Chordette Gem Bluetooth DAC by Chord Electronics

Filed under: Home Audio > DAC - Digital to Analog Converters


- Image: What-HiFi?

Chord has released a new Bluetooth DAC sporting a bit of '50s transistor radio style, called the Chordette Gem DAC. Chord founder John Franks was considering a traditional iPod dock for use with Chord's electronics. After learning about the A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for Bluetooth during discussions with Nokia and Sony Ericsson, Franks instead developed a 24-bit DAC that can transfer high quality stereo music signals wirelessly from any mobile phone or portable device that supports A2DP to a music system. Analog RCA outputs connect the Gem to a receiver or preamp, and a USB input accommodates PCs. For those looking for something a bit fancier than the £399 ($786) Gem, Chord has also added Bluetooth streaming capability to its new £3000 ($5,911) flagship QBD76 DAC.