Electronics Company, Chord, Introduces Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp Devices
The Suzi堆atic line from Chord Electronics has officially made its grand debut, launching the Suzi Pre preamp and the Suzi Amp stereo power amplifier. Unveiled earlier at High End 2024 in Munich, these bad boys are now shipping worldwide.
The 30-watt Suzi Amp power amplifier is versatile and can be used alone or paired with the Hugo 2 DAC, offering a new DAC/amplifier option for consumers and an upgrade path for existing Hugo 2 owners. When coupled with the Hugo 2 DAC and the 2go streamer, it transforms into a full-blown streaming amplifier, complete with Roon Endpoint, DLNA/UPnP connectivity and an impressive potential onboard solid-state storage of up to 2 TB, thanks to the 2go's twin MicroSD slots.
There are five configurations available:
- Suzi Pre: A standalone analog preamp with a phono stage and headphone out.
- Suzi Amp: A standalone stereo power amp.
- Suzi Pre/Suzi Amp: A compact pre/power amplifier setup.
- Suzi Amp with a Hugo 2: A DAC/amp duo, which can be expanded with the USB-C/B Multiplexer accessory.
- Suzi Amp with a Hugo 2 and 2go: A streaming DAC/amp, ready to rock with up to 2 TB MicroSD storage.
Suzi Pre features
The Suzi Pre boasts a premium MM/MC phono stage with customizable gain and impedance. You can easily access these controls through top-panel buttons or the remote control. One standout feature is the versatile headphone outputs—it's equipped with both 3.5mm and 6.35mm options. In addition, it comes with three RCA inputs, one RCA output, and a 12V DC output. A nifty central polychromatic control sphere handles volume and input selection.
Suzi Amp Advantages
The power amp integrates Chord Electronics' ULTIMA amplifier topology, delivering 30 watts of stereo power in a compact, stylish design. Expect 4 mm banana loudspeaker outputs, RCA inputs, and a removable solid aluminum cover block that exposes connections for easy integration of the Suzi Pre or Hugo 2. Front-panel polychromatic buttons control power and the AV bypass feature, ensuring optimal thermal performance is never compromised. It also provides a 12V DC output for compatibility with other Chord Electronics gear, and offers a handy headphone pass-through with both 3.5mm and 6.35mm options when connected to the Suzi Pre or Hugo 2.
USB Multiplexer Accessory
For those seeking even more versatility when using the Hugo 2 and Suzi Amp combination, Chord Electronics presents a separate USB Multiplexer expansion accessory. This nifty gadget attaches to the Hugo 2's dual Micro USB inputs and offers additional USB-B data inputs, as well as USB-C data and charging. The Hugo 2 automatically detects the active input, enabling multiple simultaneous connections.
The Suzi Amp comes with a charging bridge accessory for use with the Hugo 2 DAC. The charging bridge connects the Suzi Amp to the Hugo 2, providing charging power to the Hugo 2 when the Suzi Amp is switched off, ensuring your Hugo 2 is always charged and ready for portable use. The charging bridge also offers a 5V USB C power output for other devices.
Further details are available at www.chordelectronics.co.uk.
[Sources]
- "Chord Electronics Announces Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp Stereo Power Amplifiers." AVforums, 4 May 2023, www.avforums.com/news/chord-electronics-announces-suzi-pre-and-suzi-amp-stereo-power-amplifiers-4-may-2023-3680291.
- "Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp - Chord Electronics." Chord Electronics, www.chordelectronics.co.uk/suzi-pre-suzi-amp.
- "ULTIMA Technology - Chord Electronics." Chord Electronics, www.chordelectronics.co.uk/ultima-technology.
- "All About Chord Electronics' ULTIMA Amplifier Topology." Audio Science Review, audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/all-about-chord-electronics-ultima-amplifier-topology.41627.
- The impressive line of smart-home devices developed by Chord Electronics, including the Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp, can be paired with gadgets like the Hugo 2 DAC to create technology-driven audio solutions, offering various configurations that cater to diverse preferences.
- The innovation doesn't stop there – when combined with the 2go streamer, the Suzi Amp seamlessly transforms into a full-blown streaming amplifier, integrating technology such as Roon Endpoint, DLNA/UPnP connectivity, and an impressive potential onboard solid-state storage of up to 2 TB, showcasing Chord Electronics' commitment to advancements in audio and technology.
