Chord Hugo TT 2 User manual

Chord Electronics
Product Communication | English
The Pumphouse, Farleigh Lane, East Farleigh, Kent, ME16 9NB. Great Britain.
[phone]
[e-mail]
chordelectronics.co.uk
Hugo TT 2
Manual
-
V.1.3

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
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2 // 35
Contents 0.0
1.0 Safety instructions 07
1.1 Introduction 08
1.2 Protection against liquids & heat 09
1.3 Dismantling & Radio 10
Frequency interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment 11
2.0 Warranty 13
2.1 Warranty period & registering 14
your purchase
2.2 Making a claim & warranty exclusions 15
0.0 Contents
3.0 Getting to know Hugo TT 2 17
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2 & Drivers 18
3.2 The front panel 20
3.3 The top panel 21
3.4 The rear panel 22
3.5 The remote control 23
4.0 Setting up Hugo TT 2 25
4.1 Placement 26
4.2 Connecting Hugo TT 2 to equipment 27
& Hugo TT 2 power-on sequence
5.0 How to navigate the menus 29
5.1 The screen & navigating the menu 30
5.2 The volume ball & its colours 31
and the Sample rate indicator
6.0 Gain range and Input 33
6.1 Gain range 34
6.2 Input 35
7.0 Playback modes 37
7.1 Playback modes 38
7.2 Headphone mode 39
7.3 Amplification mode 40
7.4 DAC mode 41
8.0 Special Features 43
8.1 Crossfeed (XFD) & Filters (FIL) 44
8.2 Display dimming, settings memory, 45
supercapacitors & galvanic isolation
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection against liquids & heat
1.3 Dismantling & Radio Frequency interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment
1.0 Safety
instructions
Safety instructions 1.0
3 // 35

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
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4 // 35
Introduction 1.1
The Hugo TT 2 is an
incredibly powerful
and versatile digital-
to-analogue converter and pre/
headphone amplifier.
Before operation, we strongly
advise you read this User Manual
thoroughly.
We also recommend that you
store this User Manual, along with
your original receipt of purchase,
in a safe place should you require
assistance in the future.
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection against
liquids & heat
1.3 Dismantling & radio frequency
interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Protection against
liquids & heat
1.2
The Hugo TT 2 is not
protected against liquids
of any kind. Never place
containers of liquid on Hugo
TT 2. Never allow Hugo TT 2 to
come into contact with moisture
or liquids; doing so could result
in electrocution or damage to the
Hugo TT 2’s internal circuitry.
Be aware that liquids, including
water that has dried, can leave
minerals that can aect the
PCB and other components,
which could eventually lead to
oxidisation and short-circuiting.
If the Hugo TT 2 comes into
contact with moisture or liquids,
immediately disconnect from
the mains power supply, and
connected equipment, and
contact Chord Electronics for
further advice.
The Hugo TT 2 has
internal thermal
protection which will
shut down the unit in the event
of excessive temperatures being
reached. Never operate the Hugo
TT 2 near sources of heat or
naked flames as this will decrease
the lifespan of the internal
components.
It is advised that you do not
operate the Hugo TT 2 in an
area of direct sunlight or on top
of significant heat- producing
devices.
Please be aware that it is
entirely normal for the Hugo TT
2 to become warm during use,
particularly within a stacked
configuration.
If you are concerned about the
temperatures, please switch
the device o using the front
panel or consider a dierent
placement.
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection against
liquids & heat
1.3 Dismantling & radio frequency
interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment
5 // 35

