in digital conversion
Immerse yourself in a revolutionary home audio experience with Qutest, our extraordinary DAC. Setting itself apart from similar models, Qutest is a pure DAC, devoid of headphone amplification or rechargeable batteries. It represents the latest evolution in our esteemed standalone DAC series, succeeding the highly praised 2Qute.
Unleash the transformative power of our cutting-edge digital technology across a wide range of connected devices. Qutest features galvanically isolated USB-B, optical, and coaxial digital inputs, instantly elevating the performance of your aging digital source components while bringing them up to date.
The Qutest chassis showcases a completely reimagined structure. Meticulously crafted from solid aircraft-grade aluminum billet, it possesses substantial mass and is precision-machined to perfection. The Qutest PCB is housed within a shallow cavity, providing superior protection and isolation from external vibrations compared to previous designs.
Qutest inherits the convenient user-selectable frequency-shaping filters and input selection controls from its predecessor, Hugo 2. These features, easily accessible through two strategically placed fascia-mounted spheres, offer exceptional flexibility and customization. Additionally, Qutest includes RCA analogue outputs for seamless integration with integrated amplifiers, preamps, and headphone amps. It also incorporates high-resolution dual-data digital inputs, ensuring compatibility with future Chord Electronics products.
An impressive new feature is the user-selectable output voltage, allowing you to choose between 1V, 2V, or 3V RMS outputs. This adaptability guarantees seamless connectivity with a wide range of partnering devices, catering to your individual preferences.
Elevate your audio setup with Qutest, the ultimate DAC that combines state-of-the-art technology, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled performance. Prepare to immerse yourself in a sound experience like never before.
Materials: Precision machined aluminium casing with polycarbonate buttons and glass viewing portal. Available only in Jett Black.
Device power supply: 5v 2amp Micro USB
Tap length filter: 49,152 – 10 element Pulse Array design
Connectivity (input): USB Type B (White): 44.1kHz to 768kHz – 16bit to 32bit
2x BNC Coax (Red): 44.1kHz – 384kHz – 16bit to 32bit
1x Dual data mode input (using both BNC coax inputs together): 44.1kHz to 768kHz – 16bit to 32bit
Optical (Green): 44.1kHz to 96kHz – 16bit to 24bit
Connectivity (output): 1x stereo pair of RCA (Left and Right)
PCM support: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 717.6kHz, and 768kHz. 16 – 32bit
DSD support: Native playback supported. DSD64 (Single) to DSD512 (Octa-DSD)
Variable output: Fixed, but selectable between 3v (blue), 2v (green), and 1v (red) via dual press of ‘Filter’ + ‘Input’ upon startup
Driver support: Driverless with Mac OS X and Linux, driver required for Windows OS
Digital designer: Rob Watts
Mechanical designer: John Franks
Country of manufacture: England
Chipset: Chord Electronics custom coded Xilinx Artix 7 (XC7A15T) FPGA
Tap-length: 49,152
Pulse array: 10 element pulse array design
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
Output stage: Class A
THD: <0.0001% 1kHz 3v RMS 300Ω
THD and noise at 3v RMS: 117dB at 1kHz 300ohms ‘A’ weighted (reference 2.5v)
Noise 2.6 uV ‘A’ weighted: No measurable noise floor modulation
Channel separation: 138dB at 1kHz 300Ω
Weight: 770g
Dimensions: 4.5cm (H) 16cm (W) 8.8cm (D)
Boxed Weight: 1500g
