MEASURED PERFORMANCE

Rohde & Schwarz UPV audio analyser, used for measurements.

Frequency response measured flat to 36kHz with 192kHz sample rate digital via electrical S/PDIF input (BNC), our analysis shows, with a slow roll off in output to the 96kHz upper limit. The optical S/PDIF input (TOSLINK) worked to 192kHz too, with a good optical cable. So the Chord well exploits high sample rate digital.
    Distortion at full output (3V) measured a very low 0.0003% and at -60dB a low 0.02% our analysis shows, with 24bit resolution digital. Partly as a result, the measured EIAJ Dynamic Range came out at a very high 121dB, which is up with the best DACs on the market; anything above 120dB is currently top tier.
    The USB input works up to 384kHz sample rate and successfully passed a 384kHz test signal, although frequency response was no wider than that recorded for a 192kHz signal. Measured dynamic range was again a high 121dB so there is no degradation here and all other figures were identical to S/PDIF.
    The Chord 2Qute DAC measured very well in all areas. It has a high 3V output and a high dynamic range value, suggesting exceptional sound quality. NK


Frequency response (-1dB)
CD                                        4Hz-36kHz
Distortion (%)
0dB                                      0.0003
-60dB                                   0.02
Separation (1kHz)               114dB
Noise (IEC A)                       -120dB
Dynamic range (EIAJ)         121dB
Output                                  3V

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

DYNAMIC RANGE (-60.792dB - 60dB = 121dB)