If you’re interested in desktop audio, this new product introduction from Chord is definitely worth a listen. The Chord Anni Desktop Integrated Amplifier completes the circle for the British manufacturer adding an amplifier capable of driving far more loudspeakers than its modest power rating would suggest.
Capable of driving both headphones and compact loudspeakers, the Qutest-sized Anni benefits from the company’s proprietary ULTIMA circuit topology and is perfectly positioned 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 which we reviewed in August.
As a system, the Qutest components provide an unrivalled desktop audio solution, offering class-leading digital and analogue technologies for the modern music lover. The company’s compact QSS (Qutest Stand System) modular equipment rack provides the perfect support, too.
Anni offers Chord Electronics’ recently announced dual-feed-forward error-correction circuit topology whether using headphones or compact loudspeakers. Anni’s advanced technology allows it to drive any headphone load, error-monitored and compensated amplification at all times.
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.
10 watts might not seem like a lot of power, but in a desktop scenario with high sensitivity loudspeakers — you are unlikely to require a lot of power.
A 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 aluminium 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 volt 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).
Price and Availability
Chord Anni is shipping now (black only); $1,795 (US) / £1,195 (UK).
Chord Qutest DAC – $1,795 at Audio46
Chord Huei Phono Stage – $1,495 at Audio46
