Chord Electronics SUZI

The Chord Electronics Suzi is a stereo integrated hi-fi amplifier that stands out with its modular design and innovative ULTIMA technology. Designed to offer maximum flexibility to audiophiles, it can be used in various configurations, whether as an analog amplifier, a DAC/amplifier, or a streaming amplifier. This product fits seamlessly into Chord Electronics’ high-end product range, known for its high-performance audio solutions.

Design and Materials

The Chord Electronics Suzi features a compact and modular design, true to the British brand’s industrial aesthetic. Designed by John Franks, founder of Chord, this amplifier is distinguished by its precisely machined aluminum construction, offering both robustness and lightness. The Suzi’s reduced dimensions allow for easy integration into tight spaces without compromising audio performance.

The materials used are carefully selected to ensure effective thermal dissipation and long-term durability. Each Suzi unit is finished with meticulous details that reflect Chord’s commitment to craftsmanship quality. The casing is also designed to minimize electromagnetic interference, ensuring pure sound reproduction.

Key Features

The Suzi is equipped with ULTIMA technology derived from Chord’s high-end models, such as the Ultima Pre 3 and Ultima 6. This technology allows for precise and powerful amplification while maintaining low harmonic distortion. The amplifier delivers 30 W per channel, which is sufficient to power a wide range of hi-fi speakers.

One of the Suzi’s most innovative features is its modularity. It can be used alone as a power amplifier or combined with the Suzi Pre preamplifier to form a complete system with MM/MC phono input. Additionally, it can be paired with the Hugo 2 DAC and the 2go streamer to create a complete digital system capable of handling digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) and high-resolution audio streaming.

Performance Characteristics

In terms of audio performance, the Suzi stands out for its ability to offer a wide and detailed soundstage. Thanks to ULTIMA technology, it ensures optimal transient management and faithful reproduction of musical dynamics. The Suzi excels in rendering subtle details while maintaining exceptional clarity in low frequencies.

The 30 W per channel output power may seem modest, but it is more than sufficient to drive sensitive speakers in medium-sized rooms. Moreover, the Suzi benefits from an optimized internal design to minimize background noise and unwanted distortions, ensuring an immersive listening experience without any sound coloration.

Usage Scenarios

The Chord Suzi is designed to adapt to different usage scenarios thanks to its modularity and compatibility with other Chord devices. Here are some examples of use:

• Analog Amplifier: By combining the Suzi with the Suzi Pre preamplifier, you get a classic analog stereo system with a phono input for a turntable.
• DAC/Amplifier: By pairing the Suzi with the Hugo 2 DAC, you can transform the system into a high-performance digital-to-analog converter.
• Streaming Amplifier: With the addition of the 2go module, the Suzi becomes an amplifier capable of handling audio streaming via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

These different configurations allow users to tailor their setup according to their specific needs while enjoying exceptional sound quality.

Innovations

The Chord Suzi stands out with several technological innovations that make it a unique product in the integrated hi-fi amplifier market:

• ULTIMA Modularity: The ability to pair different modules (preamplifier, DAC, streamer) allows users to customize their system according to their preferences.
• FPGA Technology: As is often the case with Chord products, the Suzi uses an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) to manage digital-to-analog conversion with unmatched precision.
• Extended Compatibility: The Suzi is designed to easily integrate with other Chord products like the Hugo 2 DAC and the 2go streamer, offering a complete solution for demanding audiophiles.

Practicality

Despite its high-end performance, the Suzi remains easy to use thanks to its simple and intuitive interface. The connections are clearly identified and accessible at the back of the casing. The Suzi Pre preamplifier also features a dedicated phono input for vinyl enthusiasts, as well as several stereo RCA inputs to connect various audio sources.

Moreover, the Suzi’s compact size allows for discreet installation in any home environment without taking up too much space. Its modular design also means you can start with a simple setup and add additional modules as your needs evolve.

Maintenance

Maintaining the Chord Suzi is relatively simple thanks to its robust design. It is recommended to regularly dust the device to prevent any buildup that could affect thermal performance. The RCA connectors should also be cleaned periodically to ensure optimal audio signal transmission.

In case of technical issues or if repairs are needed, it is advisable to contact Chord Electronics directly or an authorized dealer to ensure the device is serviced by qualified professionals.

Technical Specifications

Electrical Specifications

• Output power: 30 W at 8 Ω
• Maximum input voltage: 3 V RMS
• Maximum output voltage: 15 V RMS at 8 Ω
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.01%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: -116 dB
• Power supply voltage: 80-250 V

Main Features

• Fully modular system
• ULTIMA cooling technology
• Compact design

Connectivity

• Inputs:
  • 2 pairs of RCA connectors
• Outputs:
  • 1 pair of speaker terminals (compatible with banana plugs)
  • 1 12 V DC socket

Compatibility

• Analog preamplifier/power amplifier (Suzi Pre with Suzi)
• Digital-to-analog converter (DAC)/amplifier (Suzi with Hugo 2)
• Streaming amplifier (Suzi with Hugo 2 and 2go)
• Can be used as a standalone amplifier