Chord Electronics Hugo 2

Yes, the Hugo 2 features a dedicated line-level mode that allows you to bypass the volume control, making it easy to connect directly to an external amplifier or active speakers.

The Hugo 2 uses a proprietary Xilinx Artix 7 FPGA chipset rather than off-the-shelf DAC chips. This allows for significantly more precise signal processing, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed soundstage that is widely considered a benchmark in portable audio.

With an output power of 740 mW at 33 ohms and an extremely low output impedance of 0.025 Ω, the Hugo 2 is designed to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors to most full-sized over-ear models, with excellent control and clarity.

These settings allow you to tailor the sound signature to your personal preference. The filters subtly adjust the frequency response, while the crossfeed modes mimic the spatial experience of listening to speakers, which can reduce listener fatigue during long sessions.

The Hugo 2 includes Bluetooth connectivity for convenience, but for the highest fidelity audio—such as 768 kHz PCM or DSD512—you will need to use a wired connection via the optical, coaxial, or HD USB inputs.

While it is technically portable and battery-powered, the Hugo 2 is substantial at 450 grams. It is perfect for moving between rooms or taking on trips, but it is larger and heavier than typical pocket-sized dongle DACs.