Chord Mojo mk1 replaced a Denafrips Ares II in my main system. I only tried it out to see how it sounded……..and it stayed
I’ve heard reports that the mk2 is slightly less analogue sounding but not heard the mk2 myself.
I own the Chord QBD76 and it's my reference DAC in the main system. It sounds very very good and I love it a lot. I recently toyed with the idea of getting another DAC with a different flavour to swap between my main and secondary system. I don't intend to spend too much money on the alternative DAC but do not wish to end up with something that won't last long in the system. In other words, although the DAC will be rather cheap, it will need to sound pretty decent.
I've investigated some of the "giant killers" on the internet and Youtube. The Topping D70S and Denarips Ares II caught my eye as both seem to be in my price range. Then out of nowhere the Chord Qutest was said to kill them all. Well, that's a bit of exaggeration but the Chord was said to be more detailed with an airier 3-d presentation. Further research revealed that all these DACs have their own house sound. From the things I read, the Chord DACs appear to set themselves apart from other manufacturers by producing a 3-dimensional, airy and detailed sound. That's the main strength or forte of Chord DACs in general. Other DACs sound flatter, 2-dimensional but may produce a stronger bass or fuller midrange, whatever.
I have limited experience with DACs as I only compared the Chord QBD76 to a Musical Fidelity M1 which I owned previously. There's just no comparison between the 2, night and day difference to my ears, in my system. The M1 was sold within 1 month after the Chord got into the system. In some ways, I can relate to the comments made by people who have compared the Chords to various DACs out there. The QBD76 throws a 3-dimensional sound, a palpable presentation with an airy treble which also sounds 3-dimensional. there is space between instruments. The QBD76 made the Musical Fidelity sound flat 2-dimensional. And underwhelming listen with the MF M1.
Coming back to the topic of this thread. Based on the comparison between the Chord QBD76 and Musical Fidelity M1 in my system, I am quite wary of the various options of DACs in the market. I like the presentation of the Chord and wish to try something different but do not intend to deviate too much from the quality of the Chord. In my view, the 3-dimensional airy and detailed sound of the Chord is the main selling point for me. You either hate it or you love it. Some folks may prefer something fuller or warmer if the speakers or amp sound bright so it's system dependent apart from listening preferences.
In the end, I may just consider a Qutest instead of a Topping D70S, Denafrips or something else. The negative aspect with the cheaper Chord DACs is they lack balanced outputs and cannot take a full-sized power cord. I would appreciate more thoughts from people who have compared a Chord particularly the higher end models Hugo TT or Dave to some of the cheaper alternatives.
