The Chord Hugo 2 is a high-performance portable DAC and headphone amplifier engineered with the latest FPGA architecture and advanced WTA (Watts Transient Aligned) filters for exceptional sound quality and flexibility in both portable and home audio setups.

Sleek new aircraft-grade aluminium casework

Hugo 2 features precision-machined aircraft-grade aluminium housing with a refined, low-profile design. The unit incorporates four top-mounted spherical control buttons that use colour-coded illumination to manage power, input selection, filtering and the digital crossfeed system. The enlarged top-mounted volume control sphere improves handling and operational accuracy. The physical design accommodates both portability and indoor use within desktop or full-size audio systems. A full-function remote control and dedicated line-level output mode ensure seamless integration into conventional hi-fi setups.

New levels of technical performance

The implementation of the latest FPGA technology and refined WTA filtering significantly enhances timing accuracy, reduces noise and improves dynamic range. The upgraded headphone amplifier delivers increased power output, while digital DC servos eliminate the need for inline capacitors, reducing distortion and enhancing the output stage’s drive performance. A brief switch-on delay results from these upgrades but offers substantial sonic benefits.

Comprehensive digital inputs

Hugo 2 provides four digital inputs including optical, coaxial, high-definition USB and extended-range Bluetooth. The high-definition USB input supports playback of high-resolution audio files up to 768kHz and DSD512 (Octa DSD) quality. Analogue outputs include dual RCA, 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone connections, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of headphones and audio systems. Laser-ablated function labelling on connections and switches enhances user operation and clarity.

User-selectable filtering option

The four-position filtering system, accessible via its dedicated control sphere, allows users to tailor frequency response characteristics. Available options range from warm and smooth to transparent and analytical sound signatures, offering precise control to match personal preferences or system requirements.

Advanced crossfeed system for headphone use

Hugo 2 incorporates a sophisticated digital crossfeed circuit based on binaural research. This system introduces a carefully shaped and time-delayed signal from each channel to the opposite channel, simulating the natural listening experience of loudspeakers. Three crossfeed modes are available and controlled by a dedicated sphere on the unit.

Improved battery life and charging functionality

Hugo 2 offers approximately seven hours of portable operation. Two automated charging modes via a dedicated Micro USB port provide flexibility, with a fast charge option delivering 1.8 amperes and a slow charge mode supplying less than one ampere. A status indicator displays both charge progress and battery levels.

Enhanced output stage and reduced distortion

The advanced output stage features digital DC servos that replace traditional inline capacitors. This modification further reduces distortion while boosting output power and system efficiency, ensuring clean and dynamic sound reproduction across various headphone types and audio systems.