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
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6 // 35
There are no user-
serviceable components
within the Hugo TT 2
or its power supply. Dangerous
voltages/currents exist within
the Hugo TT 2 and its power
supply, posing a severe risk of
electrocution and/or fire.
Never attempt to
open, dismantle or
apply internal third-
party devices to it or insert
anything other than the listed
interconnects or headphone
adapters within this user manual.
If the Hugo TT 2 develops a
fault or the casework becomes
damaged, immediately
disconnect from the mains
power supply and connected
equipment, and contact Chord
Electronics for further advice.
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection against
liquids & heat
1.3 Dismantling & radio frequency
interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment
Dismantling & radio
frequency interference
1.3
With a thick, solid aluminium
chassis, the Hugo TT 2’s
casework largely protects the
sensitive internal circuitry from
radio frequency interference.
However, for optimal
performance, it is recommended
that the following points are
observed:
1. Consider placing the
Hugo away
from wireless routers.
2. Separate the Hugo TT
2 from amplifiers using
toroidal transformers.
3. Operate mobile
phones at a distance to
avoid interference.
Although the Hugo TT
2 is largely shielded,
it can generate radio
frequency interference that
may have an eect on radio and
television reception.
If this occurs, please reconsider
your placement.
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Before connecting the Hugo TT
2 to any equipment, consult the
manufacturer’s user guide to
confirm compatibility.
When connecting the Hugo TT
2 to any equipment please make
sure that all devices are o,
including the Hugo TT 2.
Once connected, switch all
equipment on starting with
the source and ending with the
amplification.
Initially, operate the any
connected equipment on its
lowest gain setting and lowest
volume setting, gently increasing
to a comfortable listening level.
Never operate connected
equipment to the Hugo TT
2 at excessive sound levels;
permanent hearing damage and
loss can occur.
The included 15V 4000mA
power supply simply plugs into
the Hugo TT 2.
If the power supply is
prematurely disconnected Hugo
TT 2 may still remain active for
up to 15 seconds, however, this
may cause damage to connected
equipment.
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection against
liquids & heat
1.3 Dismantling & radio frequency
interference
1.4 Connecting your equipment
Connecting your equipment 1.4
Never disconnect the
power cable during
operation. Only
disconnect when Hugo TT
2 is o. If the power cable
is disconnected during
o peration there is a risk
of damage to connected
equipment.
7 // 35

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
2.1 Warranty period & registering your purchase
2.2 Making a claim & warranty exclusions
2.0 Warranty
Warranty 2.0
8 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
9 // 35
2.1 Warranty period & registering
your purchase
2.2 Making a claim & warranty
exclusions
Warranty period & registering
your purchase
2.1
At point of sale, Chord
Electronics Ltd. provides Hugo
TT 2 with a comprehensive
three-year warranty* which
covers defects in materials and
workmanship through fair wear
and tear. The warranty will be
void if any other PSU other than
that supplied is used.
*The warranty is transferable
with proof of purchase, however,
warranty on ex-demonstration
units begins from the retailer‘s
date of purchase.
Please use the form
below to record the
details of your purchase
in the event that these are
required at a later date, we
further advise that all purchases
are registered with Chord
Electronics at: chordelectronics.
co.uk/register-product/
RETAILER:
PURCHASE PRICE:
UNIT COLOUR:
DATE OF PURCHASE:
TRANSACTION ID:

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
In the unlikely event of a
claim, you must provide Chord
Electronics with the details of
the claim, including your original
proof of purchase and serial
number in order to validate the
nature of the repair.
Upon receipt, Chord Electronics
will make an assessment within
30 days and provide a reasonable
solution.
All warranty repairs must be
carried out by Chord Electronics
or an approved service centre to
guarantee the quality and safety
of the repair.
WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS: The
warranty does not cover connected
equipment, personal injury or
development natural patina of the
metalwork and will be null and void
if the following is applied: wilful
neglect; modification or tampering
of the product; improper use of the
product; acts of God; damage caused
by a connected device; mechanical
shock; fire or application of excessive
heat or repair/modification by a non-
authorised third-party vendor.
2.1 Warranty period & registering
your purchase
2.2 Making a claim & warranty
exclusions
Making a claim
& warranty exclusions
2.2
10 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2 & drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
3.0 Getting to know
Hugo TT 2
Getting to know
Hugo TT 2
3.0
11 // 35

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
The Hugo TT 2 is an
extraordinarily powerful
leading-edge DAC/preamplifier/
headphone amplifier featuring
multi-award-winning FPGA
technology plus supercapacitor
energy storage.
With the Hugo TT 2 the
possibilities are endless.
To get the very most out of the
device for many years ahead, we
recommend familiarising yourself
with this user manual.
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2
& drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
Getting to know Hugo TT 2 &
drivers
3.1
12 // 35
DRIVERS: The Hugo
TT 2 is driverless with
Mac OS X and Linux
operating systems and
only requires drivers
for Windows.
These can be found on
the product page at:
chordelectronics.co.uk
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Whilst an IR remote control
is supplied, the front panel of
the Hugo TT 2 is the main user
interface and can entirely control
all user-configurable options,
inputs and volume.
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2
& drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
The front panel 3.2
13 // 35
There are an additional
three headphone outputs
which require no additional
amplification for headphones up
to and exceeding 800Ω.
Screen
Volume wheel
On/O
Menu set button
3.5mm headphone jack ¼˝ headphone jack
Menu selection button
¼˝ headphone jack

