Introducing the Suzi: Chord Electronics' Modular Amplifier System
Read Time: Approx. 9 min.
Transform your Hugo 2 & 2GO into a Streaming Hi-Fi Amplifier
Meet the Suzi–Chord Electronics' new modular amplifier system that transforms how you think about building and expanding your hi-fi setup. The stars of the show? The Suzi Pre, Phono stage Preamplifier/Headphone Amp, and the Suzi Amp, Modular Stereo Power Amplifier.
While the two amps can be used separately, their true potential is reached when they're configured together as one cohesive system. Much like the Chord Hugo 2 and 2GO or Mojo 2 and POLY, the Suzi Amps can be stacked and aligned perfectly to create a full-fledged integrated amplifier. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Chord Electronics has maximized the Suzi Power Amp's versatility by making it configurable with the Hugo 2 DAC/Amp and 2GO–plus several other configurations.
The Suzi Pre and Suzi Power aren't just two new amps with a compact design to hit the market–they're two incredibly flexible components that evolve with you and your system. Chord Electronics has successfully reimagined what a small, desktop hi-fi system can achieve.
Meet the Suzi
The Chord Electronics Suzi system centers around two exceptional components: The Suzi Pre, Phono-stage Preamplifier/Headphone Amplifier, and the Suzi Amp, Modular Stereo Power Amplifier. As a part of the renowned Hugo series, these modular and stackable components can work independently or together, delivering ultra-clean, distortion-free amplification that embodies the Chord sound.
Chord Electronics Suzi Preamplifier
For turntable enthusiasts seeking an all-analogue solution, headphone listeners requiring serious amplification, audiophiles wanting a standalone preamp for active speakers, and anyone building a compact, classic hi-fi system.
The Chord Suzi Pre is a compact, three-input preamplifier with a built-in MM/MC phono stage and headphone amplifier. With two preamp gain options (high and low) and three load options for MC cartridges (listed below), the Suzi Pre can serve as the phono preamp for your favorite turntable. When paired with the Suzi Power Amplifier, the component transforms into an integrated amplifier.
On the far right sits the Suzi Pre's detachable headphone adapter module. When connected to the Suzi Pre, it serves as a headphone amplifier for audiophile-grade headphones with two jacks, a 3.5mm and a 6.35mm. Although small, the headphone amplifier can successfully drive a range of headphones, including harder-to-drive models like the Sennheiser HD 800S Headphones. The Suzi Pre is complete with a remote control and a wide range of inputs and outputs on the back panel.
I/O
Front Panel (left to right)
Phono Gain Button (high and low)
Phono Impedance Button (50 ohms, 235 ohms + 47pF, 470 ohms + 47pF)
Combined Volume/Input Selector button/thumb wheel
3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs
Back Panel (left to right)
1x RCA Outputs
2x RCA Inputs (RCA Input 2, RCA Input 3)
12V DC Power Input
MM/MC Phono Input
Grounding Post
Chord Electronics Suzi Stereo Power Amplifier
For existing preamplifier owners seeking superior power amplification, Hugo 2 owners wanting a complete speaker & headphone system, streaming enthusiasts with the Hugo 2 & 2GO, and space-conscious audiophiles needing serious power and a flexible system that can evolve with their needs.
The Chord Suzi Amp is a modular stereo power amplifier delivering 30W per channel through Chord's advanced ULTIMA technology–that's more than enough to drive bookshelf speakers and full-range loudspeakers. The Suzi Amp features 4mm banana loudspeaker outputs, RCA inputs, two headphone outputs, and a remote control.
While the Suzi Power Amplifier can be used on its own with any pre-existing amplifier in your setup, its strength lies in its remarkable adaptability. It's specially designed to pair with the Suzi Pre, Hugo 2, or Hugo 2 & 2GO to form a DAC Amp or streaming Amp.
The Suzi Amp can be arranged in Four Core Configurations:
1.) Suzi Power Amplifier with a pre-existing Preamplifier
2.) Suzi Power Amplifier with the Suzi Preamplifier: An analog pre/power amp with a phono-stage and headphone out
3.) Suzi Power Amplifier with the Hugo 2 & USB Multiplexer: A DAC/ digital pre/amp (with digital preamplification and headphone out amplification).
