Chord Anni

Chord's diminutive amplifier offers a premium twist on desktop sound

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Chord Electronics was early among hi-fi specialists to take Bluetooth seriously, and has long championed ultra-compact hi-fi electronics for those who want premium performance but are unable or unwilling to give up much space for it. The diminutive Anni desktop integrated amplifier is a perfect example of that.

Make no mistake, this really is a proper Chord amplifier in miniature, using the Ultima dual feed-forward circuitry seen in the latest generation of the brand’s high-end power amplification. However, this little box is only the size of the Chord Qutest DAC- think smaller than a pair of coasters laid end-on-and it's intended to be an ideal partner for that DAC and the company’s Huei phono stage. It is designed for desktop use with either headphones or suitable speakers.

Yes, it will drive big speakers and can work in a conventional stereo system, but that’s not the aim here. A power output of just 10 watts per channel will go only so far in such a situation, while the small array of inputs - just two single-ended stereo RCAS - also limits things somewhat.