CHORD CHORDETTE 2QUTE

Second-hand. In excellent conditions. Free from visible signs of wear. Comes with original packaging, accessories, and user manual.

The Chord 2Qute is a compact and refined DAC, ideal for audio enthusiasts seeking to integrate cutting-edge digital conversion technology into their home audio system without relying on portable or hybrid solutions. Lacking a headphone amplifier, it focuses entirely on digital-to-analog conversion, employing the same Spartan 6 FPGA platform found in the acclaimed Chord Hugo, but in a more essential and accessible format, with a timeless and elegant industrial design.

This converter is the evolution of the Qute EX, maintaining its structure while significantly improving performance, with an impressively low harmonic distortion of just 0.0003%. The 2Qute delivers an outstanding sonic performance marked by detail, transparency, and tonal coherence: every nuance is clearly revealed, turning even casual listening into an immersive and lifelike experience—all with seamless integration into any two-channel setup.

It supports signals up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB and coaxial, while the optical input handles up to 24-bit/192kHz. DSD64 is supported on all inputs, and DSD128 via coaxial or USB, both through DoP protocol. A welcome addition is the physical switch on the rear panel, allowing users to easily toggle between USB, coaxial, and optical inputs without needing to manually unplug cables, as was necessary with previous models.

The USB port is Class 2 and galvanically isolated, a technical feature designed specifically for home use that significantly enhances signal integrity. The 2Qute is natively compatible with Apple and Android devices, while ASIO drivers for Windows are included on the USB stick provided in the box, which also contains the digital manual. From the first unboxing, the device impresses with its solid, tank-like build quality and its compact yet sophisticated design. Front-facing LEDs, visible through a small window, indicate the active input and sample rate, offering subtle yet effective visual feedback.

The Chord 2Qute is an extremely appealing choice for those seeking high-performance DAC capabilities without investing in higher-end models like the Hugo or Hugo TT. Built on the same engineering vision and employing identical technologies, it comes at a significantly more accessible price. It enhances the performance of any system with natural precision and ease, standing out as one of the best value-for-money DACs available today.

Technical specifications:

• Inputs: coaxial, optical, and USB with input selector
• Output: 3V RMS at 1kHz via RCA connectors
• Sample rates: 32-bit/384kHz via coaxial and USB; 24-bit/192kHz via optical
• USB specification: 32/384kHz, galvanically isolated, class compliant
• Dynamic range: -119dB A-weighted
• THD: 0.0003% at 3V RMS 1kHz; 0.0002% at 2V RMS 1kHz
• Crosstalk: 126dB at 1kHz
• Frequency response: ±0.1dB from 20Hz to 20kHz
• Power supply: 12V 0.5A
• Dimensions: 160 x 70 x 40 mm (width x height x depth)
• Weight: 0.4 kg