Description ⌄
Revolutionary integrated desktop amplifier using dual-feed-forward circuit topology. The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact desktop integrated amplifier that combines a loudspeaker power amplifier and headphone amplifier in a solid aluminium machined chassis. It uses Chord's dual feed-forward error-correction topology and Class AB sliding bias circuit, delivering 10W into 8Ω for loudspeakers alongside 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs. The Anni is designed to complement the Qutest DAC and integrates with the Qutest stand system.
Technical background
Chord's ULTIMA amplifier topology, developed by company founder John Franks, applies dual feed-forward error-correction ahead of the output stage. Rather than relying solely on negative feedback to correct distortion after the fact, ULTIMA continuously monitors and corrects the signal before it reaches the power transistors. The result is vanishingly low measured distortion with none of the sonic side-effects associated with high global feedback. Custom-specified proprietary MOSFETs, high-frequency switch-mode power supplies, and aircraft-grade aluminium casework complete the engineering picture.
Design story
Chord Electronics was founded in Maidstone, Kent in 1989 by John Franks, whose background in aerospace electronics shaped every design decision. Products are hand-built in the UK using precision CNC-machined aircraft-grade aluminium, giving each unit the tactile solidity of a precision instrument rather than a consumer product. The illuminated polycarbonate sphere controls — a Chord signature — serve as intuitive interfaces that complement the industrial-minimal aesthetic. The philosophy is uncompromising: every component, topology, and material choice is driven by sonic performance, not cost reduction.
Best for
Headphone listeners wanting a dedicated amp to partner with Qutest or other line-level DACs; desktop headphone systems Desktop audiophile, headphone and compact speaker user, Chord DAC owner Desktop headphone system, near-field monitoring, compact speaker driving
Awards & press
⭐ Hi-Fi+ Desktop Amp of the Year 2021 "There's little we've heard that sounds better than the Chord Anni when used in a desktop context." — What Hi-Fi? "The Anni is a deceptively powerful little amplifier that produces an enormous, enveloping soundstage." — Hi-Fi+ "Chord's Anni brings legendary WTA filtering to a beautifully compact, desktop-friendly headphone amplifier." — Hi-Fi News
Features ⌄
- FPGA DAC with analogue volume control — desktop DAC and headphone amplifier
- Based on Hugo 2 architecture — award-winning Chord digital processing in desktop form
- Pairs with Qutest as integrated amplifier — modular system building
- Handmade in England with aircraft-grade aluminium chassis
- Can drive both headphones and compact loudspeakers from the same unit
- ULTIMA-derived dual feed-forward error-correction circuit topology