The best USB DAC/headphone amplifier

The award-winning Mojo

Here's a preview of the award-winning Mojo Digital-to-Analogue Converter from Chord Electronics.

We're right in the middle of writing a review of the Chord Electronics Mojo DAC/Headphone amplifier, so it was a nice surprise to see a press release land in our in-tray telling us that the company has won a prestigious award from EISA, the European Image and Sound organisation. The award is for the best USB DAC/headphone amplifier.

And while this might sound a bit niche, it's important to understand that other winners of EISA awards include Sony, for its digital still cameras.

So, while we're finishing the review, just a quick overview of the winning device.

It's a USB-connected portable DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) with internal batteries for up to ten hours operation from a four hour charge. It's a tiny unit with two sets of headphone outputs along with inputs for USB audio signals, as well as optical and co-axial digital audio.

The Mojo will play virtually all modern audio file formats and doesn't require drivers for connection to a Mac. It will work with smartphones (including the iPhone with a 'Camera Connector').

Designed and made in the UK, it's a solid piece of kit that is well worth the asking price of £399.  It makes a huge difference to the sound of your portable device.

How does it sound? You'll have to wait for our review in a week or so, but you won't be surprised to know that we liked it very much indeed!