Most important - sound quality vs laptop. If it is more transparent (straight to dac or via HMS) then price suits well. If it is just nice looking unit with only upnp dlna function - dunno...
Sound quality vs laptop would of course be interesting to find out about.
I normally listen to downloads via Qutest/HMS/MBP via usb and either speakers or headphones.
I can also listen to cds via optical from either of my wo cd players.
And with the cd players all I have to do is to have optical connected, load a disc and press PLAY!
Simple and very functional.
I might be interested in this new combo if it will improve even further on my HMS/Qutest than my MBP via usb and Audirvana.
BUT I have on important question apart from SQ?
Will I still need a THIRD UNIT like a smartphone or an iPad or laptop to be able to play music stored onto sd cards in a 2GO?
If so I think Chord has completely lost me as a potential customer.
Chord seems to make customers buy not only an expensive 2GO plus a a 2You for those who want to use the sd card playing facility with any other dac than the H2.
And if my fears are confirmed not only that, they have to use yet another unit to actually make these two units work at all?
There are already LOADS of DAPs that have ALL the functionality needed built in to ONE unit.
I don't see any signs of any CONTROL SCREEN on either of the two new Chord toys!
Even the cheapest Chinese or Japanese DAPs have one!
If an iPhone or iPad is needed with these two my interest in them is nil.
Cheers CC