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
In addition to the front panel
features, the top panel of the
device gives visual feedback for
the sample rate of the incoming
audio file being played using a
polychromatic scale illuminated
via the looking glass.
The acrylic portion of the top-
panel is not only an attractive
detail, but houses the aerial
for high-resolution Bluetooth
playback.
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2
& drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
The top panel 3.3
14 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
The rear panel oers a
comprehensive connectivity
suite, featuring both standard
connections and those which
are used with other Chord
Electronics’ devices.
When installing any cable, you
must make sure that they securly
click into place, especially
optical.
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2
& drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
The rear panel 3.4
15 // 35
WARNING: Do not
use any other power
supply other than
that supplied. Doing so will
invalidate your warranty.
Left DX (BNC)
digital output
BNC 1
digital input
USB
digital input
BNC 2
digital input
Optical 1
digital input
DC 15V Input Right XLR
analogue output
Left RCA
analogue output
Right DX (BNC)
digital output
Right RCA
analogue output
Left XLR
analogue output
Optical 2
digital input

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
For convenience, a branded
infra-red remote control is
included with the device.
The remote will operate up to a
distance of 10 metres with clear
line-of-sight to the infra-red
receiver within Hugo TT 2, which
is located below the looking
glass.
For best operation, do not
operate the Hugo TT 2 within a
cabinet or place other materials/
devices on top of the device.
Selecting optical input via
remote: A single press of the OPT
button will select the previously
selected optical input. A longer
press of 3-seconds will switch to
the next optical input.
3.1 Getting to know Hugo TT 2
& drivers
3.2 The front panel
3.3 The top panel
3.4 The rear panel
3.5 The remote control
The remote control 3.5
16 // 35
NOTE: Please only
insert AAA batteries
into the IR remote
control and observe the
correct orientation as
indicated within the remote
control. Failure to do so
could result in non-operation
or battery leakage.
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
4.1 Placement
4.2 Connecting Hugo TT 2 to equipment
& Hugo TT 2 power-on sequence
4.0 Setting up
Hugo TT 2
Setting up
Hugo TT 2
4.0
17 // 35
On/o
Select USB
input
Select optical
input (press and hold)
Select BNC
coax 2 input
Increase volume
Mute playback
Increase volume
Cycle through
filter type
Select Bluetooth
input
Cycle through
crossfeed
Select BNC
coax 1 input
Cycle through
LED brightness

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Whilst the Hugo TT 2 will
operate normally within a stack
of other Chord Electronics’
Table Top (TT) components, it is
recommended that the device is
allowed to
‘breathe’.
Allocating 10cm of space around
it to convection-cool during
operation is advised.
As the infra-red remote
control requires a direct
line of sight to the
viewing portal, avoid placing
objects on top of the Hugo TT 2
or placing it within enclosures.
4.1 Placement 4.2 Connecting Hugo TT 2
to equipment & power-on
sequence
Placement 4.1
18 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
When connecting the Hugo TT
2 to equipment within the signal
path, ensure all devices are
switched o.
It is recommended that once
all equipment is properly
connected, that the volume
setting is operated to its lowest
setting.
Then slowly begin raising to
a comfortable listening level.
Always observe partnering
manufacturers’ guidelines.
4.1 Placement 4.2 Connecting Hugo TT 2
to equipment & power-on
sequence
Connecting an input to Hugo M
Scaler & input selection
4.2
19 // 35
POWER ON SEQUENCE:
When switching on
Hugo TT 2, it will initially
charge the super-caps, with the
display showing CHG.
Then it will enter the initialisation
phase, displaying all the settings,
and configuring the analogue
outputs.
Music playback is not available
during initialisation.
During the initialisation phase,
the Hugo TT 2’s sample rate
indicator will cycle through a
series of colours.
During this period,
do not initiate music
playback.
RIGHT LEFT
XLR
XLR
MENU SET

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
5.1 The screen & navigating the menu
5.2 The volume ball & its colours and the Sample rate indicator
5.0 How to navigate
the menus
How to navigate the menus 5.0
20 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
THE SCREEN:
For optimal audio
performance, the screen
of Hugo TT 2 is designed to time
out 10-seconds after a period of
inactivity. It will be reactivated
after a button is pressed on the
remote control, or after a menu
button is pressed.
The sample rate will continue to
illuminate, along with the volume
ball unless amplification mode
has been activated.
5.1 The screen & navigating
the menu
5.2 The volume ball & its colours
and the sample rate indicator
The screen & navigating
the menu
5.1
21 // 35
THE MENU: To advance your
way through the menu of Hugo
TT 2 you may press the ‘MENU’
button until your chosen setting
is displayed. To cycle through the
available settings please press
the ‘SET’ button.
Once the ‘SET’ button is pressed,
you do not have to press any
other button, the mode will be
activated.
MENU SET

