Chord Qutest - Digital To Analogue Converter Manual

Getting to know Qutest

Welcome to Qutest, an advanced ultra-compact FPGA digital-to-analogue converter proudly developed and manufactured by Chord Electronics in Kent, England. Please take a few moments to familiarise yourself with its operation.

Rear

1. USB Type-B input: 32-bit 768kHz PCM/up to DSD 512
2. 2x BNC coaxial input - 24-bit/384kHz/Dual-data mode capable to 768kHz
3. Optical input: 24-bit/192kHz DSD 64
4. RCA analogue outputs (Left and Right)
5. Micro USB power supply input - 5V 1-amp minimum

Front

6. Filter selection switch - 4x filters available
7. Viewing glass porthole and sample rate indicator
8. Input selector switch

Power connection

Qutest is supplied with an external power supply and has been designed to be permanently connected to a power source. A 5V 2.1-amp Micro USB cable and power supply is supplied. Note: Qutest cannot be powered via the USB Type-B input.

Selectable options and variable line level

Qutest has two selector spheres on the front of the unit, FILTER and INPUT. Each button also has an additional function - variable line-level output mode and variable display brightness. Please refer to the sections below to learn more.

Filters

cycling through the four filter options, it is possible to subtly change the device's tonal characteristics. Qutest achieves this not by strictly applying an equalization curve, but by changing the way in which the FPGA handles the data.

Incisive neutral

Designed for all who wish to hear the full spectrum of audio no matter what sample rate, this option has an ultra linear frequency response. For the technically minded this includes a 16FS to 256FS WTA2 filter.

Warm

Designed to introduce a little warmth to recordings, this filter will satisfy. This is a 16FS WTA1 filter only.

Incisive neutral

HF roll-off Designed for purists in mind, who playback high sample rate PCM recordings, this option has an ultra linear frequency response with a high frequency filter past 20kHz to remove HF distortion and noise from these recordings. This includes a 16FS to 256FS WTA2 filter with the HF filter enabled.

Warm HF roll-off

Designed to add warmth to recordings, this filter will satisfy and is ideal for high resolution PCM playback. This is a 16FS filter but with a high-frequency roll-off.

Inputs

With four selectable digital input options, Qutest is a standalone DAC that acts as a digital hub to allow audio components to be instantly upgraded. Many hi-fi and audio components can benefit, including CD transports and players, streamers, computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones, plus most audio devices with a suitable digital output.

HD Type-B USB


Up to 768kHz and DSD 512 native playback. DSD 64 - DSD 256 via DoP, native DSD via ASIO

Coax (BNC) 2

Up to 384kHz and up to DSD 128 (via DoP). Dual-data* capable

Dual Data Mode

Qutest will automatically detect when both BNC inputs are connected. Dual data mode will play up to 768kHz and DSD 256 (via DoP).

Coax (BNC) 1

Up to 384kHz and up to DSD 128 (via DoP). Dual-data* capable

Optical input

Up to 192kHz and DSD 64 (via DoP)

*M Scaler compatibility: Using both BNC inputs, Qutest is capable of dual-data mode. Simply connect the BNC outputs of M Scaler to the corresponding BNC inputs of Qutest to experience the full upscaling capabilities.

Variable line level output

Qutest has a three-stage variable output voltage feature (1V, 2V and 3V) enabling compatibility with a wide range of partnering amplifiers and pre-amps.

1. During start-up (the first 16 seconds), simultaneously press both 'FILTER' and 'INPUT' buttons
   
2. Release press and repeat the duplicate press again to reach the desired output level ranging from 1V, 2V and 3V. Once the start-up sequence has completed, the output level will be fixed. Repeat the steps above to change the level.
   
   MEMORY FUNCTION: Qutest remembers the last-used setting, including filter, input and variable voltage selection.

Setting the brightness of the LEDs

To adjust the brightness level (after Qutest has finished the start-up sequence), again, press both 'FILTER' and 'INPUT' to cycle between 'High' and 'Low' modes. This will dim both the internal and external LEDs.

How to read sample rate

Qutest is fully future-proof with 768kHz PCM support, DSD up to 256 via DoP (Mac) and native DSD up to DSD 512 playback (via ASIO driver for Windows). Sample rate switching is fully automatic, intuitively triggered by your device, playback application or computer. You can identify the incoming sample rate by observing the colour displayed in the viewing porthole and referencing it to the guide below:

44.1kHz to 768kHz - 16-bit to 32-bit Automatic sample rate switching

DSD up to DSD 256 via DoP, native DSD up to DSD 512 via ASIO driver

* Native DSD playback is only available via Windows OS with the driver available from the Chord Electronics website.

Sample frequencies in kHz

General operation

Drivers

Qutest is compatible with a wide variety of devices, including Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, iOS and Android systems. Drivers are required for Windows based operating systems and these can be located on the product page on the Chord Electronics website: chordelectronics.co.uk

Start-up sequence

Upon connection to power, Qutest will perform a start-up sequence evident by the internal sample rate indicator cycling through a series of rainbow colours. This will take approximately 16 seconds. During this time, Qutest may not be discoverable, or output any audio. As mentioned, Qutest automatically remembers last-used settings including Filter, Input, and Line Level selection.

NOTE: When the correct input is selected on Qutest and the device successfully detects an incoming signal the sample rate indicator will illuminate (located within the viewing porthole).

Galvanic isolation

Galvanic isolation involves isolating the power rails of the data USB input, allowing for greater sonic performance. Qutest features a Class 2 Type-B USB input with this protection. No special attention or cables are required to allow Qutest to function.

NO SOUND? Make sure that you have correctly selected Qutest as the digital audio output on your machine. When plugging Qutest into your computer, Qutest may not immediately or automatically be selected. For more help please visit: chordelectronics.co.uk/get-support

Care instructions

WARRANTY REGISTRATION: To activate the three-year parts and labour warranty, you must register the Qutest online at: chordelectronics.co.uk/register-product

• Please only use a dry cloth to clean Qutest
• Never directly spray liquids, including cleaners, onto Qutest
• Do not allow Qutest to come into contact with liquid
• Never poke objects into the exposed connectors apart from the designated connectors
• Never drop or expose Qutest to mechanical shock
• No user serviceable parts, do not disassemble Qutest. Doing so will void your warranty. Please contact your original dealer in the event of a fault
• Only operate within the specified temperatures
  

Important information

Qutest must be connected to a device capable of attenuating its output before being used. Connecting Qutest directly to a power amplifier can cause irreparable damage to your equipment and your hearing.

If you require any help or advice, we first recommend contacting your original dealer. They will have the best understanding of your system and will be able to offer you bespoke advice. If you require further assistance please visit the support page of the Chord Electronics website: chordelectronics.co.uk/get-support

PLACEMENT

• Keep Qutest off of carpet and soft surfaces
• Always allow the unit to be well ventilated
• Always keep away from sources of heat and direct sunlight
• Keep away from liquids and damp areas. Immediately unplug if contact occurs

THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE QUTEST. DO NOT DISASSEMBLE. DOING SO WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY, COULD DAMAGE YOUR UNIT, AND COULD RESULT IN ELECTROCUTION.

Specifications

chordelectronics.co.uk

@chordaudio

@chordelectronics

chordelectronics

Documents / Resources

References

• Chord Electronics - High-End Audio for Hi-Fi Enthusiasts & Professionals
• Support | Chord Electronics
• Register Your Product | Chord Electronics

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Chord Qutest - Digital To Analogue Converter Manual