Chord Hugo 2 Transportable DAC Headphone Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

The Chord Hugo 2 is a powerful Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to significantly enhance the sound quality of headphones and audio systems. It incorporates cutting-edge proprietary DAC technology and is suitable for both home and mobile use. The unit features intuitive spherical control buttons that illuminate with color-coded information for power, input, filtering, and crossfeed functions. Its line-level output and full-function remote control provide flexibility for integration into various audio setups.

What's in the Box

• Chord Hugo 2 Unit
• Full-function Remote Control
• USB Charging Cable
• Optical Cable
• Coaxial Cable

2. Safety Information

• Do not expose the device to water or excessive moisture.
• Avoid extreme temperatures.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the unit. This will void the warranty.
• Use only approved power adapters and cables.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Keep out of reach of children.

3. Setup

3.1 Charging the Device

The Hugo 2 has a battery life of approximately 7 hours of continuous playback. To charge the device, connect the provided USB charging cable to the charging port on the unit and to a suitable USB power source. A full charge takes approximately 7 hours.

3.2 Driver Installation

• Mac OS X and Linux: The Hugo 2 is driverless and should be recognized automatically by your system.
• Windows OS: A dedicated driver is required for Windows operating systems. Please visit the official Chord Electronics website to download and install the latest driver for the Hugo 2.

3.3 Connecting Audio Sources

The Hugo 2 offers various input options for connecting your audio sources:

• Wired Connectivity: Utilize the optical, coaxial, or USB inputs for high-resolution audio playback.
• Bluetooth: For wireless convenience, the Hugo 2 supports Bluetooth connectivity with a range of up to 10 meters. Pair your Bluetooth-enabled device with the Hugo 2 to stream audio wirelessly.

Image: Rear view of the Chord Hugo 2, displaying the analog output (RCA), coaxial, and optical input ports.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Control Buttons and Indicators

The Hugo 2 features four spherical control buttons on its top surface. These buttons illuminate with different colors to indicate their current function or status:

• Power Button: Controls the device's power on/off state.
• Input Button: Cycles through available audio inputs (USB, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth).
• Filter Button: Selects different digital filter settings to tailor the sound signature.
• Crossfeed Button: Adjusts the crossfeed function, which blends left and right channels to simulate a more natural speaker-like soundstage when using headphones.

Image: Top view of the Chord Hugo 2, highlighting the four spherical control buttons with their color-coded illumination.

4.2 Remote Control

A full-function remote control is included for convenient operation of the Hugo 2 from a distance. The remote allows control over power, input selection, volume, and other functions without needing to directly interact with the unit's buttons.

4.3 Audio Playback

Once connected and powered on, select your desired input using the Input button. The Hugo 2 will automatically detect and process the incoming audio signal. It supports PCM signals up to 717.6kHz and DSD formats from DSD64 to DSD512, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of high-resolution audio files.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Chord Hugo 2, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or strong chemicals.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the Hugo 2 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Handle the device with care to prevent drops or impacts that could damage internal components.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Chord Hugo 2, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power: Ensure the unit is fully charged or connected to a power source. Check the power button and cable connections.
• No Sound: Verify that the correct input is selected on the Hugo 2. Check all audio cable connections to your source and headphones/speakers. Ensure volume is not muted or set too low. For Windows users, confirm that the correct driver is installed and the Hugo 2 is selected as the audio output device.
• Intermittent Connection (Bluetooth): Ensure your Bluetooth device is within the 10-meter range and there are no significant obstructions. Try re-pairing the device.
• Distorted Audio: Check the source audio file quality. Ensure all connections are secure. Try a different audio cable or input.

If the issue persists after attempting these steps, please contact Chord Electronics customer support for further assistance.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Chord Electronics website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Online Resources:

• Chord Electronics Official Website