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
VOLUME: The volume ball on the
front of the unit is responsible
for attenuating the signal and
providing visual feedback of the
range that it is configured to.
Hugo TT 2 will remember your
previously used volume settings
if the unit is switched o.
To reduce the level lightly press
and roll the ball to the left, and
to raise the level lightly press and
roll the ball to the right.
Whilst changing the volume the
exact level will be displayed on
the screen, and the colour of
the ball will change through a
polychromatic scale as
pictured below.
5.1 The screen & navigating
the menu
5.2 The volume ball & its colours
and the sample rate indicator
The Volume ball & its colours
and the Sample rate indicator
5.2
22 // 35
SAMPLE RATE INDICATOR:
During playback, the sample rate
will be indicated temporarily on
the screen and within the viewing
glass which can be found on the
top of Hugo TT 2.
Hugo TT 2 is capable of playing
files up to 768kHz 32-bit and
DSD 512. This is indicated by the
following colours:
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
6.1 Gain range
6.2 Input
6.0 Gain range
and input
Gain range and input 6.0
23 // 35
NOT SEEING A
CHANGE IN COLOUR
FOR SAMPLE RATE?
If you are unable to see the
associated change during
playback, this is due to your
music playback application,
or audio sample rate
settings, or not sending the
appropriate sample rate
through to Hugo TT 2.
Please consult your music
playback application user
manual for more information.
Sample frequencies in kHz
44.1 48 88.2 96 176.4 192 352.8 384 705.6 768 DSD
NOTE: Whilst in DAC mode the volume ball
will not illuminate. This is due to the fact that
the output is at a fixed level.
Min Max

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Hugo TT 2 has a variety
of settings to suit various
equipment and environments.
Please take a moment to
familiarise yourself with their
meanings and how they may
impact your experience.
Before connecting Hugo TT 2
to any equipment it is highly
recommended that you manually
configure the device to operate
in low gain range. The gain
ranges are represented as LO G
(low gain) or HI G (high gain).
Low gain is -9dB lower, or times
0.35. The output voltage at both
gain levels is 4.3 V RMS at 0dB.
6.1 Gain range 6.2 Input
Gain range 6.1
24 // 35
Warning: Hugo TT 2 is
capable of delivering
huge amounts of output
power whilst in this mode never
dramatically increase volume.
Doing so could be a risk to your
equipment and your hearing!
Gain range is only available when
Amplification, or Headphone
mode is selected, as when DAC
mode is enabled the option will
send a fixed 2.5 V RMS output
and not oer any user selectable
range.
When changing from GAIN mode
the outputs are muted for 16
seconds as the analogue is re-
initialised. The display will show
the mode set during this period.
When the volume is displayed,
then H (high gain) L (low gain)
is shown on the display together
with the volume setting in dB.
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Hugo TT 2 has a total of 6x
digital inputs, 1x digital outputs
and 5x analogue outputs (not
independently controlled).
You can use the menu to
navigate through these inputs,
but please use the table below
to familiarise yourself with the
available sample rates:
6.1 Gain range 6.2 Input
Inputs, sample rates & DSD
labeling
6.2
25 // 35
Where DSD is played back, Hugo
TT 2 will display the following:
DSD 1 = DSD 64
DSD 2 = DSD 128
DSD 4 = DSD 256
DSD 8 = DSD 512
USB* 44.1kHz to 768kHz
16bit to 32bit – DSD 64 to DSD 256 (DoP interface), 16bit to
32bit - DSD 64 to DSD 512 (native USB interface)
BNC 1 44.1kHz to 384kHz
16bit to 24bit
BNC 2 44.1kHz to 384kHz
16bit to 24bit
Optical 1 44.1kHz to 192kHz
16bit to 24bit
Optical 2 44.1kHz to 192kHz
24bit
Bluetooth APTX
Dual BNC** Special operation – DBNC: 88.2kHz to 768kHz 24bit
*USB is natively compatible with all Mac OS X and Linux machines without the use of
drivers. Windows machines may require a driver, available on the Chord Electronics
website.
**Dual BNC is reserved for special operation with Chord Electronics partnering
products. Dual BNC does not appear within the menu by default, it will only appear
when successfully connected to a partnering product.

