Chord Electronics Hugo 2 – Flagship Portable DAC & Headphone Amplifier
The Hugo 2 by Chord Electronics elevates portable audio with its precision-engineered FPGA DAC and powerful headphone amplification. Crafted in an aircraft‑grade aluminum chassis, it supports PCM up to 768 kHz, native DSD512, features four vivid filter options, digital crossfeed, and wireless convenience via aptX Bluetooth—ideal for audiophiles on the move or desktop.
Key Features
- Custom Xilinx Artix 7 FPGA with 49,152‑tap filter: Chord’s signature WTA filter ensures ultra-realistic audio reproduction
- Class‑A headphone amp: Delivers up to 1050 mW into 8 Ω with impressively low output impedance (0.025 Ω)
- Versatile inputs: Supports USB‑HD (768 kHz/DSD512), coaxial, optical, and aptX Bluetooth connectivity
- Color LED spheres: Interactive buttons for input, filter, crossfeed, and power with sampling rate visual feedback
- 7‑hour battery life + desktop mode: Internal Li-ion battery supports extended use, auto-switches to external power after 2 hrs
- Line‑level output & remote: Full-function remote control and ribbon RCA output for two-channel systems
Customer Benefits
The Hugo 2 blends portability with uncompromised performance. Whether paired with high-end headphones or a stereo system, it offers flexible connectivity, rich sonic detail, and a polished user experience—travel-friendly or desktop-ready.
Quick Specs
- Digital Formats: PCM up to 768 kHz, DSD64–512 (DoP)
- Headphone Outputs: 6.35 mm & 3.5 mm, ≤ 1050 mW into 8 Ω
- Battery: Dual 2600 mAh Li‑ion cells (~7 hr playback)
- Dimensions: 130 × 100 × 21 mm
- Weight: 390–450 g
- Controls: 4 colored LED spheres + volume roller
What’s in the Box
- Hugo 2 DAC/headphone amp
- IR remote control
- USB‑A to micro‑USB charging cable
- Optical cable
- Micro‑USB OTG cable
- 2× AAA batteries for remote
- Drawstring pouch
Use Cases / Ideal For
Ideal for discerning listeners who want studio-grade sound in a portable format. Perfect for travel, desktop setups, or as a critical listening source with headphones or powered speakers.
Compatibility
Plug-and-play with Windows (driver required), macOS, Linux. Supports most mobile devices over OTG. Bluetooth input works with aptX-enabled devices. Line-level RCA output enables use with full-range amplification systems.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- World-class DAC and headphone power in a compact chassis
- Wide input variety (USB/optical/coax/Bluetooth)
- Flexible crossfeed and filter options
- Exceptional battery life with desktop fallback mode
⚠️ Cons:
- No native streaming or Wi‑Fi
- Spherical controls may feel unconventional to some
- Premium price reflects flagship performance
The Chord Hugo 2 remains a benchmark for portable high-end audio. With its advanced FPGA DAC, robust amplification, and thoughtful design, it offers an unbeatable combination of portability and performance. Hear the difference at Soundium.
