Anybody here upgrade from Chord Qutest DAC"


Chord Qutest is a strong contender, especially with linear power supply, but I’m curious about greener pastures, or at least different-colored pastures. Think my system is good enough to notice: ear 868l pre, pass xa30.8, omega alnico Xrs speakers. Streaming only.

Anybody here upgrade from chord qutest with other chord dacs or different brands altogether? What improved, what was lost?
redwoodaudio

Showing 1 response by jazzman7

@txp1 

A little over 2 weeks ago a Rockna Wavelight replaced a Chord Qutest in my main rig. The Qutest replaced a Bryston BDA1 in March of 2019.

What has been gained: Wider, deeper, more holographic sound stage that extends well beyond the speakers.  Even more highly resolving.  Much warmer  presentation (which for me and my system was a very good thing).  A fuller suite of inputs and outputs including i2s.

What has been lost:  The sheer cuteness of the Qutest's wonderfully compact form factor. The Rockna is a very good looking piece, but it is 17" wide and 12" deep. And a seriously deeper hit to the pocketbook.