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
7.1 Playback modes
7.2 Headphone mode
7.3 Amplification mode
7.4 DAC mode
7.0 Playback
modes
Playback modes 7.0
26 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Hugo TT 2 has three user-
selectable modes tailored to
the intended operation for
the device: Headphone mode,
Amplification mode and DAC
mode.
When headphones are
connected to Hugo TT 2, for
protection, the device will enter
Headphone Mode where only the
headphone outputs are enabled.
It will not be possible to manually
deselect this; only removing the
headphones will disengage this
mode.
7.1 Playback modes
7.2 Headphone mode
7.3 Amplification mode
7.4 DAC mode
Playback modes 7.1
27 // 35
When headphones are
disconnected, it is possible to
navigate between Amplification
Mode or DAC Mode by pressing
the ‘MENU’ button found on the
front panel of the device until
either ‘AMP’ or ‘DAC’ is displayed.
Pressing ‘SET’ will cycle between
and engage each mode.
WARNING: For
the protection of
your hearing and
equipment, please do not
navigate between the
AMP and DAC without
disconnecting Hugo TT 2
from any other device or a
source of music.
Headphone mode DAC mode Amplification mode

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
When the Hugo TT 2 detects that
headphones have been inserted
into one of the three front-panel
connectors, the device will enter
Headphone Mode, which is for
headphone listening only.
When this mode is entered, the
Hugo TT 2 will remember the
last-used settings (including
volume) and will eortlessly drive
any impedance headphones
including but not limited to 16Ω
to 800Ωs, without the need for
an external headphone amplifier.
7.1 Playback modes
7.2 Headphone mode
7.3 Amplification mode
7.4 DAC mode
Headphone mode 7. 2
28 // 35
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
Providing headphones are not
connected to the Hugo TT 2,
Amplification Mode can be
manually engaged.
Amplification Mode utilises the
Hugo TT 2’s digital preamplifier,
enabling the volume/output level
to be controlled via the volume
wheel, or remote control.
Please note that once the Hugo
7.1 Playback modes
7.2 Headphone mode
7.3 Amplification mode
7.4 DAC mode
Amplification mode 7.3
29 // 35
In most circumstances, where
a simple attenuation of the 3V
line-level signal is required to
match a preamplifier, or power
amplifier, you must operate the
Hugo TT 2 in Low Gain mode and
significantly reduce the volume
before raising to a comfortable
listening level.
.
TT 2 enters Amplification Mode,
8W on RCA and 20W on XLR, the
rated spec is 7W/8 RCA and 18/8
(XLR balanced).
This enormous power reserve is
available thanks to a very high
power discrete output stage
and super-caps to supply huge
dynamic currents.
WARNING For your
protection, when
headphones are
connected to the Hugo
TT 2, you will be unable to
manually exit Headphone
mode until they are
disconnected.
MENU SET
WARNING: For
the protection of
your hearing and
equipment, please do not
navigate between the
AMP and DAC without
disconnecting Hugo TT 2
from any other device or a
source of music.

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
With headphones disconnected,
DAC Mode is selectable. DAC
Mode can be employed when
used within a conventional
audio system, where an external
amplifier is present. When this
mode is selected, a 2.5V RMS
line-level signal will be present on
all outputs.
As the output level is fixed within
DAC Mode, the Volume ball (and
remote control volume) will no
longer respond and will no longer
illuminate.
7.1 Playback modes
7.2 Headphone mode
7.3 Amplification mode
7.4 DAC mode
DAC mode 7.4
30 // 35
When changing from DAC/AMP
mode the outputs are muted for
16 seconds as the analogue is re-
initial-ised. The display will show
the mode set during this period.
Before connecting the Hugo
TT 2 to other components,
for example a preamplifier or
amplifier, please consult the
respective user manuals, as they
may require a signal less than
2.5V RMS to provide optimum
performance. If you require a
line-level signal, less than 2.5V,
please use Amplification Mode in
low gain mode and attenuate the
signal as appropriate.
MENU SET
NOTE: As the output
level is fixed on this
mode, the volume ball
will become unresponsive
and will no longer illuminate.
WARNING: Never
connect any device
incapable of
attenuating a line level signal
to Hugo TT 2 in DAC Mode.
Doing so could result in
permanent damage to any
connected equipment, along
with your hearing.
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
8.1 Crossfeed (XFD) & Filters (FIL)
8.2 Display dimming, settings memory,
supercapacitors & galvanic isolation
8.3 Display messages
8.0 Special
features
Special features 8.0
31 // 35

