In 2014, Chord Electronics introduced Hugo, a revolutionary portable DAC and headphone amp that became a landmark product in the audio landscape. Advances in digital technology, including the latest FPGAs and WTA (Watts Transient Aligned) filters, have enabled them to introduce a next-generation version, Hugo 2 – Portable DAC/Preamp/Headphone Amplifier, featuring flexible new features, plus next-generation technical and sonic performance. The Hugo 2 – Portable DAC/Preamp/Headphone Amplifier can be used both at home and on the go, either with headphones or within a conventional audio system. Its line-level output and full-function remote control add real flexibility in full-size and desktop systems. The device offers four digital inputs (optical, coaxial, and HD USB) plus extended-range Bluetooth, with high-resolution file playback up to 768kHz and up to DSD512 (Octa DSD), via its HD USB input. Analog outputs include 2x RCA, plus 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs. A four-function switch filter offers a useful degree of user-selectable frequency-shaping, bringing warm and soft or transparent and incisive presentations, giving additional flexibility and user control. For headphone-listening, Hugo 2 retains the popular digital cross-feed function of the original and offers three operation modes. The system duplicates the effect of listening to speakers and is based on advanced binaural audio research. Hugo 2 – Portable DAC/Preamp/Headphone Amplifier features four spherical control buttons, which illuminate with color-coding information and control power, input, filtering, plus the unit’s cross-feed functions. Battery playing time is around seven hours and two modes of automatic charging are included using the dedicated Micro USB charging port; an indicator shows charging and battery-charge status.