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Chord Electronics 2go
2go is a high-performance streamer/server that transforms the Hugo 2 DAC into a fully featured Wi-Fi- and Ethernet-enabled device with up to 4 TB of solid-state library playback, bringing the proven sound quality benefits of our award-winning Hugo 2 DAC technology to network audio.
2go benefits from 2x 2 TB-rated microSD card slots for digital storage and playback, enabling Hugo 2 as a high-capacity digital music server (using MPD), in addition to its music streaming abilities. Crucially, when using 2go with Hugo 2, (once charged) all forms of digital playback can benefit from battery power alone, negating the need for external power supplies for the ultimate in purist audio.
2go contains highly advanced miniaturised electronic engineering that, in keeping with all our amplifiers and DACs, uses proprietary British technology. Adding 2go to Hugo 2, creates the most sonically advanced compact music streamer available today.
Wireless convenience (2.4GHz Wi-Fi and A2DP Bluetooth® wireless technology) combine with the stability and performance of wired (Gigabit) Ethernet connectivity, the latter offering set-up-free plug-and-play operation. 2go is also Roon Ready, offers gapless audio and DoP/Bit Perfect support, as well as being fully DLNA-compliant (server/renderer) and AirPlay-ready.
A key feature of 2go is its auto-switching input function: every audio interface is always on, therefore switching between inputs is as easy as hitting ‘play’ on the chosen control point app; 2go convenience switches between all its inputs automatically, giving a seamless user experience when playing music from different sources or even streaming services.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Chord Electronics is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
‘Plays with Audirvāna’ hardware products are certified to play music from Audirvāna software over USB or network with the best level of integration and audio performance.
Key Features
Setup and configuration via Gofigure iOS/Android app
Battery or desktop mode operation
10 hrs (approx) playback via internal battery
Super fast triple-core audio processor
Long range WiFi (2.4GHz) streaming
Gigabit ethernet connectivity
Bluetooth® wireless technology
Airplay playback
2x Micro SD storage (up-to 4TB)
Roon ready
DLNA streamer/server
Stream internet radio
Up-to 768kHz playback
Up-to DSD 256 playback
DSD via DoP
Automatic playback mode switching
Secure docking and locking mechanism
Gapless playback
Solid CNC machined chassis
Included Accessories
Get started with 2go guide
Safety instructions
Drawstring bag
Micro USB to Type-A USB cable
Ethernet cable
2x locating screws
Allen key
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Chord 2go — portable streamer/server for Hugo 2
The Chord Electronics 2go transforms the Hugo 2 into a pocketable, high‑resolution network player and onboard library server. Reviewers from HiFi News, The Ear and What Hi‑Fi? praise its stunning detail and clarity, three‑dimensional imaging and confident bass definition when paired with Hugo 2 or via the optional 2yu interface. Technical chops include PCM to 768kHz/32‑bit, DSD256, dual micro‑SD slots (up to 4TB), Roon endpoint, DLNA/AirPlay and gigabit Ethernet—features that give Hugo 2 full network functionality. Its CNC‑machined aluminium case neatly bolts to Hugo 2 for a compact system, though users should expect to rely on third‑party control apps or Chord's GoFigure for setup. Ideal for listeners seeking a highly revealing, transportable front end that doubles as a local library server.
Pros
- Exceptionally revealing, detailed presentation with precise imaging and strong bass control when paired with Hugo 2.
- Broad format and connectivity support—PCM to 768kHz/32‑bit, DSD256, Roon endpoint, DLNA/AirPlay, gigabit Ethernet and dual micro‑SD slots (up to 4TB)—making it a versatile network front end and server.
- Premium, compact build and bolt‑on mechanical integration with Hugo 2 (CNC‑machined aluminium) yields a neat, transportable high‑end package.
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Cons
- GoFigure app and setup can be fiddly and occasionally unstable; many users rely on third‑party UPnP/Roon apps for daily playback.
- No local display or extensive onboard controls—operation depends on a smartphone for most tasks.
- No USB data passthrough to other DACs without adding the 2yu or unbolting the unit, which can be inconvenient for multi‑system users.
Sound Quality
94/100
Multiple reviewers praise the 2go when paired with Hugo 2 as extremely revealing and musically engaging: 'stunning detail and clarity' (What Hi‑Fi?), 'crispness and detail... allied to fine bass weight and definition' (HiFi News), and 'surprisingly spacious and layered image' (The Ear). Reviews consistently describe strong detail retrieval, coherent timing and three‑dimensional presentation, with the unit enabling Hugo 2 to show its full potential rather than imposing an unwanted signature.
Digital Signal Integrity
90/100
Reviewers note explicit technical measures: support to 32‑bit/768kHz PCM and DSD256, an integrated sample‑rate converter and a 'jitter‑suppressing PLL' (HiFi News). The 2go's processor and jitter suppression are credited with delivering signal quality close to direct USB into Hugo 2 (The Ear), indicating robust reclocking/jitter control even if reviewers do not cite OCXO/word‑clock hardware or external master clock options.
Streaming Software
84/100
Functionality is strong (Roon endpoint, DLNA/UPnP, AirPlay, Tidal/Qobuz access) but reviewers caution the GoFigure app is less polished and sometimes unreliable: crashes and setup Bluetooth hiccups were reported (What Hi‑Fi?, The Ear), and Chord relies on third‑party playback apps (mconnect, etc.) rather than a dedicated, polished UPnP player. Good protocol/service support but software UX is mixed.
Build Quality
92/100
All reviews praise the CNC‑machined aluminium casework and premium construction: 'intricately machined aluminium', 'machined‑from‑solid aluminium casework' (The Ear, HiFi News, What Hi‑Fi?). The compact, well‑finished chassis and strong mechanical fit to Hugo 2 support a high build score; reviewers only note the absence of a front display as a usability caveat, not a flaw in construction.
Features Connectivity
92/100
Baseline feature set is strong: Gigabit Ethernet (+2), Wi‑Fi 2.4GHz (+1), dedicated USB audio signal output to Hugo 2 (+2), two expandable microSD slots for up to 4TB (+2 +1), internal storage capability (+2), Roon endpoint support (+2), UPnP/DLNA server/render (+1), and native PCM support up to 768kHz (+1). This combination yields a very well‑featured portable server/streamer suited for both local and networked use.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewers frame the 2go (when paired with Hugo 2) as a premium but justifiable package: described as a 'persuasive pairing' and a 'viable, pocketable alternative' (HiFi News), and 'one of the most capable music streamers we've heard' (What Hi‑Fi?). The combined price (~£2,800 cited by The Ear) is high, but reviewers repeatedly suggest the sonic performance and versatility justify the premium, placing it squarely in the 'justified premium' value tier.
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