4.) Suzi Power Amplifier with the Hugo 2 & 2GO: A streaming DAC/amp with up to 2TB MicroSD storage
Pictured Configuration: Suzi Amp, Hugo 2, and 2GO
When the Suzi Amp is paired with the Hugo 2 DAC and the 2GO Streamer, it transforms into a streaming amplifier complete with Roon Endpoint and DLNA/UPnP connectivity, plus up to 2TB of onboard storage–all courtesy of the 2GO.
For even more versatility when using the Hugo 2 and the Suzi Amp, the USB Multiplexer can be integrated in place of the 2GO. This accessory is sold separately by Chord (release date TBD as of the date of publication). The Multiplexer attaches to the Hugo 2 in place of the 2GO, adding USB-B data inputs, USB-C data inputs, and USB-C charging to the unit. The Hugo 2 automatically detects the active input, allowing for simultaneous connections.
These configurations are not made possible without the removable solid aluminum cover block on top of the Suzi Amp. This cover protects the connections used for the direct integration of the Suzi Pre and Hugo 2.
I/O
Front Panel (left to right)
Power On/Off
AV Bypass (for connection with any preamplifier)
3.5mm, 6.35mm Headphone Outputs
Back Panel (left to right)
Grounding Post
4mm Banana Speaker Outputs (R)
RCA Analog Inputs (for use with existing preamps only)
4mm Banana Speaker Outputs (L)
12V DC Power Output (for compatibility with other Chord devices)
12V Power Input
Some things to note. The headphone outputs on the Suzi Amp only work when the Suzi Pre or Hugo 2 is connected. Both headphone outputs can be used simultaneously.
The Suzi Amp can be used with other Chord products like the Qutest DAC or Mojo 2 DAC, but must be connected using cables.
On the left-hand side of the Suzi Amp is a 5V Micro USB port for the included charging bridge, which supplies power to the Hugo 2 when the Suzi Amp is powered off. For constant charging, use the 5 V charger supplied with either the Hugo 2 or 2GO.
Suzi Amplifier Configurations
As mentioned earlier, the Suzi system (Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp) can be used in five versatile configurations. While the components are sold separately and can be used without each other, you'll get the best performance when they're paired together.
Chord product owners would be remiss not to consider the Suzi Amp for native integration with the Hugo 2, 2GO, or connection via cables with the Mojo 2 or Qutest. Below is detailed information on each possible configuration to help you identify whether you need the Suzi Pre, the Suzi Amp, or both.
Pictured Configuration: Suzi Amp, Hugo 2, and 2GO
Suzi Power Amplifier with a pre-existing Preamplifier
To use the Suzi Power Amplifier with a pre-existing preamp, start by unscrewing and removing the hex bolt at the far end of the cover block of the Suzi Amp. Carefully remove it and unscrew the attached grub screw from the Suzi. Connect an existing preamp to the Suzi Amp via the RCA inputs, along with loudspeakers and power.
Once all connections are made, press play on the chosen source and slowly raise the volume on the chosen preamp. Note, when using a pre-existing preamp, the AV/BP button on the Suzi Amp must be pressed (displays blue) to select the Suzi Amp's rear RCA inputs.
Suzi Power Amplifier with the Suzi Pre Preamplifier
Adding the Suzi Pre transforms the Suzi Power Amp into an analog pre/power amplifier with a phono stage.
To integrate the Suzi Pre, remove the aluminum cover from the Suzi Amp. Disconnect and remove the detachable headphone adapter on the Suzi Pre. With all cables disconnected from the Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp, align and slide the Suzi Pre's female outputs into the Suzi Amp's male inputs.
Once connected, secure them with the supplied locking plate. Attach the respective power cables/supplies, and with all connections made, power to both units can be switched on. Note, putting the Suzi Pre in standby mode will not put the Suzi Amp on standby. The Suzi Amp has a separate standby button on the front. However, putting the Suzi Amp in standby mode will remove power from both components.
