CHORD QUTEST Digital To Analogue Convertor User Manual

Qutest
Manual
V.2.0
**chordelectronics.co.uk
**

The general operation, and important information

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

Rear

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Front

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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
By 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 introduce a little 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 2
Up to 384kHz and up to DSD 128 (via DoP). Dual-data capable
COAX 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 dual data, Qutest can accept an upsampled signal from a Chord Electronics M-Scaler. To do so, connect the Dual-Data BNC outputs 1&2 of M-Scaler, to input BNC’s 1&2 of Qutest. Now ensure your M-Scaler OP SR button is set to MAX (white) and your Qutest input is set to COAX 1 (yellow). The Qutest now will auto-detect dual data and switch into this mode.

Variable line-level output and how to read sample rate

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 been 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 color 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, and specifications

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
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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 colors. 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
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
Specifications

Chord Electronics
Product Communication
The Pumphouse, Farleigh Lane, East Farleigh, Maidstone
ME16 9NB United Kingdon
[email protected]
chordelectronics.co.uk

References

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

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