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Chord Electronics Qutest Digital Analog Converter (DAC) Chord Qutest for sale in Excellent condition. Presents as new and works flawlessly. Have thoroughly enjoyed its sound. Lots of review online. Only selling due to change in direction. Comes with all original Accessories and Packaging. Priced appropriately. Condition: Excellent Payment Method: Paypal(Buyer Pays any fees), Bank Tranfer, Cash on Pickup Region/State: (SA) South Australia/Australia By Gotham 0 Comments AUD $1,410 Date: November 21, 20241 yr
# Chord Electronics QUTEST (Digital) – A$1,410
The asking price sits right at the median of recent comparable listings (A$1,425), landing comfortably within the interquartile range. This is fair market pricing—neither a steal nor inflated. The QUTEST remains a solid mid-tier DAC with no newer direct replacement from Chord, so it hasn't been obsoleted; however, the digital audio market has become more competitive since its release, and used units in good condition typically range A$1,350–A$1,500. At A$1,410, you're paying standard rate for what the market currently asks.
Before committing, verify the unit powers on cleanly and that all digital inputs (USB, S/PDIF, optical) respond without dropouts or noise floor anomalies—the QUTEST's reputation is solid, but used USB implementations can degrade. Confirm it includes the original power supply (non-negotiable) and ideally the USB cable; missing accessories justify haggling down. Check for any cosmetic damage to the case or display, and ask the seller whether it's been in a smoke-free environment, as internal dust can affect longevity on compact designs like this.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Chord Electronics, a British high-fidelity powerhouse, traces its roots to the aviation industry. Founded in 1989 by John Franks, a former Marconi Avionics engineer, the company emerged from his early 1980s innovations in ultra-reliable, high-frequency switching power supplies for aircraft electronics. Initially too costly for commercial viability, the designs became feasible with advancing components, launching Chord from its Kent headquarters in a renovated pumphouse that remains its manufacturing heart.
The brand excels in premium amplifiers and digital-to-analog converters (DACs), blending Franks' analog prowess with digital expertise from FPGA specialist Rob Watts. Early power amplifiers quickly won acclaim from professional studios like the BBC, Abbey Road, and Skywalker Sound, establishing credibility before shifting focus to consumer hi-fi. Iconic products like the Hugo and Mojo DACs exemplify their boundary-pushing approach, alongside integrated amps and streamers, all handcrafted in the UK without compromise on power, precision, or musicality.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Chord commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its uncompromising engineering, aerospace-grade reliability, and bold innovation. Independent and proudly British, it sets benchmarks in transparency and dynamics, attracting buyers who demand reference-level performance over mass-market concessions.
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