Chord Electronics
Chord Electronics Qutest DAC
Best standalone converter for audiophiles seeking precise, customizable high-fidelity sound.
The Chord Electronics Qutest is a standalone DAC that offers class-leading digital conversion, building upon the architecture of the acclaimed Hugo 2. It features advanced FPGA and WTA filters for improved timing accuracy, noise reduction, and dynamic range, with a significantly increased tap length compared to its predecessor. The Qutest includes a new filter switch for user-adjustable frequency shaping, four levels of filtering, and galvanically isolated USB-B, optical, and dual coaxial digital inputs. Its robust chassis is precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum, providing enhanced protection and isolation. Control spheres illuminate to indicate sample frequency and filter settings, with user-adjustable brightness. A user-selectable output voltage (1, 2, or 3V RMS) offers flexible connectivity.
$1625.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 489
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-63%
Below average
Materials
Precision machined aluminium casing with polycarbonate buttons and glass viewing portal
/ Precision machined aluminium casing with polycarbonate buttons and glass viewing portal
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute transparency and microscopic musical detail
- Listeners prioritizing natural, coherent soundstages and advanced digital processing
- Minimalists needing premium, space-saving hardware for high-end audio systems
Who should skip it
- Purists wanting an out-of-the-box, high-performance power solution
- Headphone users looking for an all-in-one desktop amplification solution
- Users preferring intuitive, text-based displays over abstract color-coded interfaces
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Accuracy
FPGA architecture delivers industry-leading timing and exceptional sonic transparency.
Build Integrity
Solid aircraft-grade aluminum chassis provides superior vibration isolation and durability.
Connectivity Versatility
Multiple digital inputs handle high-resolution files with impressive flexibility.
Sound Shaping
Advanced WTA filters offer nuanced control over your preferred audio profile.
System Integration
Selectable output voltages ensure seamless matching with various amplifier setups.
User Interface
Illuminated spheres look striking but require learning the color-coded system.
Key Specs
Materials
Precision machined aluminium casing with polycarbonate buttons and glass viewing portal
Power Supply
5v 2amp Micro USB
Inputs
USB Type B (White): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit
Inputs
2x BNC Coax (Red): 44.1kHz – 768kHz – 16bit – 32bit
Inputs
Optical (Green): 44.1kHz – 192kHz – 16bit – 24bit
Outputs
1x stereo pair of RCA (Left and Right)
PCM support
44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 358.8kHz, 384kHz, 717.6kHz, and 768kHz
DSD support
Native playback supported. DSD64 (Single) to DSD512 (Octa-DSD)
Features
- Class-leading digital conversion based on Hugo 2 architecture
- Advanced FPGA and WTA filters for superior sonic performance
- User-selectable filters for personalized sound shaping
- Multiple digital inputs for versatile connectivity
- Robust, precision-machined aluminum chassis for durability and isolation
- Illuminated control spheres provide visual feedback on settings
- User-selectable output voltage for flexible integration
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Chord Qutest DAC for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as remarkably clear, detailed, and dynamic. Many highlight its ability to transform their listening experience, revealing new layers in familiar music. The distinctive, robust design and premium build materials also receive high marks, contributing to a sense of luxury and durability. While a significant investment, users frequently perceive outstanding value, believing its audio performance rivals or surpasses much more expensive alternatives, making it a highly recommended component for serious audiophiles.
Know before you buy
If you are using Mac OS X or Linux, the Qutest is driverless and will work immediately upon connection. For Windows users, you will need to download and install the dedicated Chord Electronics driver to ensure proper functionality.
You can toggle between 1V, 2V, and 3V RMS by pressing the 'Filter' and 'Input' buttons simultaneously during startup. The illuminated control spheres will change color to indicate your current selection: red for 1V, green for 2V, and blue for 3V.
Yes, the Qutest is highly versatile and supports PCM files up to 768kHz and native DSD playback up to DSD512. It features USB-B, optical, and dual coaxial inputs to accommodate a wide range of digital transports and streamers.
The four filter settings allow you to subtly adjust the frequency shaping of the audio signal to suit your personal listening preferences. These filters utilize Chord’s proprietary WTA technology to refine timing accuracy and noise reduction, offering different sonic textures for your music.
No, the Qutest is a standalone desktop DAC and does not contain an internal battery. It is powered via a 5V Micro USB connection, which should be connected to a stable power source for optimal performance.
The illuminated control spheres on the top of the unit change color based on the incoming sample frequency. You can refer to the included user manual to see the specific color-coded chart for each supported sample rate.
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$1625