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
DISPLAY DIMMING: For darker
environments, bright LEDs may
present a challenge, therefore,
Hugo TT 2 oers two brightness
settings that can be toggled
between within the settings
menu;
Full – DIM1: Absolute brightness,
designed for well-lit rooms.
Low – DIM2: Low brightness,
perfect for dimly lit
environments.
8.1 Crossfeed (XFD) & Filters (FIL)
8.2 Display dimming,
settings memory,
supercapacitors & galvanic
isolation
8.3 Display messages
Display dimming, settings
memory, supercapacitors
& galvanic isolation
8.2
33 // 35
GALVANIC ISOLATION:
Galvanic isolation
involves isolating the
power rails of the data USB input,
allowing for greater sonic perfor-
mance. The Hugo TT 2 features
a Class 2 Type-B USB input with
this protection. No special at-
tention or cables are required to
allow it to however, the USB +5V
VBUS must be connected and
powered, as the USB decoder
device is powered from this line.
SETTINGS MEMORY: The
Hugo TT 2 remembers
previous settings, includ-
ing volume and filters, even when
powered down (or with the power
supply removed). You do not have
to perform any special actions.
SUPERCAPACITOR EN-
ERGY STORAGE:
The Hugo TT 2 uses
a bank of six supercapacitors
within the power supply unit. The
supercapacitors are capable of
delivering huge linear dynamic
currents with a peak output of 5A
and 9.3V RMS.
Therefore, please respect the
output power of Hugo TT 2 and,
once all equipment is correctly
connected, gently increase the
volume until sucient. Never
overload a device with power.
Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
CROSSFEED: Crossfeed is a form
of digital processing that blends
the left and right channels of a
stereo recording to achieve a
speaker-like presentation during
headphone-listening. It is also
a separately configured option
when not in Headphone Mode.
The Hugo TT 2 has four available
modes of Crossfeed, shown as
XFD
on the display:
XFD0: No crossfeed.
XFD1: Minimal crossfeed.
XFD2: Moderate crossfeed.
XFD3: Broad crossfeed.
8.1 Crossfeed (XFD) & Filters (FIL)
8.2 Display dimming,
settings memory,
supercapacitors & galvanic
isolation
8.3 Display messages
Crossfeed (XFD)
and Filters (FIL)
8.1
32 // 35
FILTER: The Hugo TT 2 has the
ability to alter the way in which
it processes and filters the
incoming audio data, which, in
turn, has a multi-faceted eect
on the presentation of audio.
These modes can be especially
useful with DSD recordings.
FIL1 – Incisive neutral: the default
filtering characteristic; the
absolute reference.
FIL2 – Incisive neutral with
HF roll-o: contains the
same fundamental filtering
characteristics of FIL1, however,
the HF filter is intended to
remove the HF noise from HD
(88.2 to 768 kHz) recordings.
FIL3 – Warm: a secondary
filtering characteristic for the
Hugo TT 2 with a subtle warming
tonality.
FIL4 – Warm with HF roll-o:
contains the same fundamental
filtering characteristics of FIL3,
however, the HF filter is intended
to remove the HF noise from HD
(88.2 to 768 kHz) recordings.
Absoloute brightness
Low brightness

Chord Electronics
Hugo TT 2 | Manual
_
During use of Hugo TT 2 you may
encounter a number of on-screen
display messages. Please use the
graph to discover their meanings.
8.1 Crossfeed (XFD) & Filters (FIL)
8.2 Display dimming,
settings memory,
supercapacitors & galvanic
isolation
8.3 Display messages
Display messages 8.3
34 // 35
P LO Power input has too low voltage
P HI Power input has too high voltage
OT L Over temperature left - check cabling for short circuits
OT R Over temperature right - check cabling for short circuits
OT F The FPGA has exceeded maximum temperature - please improve
ventilation
DC L DC has been detected on digital input, left. If present with no digital
source a fault has been found.
DC R DC has been detected on digital input, left. If present with no digital
source a fault has been found.
CHG Hugo TT 2 is charging the super-capacitors
STBY Hugo TT 2 is entering standby mode
HP Headphone mode is entered
DAC DAC mode is entered
DSD1 DSD 64 is playing back
DSD 2 DSD 128 is playing back
DSD 4 DSD 256 is playing back
DSD 8 DSD 512 is playing back