It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new release from Chord. Since the Mojo was discontinued, what we were going to see next was put into question. Those questions have now been answered with the announcement of the Anni. The Anni is a new small desktop amplifier for both headphones and loudspeakers. It’s about the size of the Qutest, and features Ultima circuitry in order to exploit the full potential of today’s high-performance headphones, desktop monitors, and high-resolution audio sources.
The new Anni desktop integrated amplifier forms part of the Qutest range and seamlessly complements the resolving abilities of the multi-award-winning Qutest standalone DAC and Huei phono stage. As a system, the Qutest components provide an unrivaled desktop audio solution, offering class-leading digital and analog technologies for the modern music lover. The company’s compact QSS (Qutest Stand System) modular equipment rack provides the perfect support, too.
Benefitting from both 3.5 mm headphone outputs and ¼-inch (6.35 mm) outputs, so two can listen simultaneously, plus 4 mm banana-type loudspeaker outputs, Anni delivers 10 watts of Chord Electronics-quality ULTIMA amplification, controlled by a fascia-mounted volume control that also doubles as an input selector switch for Anni’s two line-level inputs. Two-stage gain control for loudspeakers provides additional flexibility with a wide range of desktop monitors.
Anni benefits from the same UK-made precision CNC-machined high-grade aluminum casework common to all Chord Electronics’ products and is entirely designed, engineered, and built in the UK. The company’s trademark polychromatic control spheres govern the power and gain controls, complementing the fascia-mounted volume control/input selector.
Anni is powered by a 15 V external power supply and benefits from a 12 V DC output, capable of powering the Qutest DAC and Huei phono stage when used with the new Qutest range power adaptor (supplied).
The Chord Anni is priced at $1,695 and is available to pre-order from Audio46.
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