The new Chordette Qute EX DAC is an
upgraded version of the multi-award-winning QuteHD DAC: a What Hi-Fi?
Sound and Vision 'Best DAC' winner for both 2012 and 2013. The Qute EX,
which is available alongside the QuteHD, now offers both 384kHz PCM and
DSD 128 playback for today¡¯s high-resolution DXD (Digital eXtreme
Definition) music files.
Forming part of the bijou Chordette range, the new Qute EX adds an
advanced new chipset and motherboard which enables decoding at up to
384kHz PCM and DSD 128 over USB (against the QuteHD¡¯s 192kHz PCM and DSD
64). Existing QuteHD DACs can be upgraded affordably with the new
chipset and motherboard at the factory.
The Qute EX builds on the strengths of original QuteHD, a compact
high-performance D/A convertor that eschews off-the-shelf DAC chipsets
in favour of a bespoke FPGA (programmable) circuit. Its EX stable mate,
with the ¡®EX¡¯ suffix denoting its DXD (Digital eXtreme Definition)
intentions, takes the Qute¡¯s high-resolution file playback capability to
a whole new level.
The Qute EX offers a range of bespoke DAC technologies taken from the
flagship QBD76 HDSD, which forms part of our stylish Choral range, and
is the latest edition to our beautiful high-performance boutique line,
Chordette; a comprehensive range that brings the brand¡¯s exemplary audio
engineering and legendary build quality to a far more affordable price
point. The Qute EX brings exceptional detail-retrieval, insight and
transparency to digital music files, thanks to its bespoke circuit
design created by DAC technology guru Rob Watts and implemented by our
inte
ationally renowned engineering team.
Ready to take advantage of today¡¯s advanced studio-master-quality (DXD)
music files, the Qute EX can handle sample rates from 44.1kHz to 384kHz
(PCM), allowing users to experience music in true high definition, along
with the best possible reproduction of CD-quality music. The Qute EX
benefits from an advanced asynchronous USB input (up to 384kHz) and can
also bring sparkling clarity to any connected component with a digital
output, thanks to two additional digital inputs: coaxial and optical.
In addition to 384kHz PCM files, the QuteEX can also process DSD 128
data using the latest DSD-over-PCM standard (DoP), making it the world¡¯s
most affordable high-quality DSD 128- and 384kHz-compatible USB DAC.
Whether using Mac OS or Windows OS, Chord Electronics¡¯ own proprietary
driver software is provided, removing the restrictions of current
operating system audio playback.
Background
Redefining sonic performance in the affordable DAC category, the Qute EX
showcases the unique talents of Robert Watts, whose state-of-the-art
world-class proprietary FPGA technology lies at the digital heart of the
device and allows capabilities far exceeding that of normal commercial
DACs. The custom-designed FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)
incorporates all of the functions required of a DAC: SPDIF decoding;
Isochronous USB timing and Digital PLL; WTA interpolation filtering; DSD
over USB support and finally, the Pulse Array DAC.
The ¡®HD¡¯ USB input benefits from its own separate FPGA and features
asynchronous USB technology, isolating the digital clocks from the
computer. Each sample rate clock is generated discretely using highly
accurate crystal oscillators for optimum performance and ultra-low
jitter performance.
The Qute EX shares the same bomb-proof build quality and stunning
aesthetics that have helped make Chord Electronics famous around the
world, and just like other members of the Chordette range, the QuteEX
benefits from a one-piece aluminium chassis that has been milled from
solid billet in the UK. Complementing the elegant design is a
top-mounted ¡®porthole¡¯ that gives users an intriguing insight into the
inte
al circuitry, which changes colour with differing incoming sample
rates.
Exceptional sound quality has been achieved by our highly accomplished
engineering team, thanks to their world-renowned expertise with D/A
conversion and DAC production. Like all Chordette boutique products, the
Qute EX can be complemented with a matching rack or Chordette Carry
case.
An upgraded DAC will also be added to our four-strong Chordette X
Series, replacing the QX DAC. Called the QEX, it will join the IX
streamer, TX headphone amp and SX power amp to complete the X Series
which features squared-off casework and a number of luxurious finishes,
including highly polished gold.
Technical Specifications
Qute EX:
Technical specifications
Harmonic distortion: 103 dBV
Signal-to-noise ratio: 115dBV
Dynamic range: 118dBV
Digital inputs:
1 x USB HD with DSD 128 decoding, 44.1 kHz to 384kHz PCM, 16-32-bit
1x Optical
1x Coaxial 44.1 kHz/384kHz-ready, 16-32-bit
Outputs: 2x RCA phono
Power supply: 12v 1A 2.1mm connector. Centre point positive 100V- 240V –
50/60Hz, 1A wall adapter supplied
Weight: 0.4kg
Dimensions: 160x70x40mm (WxHxD): |
|
|
2,450,000¿ø
|
1,399,000¿ø
|
590,000¿ø
|
1,070,000¿ø
|
|