Chordette Qute HD vs Musical Fidelity X-DAC v3
The X-DAC v3's bit depth is 24-bit against the Chordette Qute HD's 32-bit, its max sample rate 192 kHz against 384 kHz, its signal-to-noise 121 dB against 120 dB, and its thd 0.002% against 0.001%.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalDACsDiscontinued
About the Chordette Qute HD
The Chordette Qute HD is a compact, high-quality DAC from Chord Electronics Ltd, designed to bring the company's proprietary FPGA-based DAC technology to a more affordable price point. It supports digital inputs via USB, optical TosLink, and coaxial S/PDIF, with sample rates up to 384kHz/32-bit over coax, 192kHz/24-bit over TosLink, and 192kHz/32-bit over USB. It also supports native DSD streaming over USB. The unit features a solid aluminum chassis available in silver or black, with dimensions of 160mm x 40mm x 70mm. The Qute HD automatically detects active digital inputs and indicates the incoming sampling rate through a colored LED 'porthole' on the top panel, with colors representing different sample rates to aid user recognition. It delivers a maximum output of 3V unbalanced with an output impedance of 75 Ohm. The DAC is noted for its terrific dynamic expression, rhythmic precision, and full-bodied sound, earning it the What Hi-Fi? Best DAC award in 2013. It is manufactured in England and designed for audiophiles seeking high-resolution audio playback with excellent build quality and performance at a relatively accessible price point.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 32-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 384 kHz
- MQA Support
- No
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.001%
- SNR
- 120 dB
- Output Voltage
- 3.0V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 75Ω
- Max Output Voltage
- 3.0V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- USB, Optical, Coaxial
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 160 × 40 × 70 mm (W × H × D)
- Available Colors
- Silver, Black
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions