Qutest Digital To Analogue Converter User Manual
- June 8, 2024
- Qutest
Table of Contents
Qutest Digital To Analogue Converter User 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
- USB Type-B input: 32-bit 768kHz PCM/up to DSD 512
- 2x BNC coaxial input – 24-bit/384kHz/Dual-data mode capable to 768kHz
- Optical input: 24-bit/192kHz DSD 64
- RCA analogue outputs (Left and Right)
- Micro USB power supply input – 5V 1-amp minimum
Front
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 fi lter options, it is possible to subtly change
the device’s tonal characteristics. Qutest achieves this not by strictly
applying an equalisation 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 fi lter.
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 fi
lter past 20kHz to remove HF distortion and noise from these recordings. This
includes a 16FS to 256FS WTA2
Warm
Designed to introduce a little warmth to recordings, this fi lter will
satisfy. This is a 16FS WTA1 fi lter only
Warm HF roll-off
Designed to add warmth to recordings, this fi lter will satisfy and is ideal
for high resolution PCM playback. This is a 16FS fi lter 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) 1
Up to 384kHz and up to DSD 128 (via DoP). Dual-data* capable
Coax (BNC) 2
Up to 384kHz and up to DSD 128 (via DoP). Dual-data* capable
Optical input
Up to 192kHz and DSD 64 (via DoP)
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).
*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 amplifi ers and pre-
amps.
-
During start-up (the fi rst 16 seconds), simultaneously press both
‘FILTER’ and ‘INPUT’ buttons
-
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 fi xed. Repeat the steps above to change the level.
1V RMS
2V RMS
3V RMS
MEMORY FUNCTION: Qutest remembers the last-used setting, including fi lter, input and variable voltage selection.
Setting the brightness of the LEDs
To adjust the brightness level (after Qutest has fi nished 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
**44.1
**
**48
**
**88.2
**
**96
**
**176.4
**
**192
**
**352.8
**
**384
**
**705.6
**
**768
**
**DSD
**
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 Windowsbased
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 (locatedwithin 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
**3 yearbg limited warranty on hardware
**
**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 outputbefore 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
Tap length: WTA1 16FS filter 49,152 taps
Elements: 10 Element Pulse Array Design
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
Dynamic range: 124dB A-Weighted
THD: 0.0001% 1kHz 2.5v RMS 300Ω
Channel separation : 138dB at 1kHz 300Ω
Noise floor modulation: None measurable
Dimensions: 41mm (H) x 160mm (W) x 72mm (D
Weight: 770g
MADE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
@chordaudio
@chordelectronics
chordelectronics
References
- Chord Electronics - High-End Audio for Hi-Fi Enthusiasts & Professionals
- Chord Electronics - High-End Audio for Hi-Fi Enthusiasts & Professionals
- Support | Chord Electronics
- Register Your Product | Chord Electronics
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