UK audio manufacturer Chord Electronics will debut the new upscaler “Quartet” and top-tier phonostage “ULTIMA PHONOSTAGE” at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show in late February 2026.
Quartet Upscaler
The Quartet is positioned by Chord Electronics as their “most ambitious digital audio project,” an FPGA-based upscaler in a 2-box configuration completed after 8 years of development.
Key Features
- FPGA Configuration: 5× 200T FPGA processors
- Processing Power: 5× their flagship DAC “DAVE”
- Custom Code: Over 2 million lines of custom code enabling transient-timing reconstruction
- EQ Function: 108bit/705.6kHz & 768kHz lossless EQ, 10-band shelf adjustment
The Quartet aims to fundamentally improve timing accuracy and dynamic expression of digital sources, designed for use with existing DAC systems.
ULTIMA PHONOSTAGE
The ULTIMA PHONOSTAGE is Chord Electronics’ first top-tier phonostage in approximately 40 years. Featuring dual-mono design, it supports up to three tonearms/turntables.
Key Features
- Design: Dual-mono configuration
- Inputs: 3 inputs (supports 3 tonearms/turntables)
- Individual Settings: Each input independently configurable, settings retained after power-off
- Protection: Auto gain reduction system protects circuitry from excessive signals such as accidental arm drops
Pricing & Availability
Pricing for both products not yet announced. Quartet’s official release is scheduled for the second half of 2026.
Bristol Hi-Fi Show Exhibition
At Bristol Hi-Fi Show, demonstrations will be held in the Kent-based demo space “SS Great Britain 1 Suite” with a system featuring Wilson Audio Sabrina speakers.