Audio T Verdict
Suzi is a refreshingly different take on the stereo power amplifier. On its own it is a compact 30W-per-channel amplifier, but the clever bit is its modular design: add Suzi Pre for an analogue pre/power system, Hugo 2 for a DAC/amplifier or Hugo 2 and 2go for a complete streaming amplifier.
Despite its small dimensions, the amplifier incorporates Chord Electronics' ULTIMA topology and can be used perfectly happily with a conventional preamplifier through its RCA inputs. For anyone already invested in Hugo 2, however, the direct-integration options make Suzi particularly interesting.
Chord Electronics Suzi Power Amplifier
Suzi is a modular stereo power amplifier from Chord Electronics' Hugo range, delivering 30W per channel into 8 ohms.
It can be configured in several different ways:
- As a standalone stereo power amplifier with an existing preamplifier
- With Suzi Pre as a compact analogue pre/power amplifier
- With Hugo 2 as a DAC/amplifier
- With Hugo 2 and 2go as a network streaming DAC/amplifier
ULTIMA Amplifier Technology
Although Suzi sits within the compact Hugo range, its amplification incorporates Chord Electronics' ULTIMA technology.
The design brings the company's modern amplifier topology into a much smaller chassis, with a published 0.01% THD figure and signal-to-noise ratio of 116dB.
Maximum output voltage is specified at 15V RMS into 8 ohms.
A Fully Modular System
Suzi with Suzi Pre
Add the matching Suzi Pre to create a compact analogue pre/power amplifier with MM/MC phono stage and headphone connectivity.
Suzi with Hugo 2
Hugo 2 can integrate directly with Suzi to provide FPGA DAC, digital preamplifier and volume-control duties.
Suzi with Hugo 2 and 2go
Add 2go to Hugo 2 and the system gains Wi-Fi and Ethernet streaming, Roon functionality, DLNA/UPnP and MicroSD music storage.
Standalone Suzi
Use the rear RCA inputs with an existing preamplifier and Suzi operates as a conventional compact stereo power amplifier.
Connections and Operation
Suzi provides two sets of RCA inputs, with one connection set reserved for direct Hugo 2 integration. A removable solid-aluminium cover exposes the connections used when attaching Hugo 2 or Suzi Pre.
Further connections and controls include:
- 4mm banana loudspeaker outputs
- 12V DC output for compatible Chord Electronics equipment
- 12V DC power input
- Grounding terminal
- Front-panel power control
- AV bypass control for the rear RCA inputs
- 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone pass-through connections when used with Suzi Pre or Hugo 2
Headphone Outputs
Suzi's 3.5mm and 6.35mm connections do not turn the standalone power amplifier into a separate headphone amplifier. They operate as headphone pass-through connections when Suzi is partnered with Suzi Pre or Hugo 2.
Both headphone connections can be used simultaneously.
Hugo 2 and USB Multiplexer
A separate Chord Electronics USB Multiplexer can be added when Suzi is used with Hugo 2.
The accessory connects to Hugo 2's Micro USB inputs and adds:
- USB-B data input
- USB-C data and charging
- Simultaneous connection of both USB sources, with Hugo 2 detecting the active signal
View Chord Electronics Hugo 2 at Audio T
Compact British-Made Amplification
Suzi measures just:
- Length: 215mm
- Width: 100mm
- Height: 69mm
- Weight: 2.38kg
The aluminium casework also forms part of the amplifier's heatsinking, so adequate ventilation around the unit should be maintained.
Key Features
- Modular stereo power amplifier
- Chord Electronics Hugo range
- 30W per channel into 8 ohms
- ULTIMA amplifier technology
- 0.01% THD
- 116dB signal-to-noise ratio
- 15V RMS maximum output into 8 ohms
- 2 x stereo RCA input sets
- 4mm banana speaker outputs
- AV bypass function
- 12V DC output
- Grounding terminal
- Direct Suzi Pre integration
- Direct Hugo 2 integration
- Hugo 2 and 2go streaming configuration
- Optional USB Multiplexer support
- Headphone pass-through with Suzi Pre or Hugo 2
- Compact aluminium chassis
- Black or Silver finish
- Made in the United Kingdom
- Three-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is Chord Electronics Suzi?
Chord Electronics specifies 30W per channel into 8 ohms.
Can Suzi be used on its own?
Yes. Connect a conventional preamplifier to the rear RCA inputs and Suzi operates as a standalone stereo power amplifier.
Can Suzi connect directly to Hugo 2?
Yes. Hugo 2 can integrate directly with Suzi to provide DAC, digital preamplifier and volume-control functions.
What does Suzi Pre add?
Suzi Pre turns the system into an analogue pre/power amplifier and adds line inputs, MM/MC phono amplification, volume control and headphone outputs.
Can Suzi stream music?
Not by itself. Pairing Suzi with Hugo 2 and 2go creates a streaming DAC/amplifier with network playback functionality.
Does Suzi have balanced XLR inputs?
No. External analogue preamplifiers connect through RCA.
Does Suzi have headphone outputs?
It has 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone pass-through connections that operate when the amplifier is connected to Suzi Pre or Hugo 2.
What is AV bypass used for?
AV bypass engages Suzi's rear RCA inputs, allowing it to be driven by an external preamplifier or another suitable variable-output source.
What are Suzi's dimensions?
215mm long, 100mm wide and 69mm high.
What colours are available?
Audio T currently lists Black and Silver versions.
What warranty does Suzi have?
Chord Electronics provides a three-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Chord Electronics Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Suzi system configuration advice
- Loudspeaker matching guidance
- Suzi Pre and Hugo 2 setup advice
- 2go network-streaming guidance
- In-store demonstrations where appropriate
- Home demonstrations where appropriate
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store if you would like to demonstrate Chord Electronics Suzi or discuss the best configuration for your system.