Earlier this week, Chord Electronics introduced Anni, the UK-based company’s first-ever desktop integrated amplifier capable of driving headphones and compact loudspeakers. A member of the Qutest range, the Anni desktop integrated amplifier integrates seamlessly with the Qutest standalone DAC and the Huei phono stage to form a high-quality audio setup for digital and analogue sources.
Controlled by a fascia-mounted volume control that also doubles as an input selector switch for Anni’s two line-level inputs. Anni adopted its proprietary ULTIMA circuit topology to deliver 10 watts of amplification through its 3.5 mm and 6.25 mm jacks and 4 mm banana-type speaker outputs.
Anni also features the company’s recently announced dual-feed-forward error-correction circuitry topology. The technology allows the integrated desktop amplifier to drive any headphone load with error-monitored and compensated amplification at all times. At the same time, a two-stage gain control for loudspeakers provides additional flexibility with a wide range of desktop monitors.
Similar to the rest of the Qutest range, Anni is available only in black and is encased in the identical UK-made precision CNC-machined high-grade aluminium casework like all Chord Electronics’ products. It also sports the iconic polychromatic control spheres that govern the power and gain controls, complementing the fascia-mounted volume control/input selector. As always, Anni is entirely designed, engineered and built in the UK. In addition, Anni is compatible with the company’s QSS (Qutest Stand System) modular equipment rack.
Anni is powered by a 15V external power supply and features a 12V DC output that can power the Qutest DAC and Huei phono stage when used with the new, supplied Qutest range power adapter.
The Chord Anni will be available later this month, priced at AUD 2,500 / GBP 1,195 / SGD 2,399 / USD 1,795.
