Chord Hugo 2

The transportable DAC, headphone and pre amplifier

Hugo 2 can be used both at home and on the go, either with headphones or within a conventional audio system. Its line-level output and full-function remote control add real flexibility to full-size and desktop systems.

The device offers 4 digital inputs (optical, coaxial and HD USB) plus extended-range Bluetooth® wireless technology, with high-resolution file playback up to 768kHz and up to DSD512 (Octa DSD), via its HD USB input. Analogue outputs include 2x RCA, plus 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs.

A 4-function switch filter offers a useful degree of user-selectable frequency-shaping, bringing warm and soft or transparent and incisive presentations, giving additional flexibility and user control.

For headphone listening, Hugo 2 retains the popular digital cross-feed function of the original and offers 3 operation modes. The system duplicates the effect of listening to speakers and is based on advanced binaural audio research.

Hugo 2 features four spherical control buttons, which illuminate with colour-coding information and control power, input, filtering, plus the unit’s cross-feed functions. Battery playing time is around 6 hours + (depending on headphones) and 2 modes of automatic charging are included using the dedicated Micro USB charging port; an indicator shows charging and battery-charge status.