Suzi Power Amplifier with the Hugo 2 & USB Multiplexer
Adding the Hugo 2 and USB Multiplexer enables the Suzi Amp to act as a dual-input USB DAC/amplifier with USB-B data, USB-C data, and USB-C charging connections.
Attach the two screw-in locking pins supplied with the Multiplexer to the Hugo 2. Align and push the two units together, and reattach the two pins. Remove the aluminum cover block from the Suzi Amp. With power cables to the Suzi Amp disconnected, align and slide the Hugo 2/USB Multiplexer into the Suzi Amp's inputs (Hugo 2's female outputs into the Suzi Amp's male inputs). Note, as of the date of publication, the USB Multiplexer's release date has not been announced. This accessory module will be available for purchase separately.
With the two units connected, secure them with the supplied charging bridge assembly. This provides power to the Hugo 2 when the Suzi Amp is powered off. With the units secured, the Suzi Amp power cable can be attached. Once all cables and connections are made, the Suzi Amp can be switched on. Depress the Suzi Amp and Hugo 2 power buttons to make the units ready for playback.
Suzi Power Amplifier with the Hugo 2 & 2GO Streamer
Adding the Hugo 2 DAC and 2GO Streamer to the Suzi Amp transforms it into a highly flexible streaming amplifier with Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, plus library storage and playback from the 2GO's twin 1TB microSD card slots.
Carefully push the Hugo 2 and 2GO units together, ensuring the Micro-USB connections are aligned. Attach the two screw-in hex bolts supplied to the 2GO and tighten. With power cables to the Suzi Amp disconnected, slide and align the Hugo 2/2GO atop the Suzi Amp and connect the Hugo 2's female outputs to the Amp's male outputs.
Secure the two units together with the charging bridge assembly. Once completed, the Suzi Amp power cable can be attached. Once all cables and connections are made, the Suzi Amp can be switched on. Depress the Suzi Amp and Hugo 2 power buttons to make the units ready for playback.
Verdict
Ready to explore the possibilities? The Chord Electronics Suzi Pre Preamplifier and Suzi Stereo Power Amplifier are both available for purchase at moon-audio.com. Choose between a black or silver finish, and while you're there, explore our selection of Dragon Audio Cables for integrating the Suzi Pre and/or Suzi Amp into your hi-fi setup.
Whether you're building your first serious hi-fi system or expanding an existing setup, the Suzi Pre and Suzi Amp provide the perfect foundation for many years of sonic bliss. Start simple, expand endlessly–that's the beauty of the Chord Electronics Suzi.
Specifications
Suzi Pre Preamplifier with Phono Stage
Dimensions: Length 215 mm, Width 100 mm, Height 34 mm
Frequency response: 7 Hz - 30 kHz +/- 3 dB
THD: 0.0007 % A-Weighted
Signal-to-noise ratio: -103 dB
Input Impedance: 46 kΩ
Output Impedance: 5 Ω
Input maximum voltage: 3.5 V RMS
Output maximum voltage: 3.5 V RMS
Gain: 0 dB
Channel separation: -95 dB
Operation voltage: 12 V AC via supplied PSU (or Suzi power adapter)
Power consumption: 20 W
Phono Stage
Gain: High and low gain options
Impedance: MM= 47 kΩ ; MC= 50 Ω ; 235 Ω + 47pF ; 470 Ω + 47pF
Suzi Stereo Power Amplifier
Dimensions: 215mm (L) x 100mm (W) x 69mm (H)
Weight: 2380g (with Suzi Pre, 2015g) (with Hugo 2 & USB Multiplexer, 1909g) (with Hugo 2 & 2GO, 1968g)
Power Output: 30W into 8 ohms
THD: 0.01%
Signal-to-noise Ratio: 116dB
Input Maximum Voltage: 3 V RMS
Crosstalk: -97dB
Output Maximum Voltage: 15 V RMS into 8 ohms
Operation Voltage: 80-250V AC auto-switching
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