Chord - Hugo M Scaler

Chord's philosophy of using custom long length digital filters programmed into FPGAs continues in the form of Hugo m scaler. The product uses same tech as in Blu mk2 cd transport but in much more compact and cheaper package. The first impression is that the device feels much smaller actually than in images on web. It is extremely well built and be tucked anywhere in your system except in very closed spaces as it can be a bit warm(not hot) during operation. It requires about 70 to 80 hours but in imho. Through its dual bnc coaxial out it outputs upto 768khz upscaled output, filtering out all noise while preserving the timing of transients courtesy 1M tap WTA filter. The output can be fed to dual bnc compatible chord dacs like qutest, Hugo 2, tt2 and Dave. The output of a single bnc (half of 768khz) can be fed to any other compatible dac of even other brands. Though the full benefit of m scaler will not be available out of single bnc. Now coming to sound. The sound via Hugo 2 is changed into a much more precise soundstage, focussed vocals , punchy textured bass with a clear sense reverb. Vocals become scarily realistic . One can feel the singer in the room. The extra details are not at the cost of increased brightness and overall impression is like a original analog master vinyl and even better in many areas like higher s/n, better frequency extension and no click or pops. Imho this device is vinyl killer with a compatible dac. Must must have for an audiophile willing to spend for ultimate transparency and realism.

My setup: JRiver MC 28 in Bit Perfect audio mode => M Scaler => Qutest => Topping Pre90 => Emotiva XPA-DR2 => Klipsch RP-8000F. I connected M Scaler & Qutest in dual data mode to upsample regular 44.1kHz PCM to 705.6kHz. To activate dual data mode, care needs to be taken to connect BNC 1 & 2 (from M Scaler) to BNC 1 & 2 (on Qutest), respectively. Select "Max" via "OP SR" button on M Scaler. On Qutest, the "Input" button glows green confirming dual data mode. In case, Qutest denies moving to dual data mode, lookout for loose BNC connector. I used the (75 ohms) BNC cables that accompanied M Scaler. Achieving this setup took some time + few email exchanges with Chord UK. Chord should improve the user manual for Qutest & M Scaler with setup details specific to dual data mode. Coming to musical experience: With M Scaler in the loop, the sound become warm. I could feel drastic reduction in harshness. Bass, Guitar & Piano sounded magical. Depth & soundstage was simply awesome. Overall, you can continue listening music for hours without ear fatigue :)
Many thanks to Headphone Zone for hosting fantastic audiophile grade audio gears.