Chord Electronics Hugo M Scaler Standalone 1M-Tap Digital Upscaling Device

Chord Electronics Hugo M Scaler Standalone 1M-Tap Digital Upscaling Device

Using technology first seen in the flagship BLU MKII digital/CD transport, the Hugo M Scaler is a standalone upscaling device containing the world’s most advanced digital filter. When used with a dual-BNC-input Chord Electronics DAC, it is capable of redefining digital audio sound quality.

Hugo M Scaler uses the world’s most advanced filter technology to upscale standard 44.1kHz digital audio up to 705.6kHz (16x CD’s 44.1kHz native resolution), ready to be passed to a suitable DAC; Hugo M Scaler extends its upscaling performance to 768kHz (from 96kHz input data) for dual-BNC-input Chord Electronics DACs: DAVE, Qutest and the new Hugo TT 2.

35 years in the making, the Hugo M Scaler brings the unrivalled advantages of Rob Watts’ (Chord Electronics’ Digital Design Consultant) ground-breaking FPGA-based WTA (Watts Transient Alignment) filtering technology to digitally connected audio devices, dramatically improving sound quality. Benefitting equipment includes: streamers; smartphones and smart devices; laptops and computers; CD/DVD players/transports and much more.

Although optimised for use with selected Chord Electronics DACs (for the maximum 768kHz upscaling/decoding benefit), the new Hugo M Scaler can be used with other DACs with suitable inputs, subject to their decoding capability. Hugo M Scaler’s advanced upscaling technology can improve the sound quality of all (digital-source) set-ups, whether headphone or desktop-based or within conventional hi-fi systems.

Features:

• The most advanced digital filter in the world
• Upscales digital audio up to 705.6kHz (16x CD’s 44.1kHz native resolution)
• Upscaling to 768kHz (from 96kHz files) with selected Chord Electronics DACs
• Rob Watts’ 35-year goal of >1M taps achieved: M Scaler has 1,015,808 WTA taps
• Improves all digital: streamers; smart devices/computers; CD/DVD players and more
• Transient accuracy is taken to a completely unprecedented level
• Use with a DAC in headphone, desktop and conventional hi-fi systems
• Compact TT chassis stackable with Hugo TT 2 DAC/pre and TToby power amp
• Multiple inputs for a range of devices: galvanically isolated USB-B; 2x BNC; 2x optical
• Galvanically isolated dual BNC outputs (to 768kHz) for use with DAVE, Qutest, Hugo TT 2 and future products; single BNC to 384kHz output, optical to 192kHz
• Adjustable sample rate output (with pass-thru mode)
• Video mode (for lower latency)
• Auto video and source selection
• ‘DX’ controls for future product
• Designed, engineered and entirely made in the UK
• Precision-milled chassis, crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium

Hugo M Scaler features five digital inputs (2x BNC, 2x optical, plus a galvanically isolated USB Type-B) offering wide-ranging digital connectivity; the USB-B input is compatible with DSD and PCM data (up to DSD 256), with DSD upsampled to PCM using proprietary filtering, which has much better attenuation of DSD noise and distortion.

Hugo M Scaler’s outputs include optical, S/PDIF and galvanically isolated dual BNC, the latter of which enable upscaling to the maximum resolution (768kHz from 96kHz data) for direct connection to the 768kHz-capable dual BNC digital inputs featured on the DAVE DAC/pre/headphone amp, the recently announced (High End 2018, Munich) Hugo TT 2 DAC/pre/head amp and the new Qutest standalone DAC.

The Hugo M Scaler’s compact form factor aligns with the TT (Table Top) series and has been designed to be stackable with other units in the range, including the TToby stereo power amp and the aforementioned Hugo TT 2, to form a highly advanced yet space-saving system.

In line with other models in the Hugo and Hugo TT series, the device features a number of illuminable fascia-mounted spherical controls, governing input selection, output sample rate and video mode for lower latency. As with previous Chord Electronics digital devices, the control spheres display data visually including input source and the incoming sample rate, using a polychromatic scale. The Hugo M Scaler also features front-panel ‘DX’ controls which have been included for use with future products.

The upscaler benefits from an adjustable sample rate output (with pass-thru mode) enabling user-defined control, subject to the technical limitations of the output type: 192kHz optical; 384kHz BNC and 768kHz dual BNC), plus a video mode for lower latency, bringing useful flexibility with a wide range of partnering components. Further extending its functionality is auto video and source selection.

Featuring technology previously exclusive to the BLU MKII upscaling digital/CD transport (£7,995), the extraordinary upscaling ability of the Hugo M Scaler brings the benefits of Rob Watts’ proprietary FPGA-based tech to a much wider audience, given its £3,495 price point.

When partnered with either of Chord Electronics’ 768kHz-capable dual-BNC-input DACs, the Hugo M Scaler sets an astonishing technical benchmark for digital audio performance at it price point, redefining sound quality from digital audio.

Specification:

• Materials: Precision machined aluminium casing with steel ball bearing buttons, gloss black acrylic signal window, glass viewing portal, and dot matrix display. Available in a choice of two colours – silver, and satin black
• FPGA: Xilinx XC7A200T
• Tap length filter: 1,015,808 WTA taps
• Connectivity (input): 2x BNC, 2x optical, 1x galvanically isolated USB Type-B
• Connectivity (output): 1x optical, 1x S/PDIF, 1x galvanically isolated dual BNC
• Dimensions: 235mm x 40.5mm x 236mm
• Weight: 2.55kg
• Warranty: 3 Years

About Chord Electronics 

Chord Electronics Ltd is a renowned British audio company with a rich history and a distinct design philosophy that sets them apart in the industry. Established in 1989 by John Franks, Chord Electronics has gained a reputation for its innovative audio technology approach and unwavering commitment to sonic excellence.

Chord Electronics began its journey by specialising in designing and manufacturing high-performance amplifiers. Their early success can be attributed to the unique implementation of advanced technologies and meticulous attention to detail in constructing their products. Over the years, the company expanded its product range to include digital-to-analogue converters (DACs), headphone amplifiers, preamps, and other audio components.

One of the key aspects of Chord Electronics' design philosophy is its relentless pursuit of audio quality. The company believes in delivering the most transparent, detailed, and engaging sound reproduction possible. To achieve this, Chord Electronics employs cutting-edge technologies and innovative circuit designs. Their products often feature proprietary technologies such as FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), digital signal processing, advanced filtering algorithms, and ultra-precise clocking systems. This combination of cutting-edge engineering and meticulous design ensures that Chord Electronics products deliver exceptional sonic performance.

Chord Electronics also strongly emphasises the quality of materials and craftsmanship. Each product is meticulously designed and hand-assembled in their UK-based facility, with great attention to detail and rigorous quality control. The company uses high-quality components and materials, including custom-made circuit boards and precision-machined casings, to ensure both durability and optimal performance.

Furthermore, Chord Electronics maintains a strong commitment to continuous research and development. Their team of engineers and designers are constantly exploring new technologies and pushing the boundaries of audio innovation. This dedication to advancement and improvement has led to several industry accolades and a loyal customer base.

In summary, Chord Electronics Ltd has a history rooted in innovative design and engineering excellence. Their products result from a meticulous design philosophy focused on achieving the highest levels of audio quality. With their commitment to advanced technologies, attention to detail, and continuous improvement, Chord Electronics continues to be at the forefront of high-performance audio, offering products that redefine the boundaries of sonic reproduction.