Chord Electronics’ digital audio consultant Rob Watts takes us on a deep dive into the challenges of reproducing lifelike sound from 16-bit/44.1kHz PCM digital audio (CD quality music from compact discs or streaming) over his 40+ year career. From his groundbreaking DAC designs priced from $650 to $20,000, to why off-the-shelf chips can’t compete, Rob explains how his unique approach to D/A (digital to analog) conversion goes beyond conventional measurement-based audio engineering. He also previews Chord’s next flagship product, the Quartet M Scaler, which will build on the Hugo M Scaler, and shares his thoughts on DSD, the importance of cables, and hidden sonic factors like RF and power supply issues. Even 45 years after the CD’s debut, there’s still high-resolution audio left to uncover.
Sponsor: Thank you to our sponsor SVS for your support.
This episode was recorded on October 28, 2025.
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On the Panel:
- Rob Watts, Digital Audio Consultant, Chord Electronics
- Brian Mitchell, eCoustics Founder
Where to buy Chord DACs:
- Chord Mojo 2 – $650 at Audio Advice
- Chord Qutest – $1,625 at Audio Advice
- Chord Hugo 2 – $2,595 at Audio Advice
- Chord Hugo TT2 – $5,100 at Audio Advice
- Chord Hugo M Scaler – $4,650 at Audio Advice
- Chord Dave – $14,900
Related Links:
- WTF is a DAC?
- WTF is Hi-Res Audio (High Resolution Audio)?
- Chord Mojo 2 (2025 model) Gets USB-C Charging and 4.4mm Socket
- Chord Mojo 2 (2022 model) Review
- The Latest DAC News and Reviews
Related Podcasts:
- Podcast: Is Hi-Res Audio More Hype Than Reality? w/ Dr. Mark Waldrep
- Podcast: Qobuz Connect with David Solomon
- Podcast: Well Made Music & DSD?
Credits:
- Original intro music by The Arc of All.
- Voice Over Provided by Todd Harrell of SSP Unlimited.
- Production by Mitch Anderson, Black Circle Studios.
