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Offered for sale is a Chord Qutest DAC complete with the matching Chord Qutest Stand System, presented in excellent pre-owned condition.The Qutest has become one of the most celebrated standalone digital-to-analog converters in high-end audio, earning multiple industry awards for its remarkable combination of detail retrieval, transparency, and musical engagement. Designed and manufactured in England, it incorporates Chord Electronics' proprietary FPGA architecture developed by renowned digital designer Rob Watts, rather than relying on an off-the-shelf DAC chip.At the heart of the Qutest is Chord's custom-coded FPGA platform featuring a 49,152-tap filter and support for PCM resolutions up to 768kHz as well as native DSD512 playback. The result is an exceptionally resolving DAC capable of delivering outstanding imaging, timing accuracy, and low-level detail across a wide variety of systems.The included Chord Qutest Stand System provides an elegant display solution, allowing the DAC to be positioned vertically while complementing Chord's distinctive industrial design. Together, the DAC and stand create a compact yet visually striking front-end component suitable for both desktop and full-scale audiophile systems.Key FeaturesAward-winning standalone DACProprietary Chord FPGA architectureCustom Rob Watts digital filtering technologySupports PCM up to 768kHzNative DSD512 capabilitySelectable digital filtering optionsSelectable output voltage settingsPrecision-machined aluminum chassisDesigned and manufactured in EnglandIncludes matching Chord Qutest Stand SystemIncludedChord Qutest DACChord Qutest Stand SystemPower supplyOriginal packagingManual and factory accessoriesFor additional information by email, please put Attention: DanBy phone, ask for DanTerms:• Canadian purchases: EMT/payments accepted• PayPal fees not included• Shipping not included• No trades• Duties, brokerage, and customs fees not included
At US$1,419, this is above the usual used QUTEST ask and looks ambitious versus the local benchmark: the median is US$1,031, with the 75th percentile at US$1,250, so this sits meaningfully over the top of the recent range. Compared with the obvious alternative at this money, I’d expect either a cleaner example, extras, or a more negotiable seller to justify it.
The reason to buy a QUTEST is simple: it’s a well-regarded DAC for clean, highly resolving conversion with excellent timing and a very natural, non-fatiguing presentation. It tends to reward good upstream gear and makes a strong hub for a serious system, but at this price I’d want confirmation of condition, included accessories, and any original packaging before paying up.
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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