Chord Electronics
Mojo 2 DAC Headphone Amp (4.4mm)
$650.00 USDPay Over Time
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Features
4.4mm headphone output
3.5 mm headphone output
Improved FPGA: more resolution, power, and efficiency
Additional USB-C data input for fast data transfer
Fully transparent 'Ultra HD' digital signal processing EQ, tailoring the sound to you
Improved battery: FPGA-controlled management plus improved capacity
New Menu Functions
'UHD' DSP: advanced EQ adjustment for headphones, file formats, and personal taste
Improved WTA filtering: 40 DSP cores for better transparency and lower noise
Wireless-ready - simply add the Poly streamer/server
Proudly made in Britain from aircraft-grade aluminum. Anodized, bead-blasted, precision CNC milled. Jett black finish.
Video
What's in the Box?
Warranty
The British-designed and built Mojo 2 is the world's most advanced portable DAC and headphone amplifier today. It plays your favorite music with class-leading detail and clarity, all the way up to studio-grade levels. The Mojo 2 builds upon the original Mojo by Rob Watts and makes some substantial improvements in the overall functionality of the portable DAC. The new Mojo retains a lot of what made the Mojo 1 popular: dual headphone jacks, amazing build quality, control spheres, great battery life, and a soundstage and tone that few could compete with. The Chord Electronics Mojo 2 adds additional functionality, including enhanced tone controls, a revamped menu system, high-end sound specs, and low and high gain volume control. The Mojo 2 is the perfect portable DAC amp for almost every headphone and IEM on the market.
The Chord Electronics Mojo 2 is the new king of portable DAC Amps that every audiophile should have in their system. It improves on the original in every way possible. Easily improve the sound fidelity from streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz; the Mojo 2’s tone control can make lossy and lossless audio sound much better than your consumer-grade devices. Chord’s internal noise-shaper allows the EQ to work linearly below 104 bits, and the more extensive controls allow for much more nuancing of treble, high treble, mids, and lows than before. Battery management has improved with the new desktop mode. The Mojo was already the best. Now it’s just better.
Multiple winner of ‘Best DAC’ in the What Hi-Fi? Awards 2022, (and ’23, ’24, and ' 25!), the Mojo 2 is entirely engineered around a powerful, custom-coded FPGA processor and benefits from several unique technologies.
Central to the new Mojo 2 is a new 4.4 m headphone output, switchable USB-C charging, plus the world’s first lossless DSP, an advanced ‘digital tone control’ without any degradation in sound quality. The ‘UHD DSP’ gives Mojo 2 unrivalled compatibility with today’s wide-ranging headphones, plus unparalleled flexibility with partnering equipment.
A further key feature is the new menu system, navigated via the new (fourth) control sphere, bringing mute, crossfeed, button-lock, switchable USB-C charging, and tone control adjustment.
Mojo 2 offers greatly improved battery management, with faster charging rates, a huge 75 % reduction in power loss, plus a 9 % capacity gain.
The switchable USB-C data/charging input adds greater flexibility, transparency has been greatly boosted, thanks to an improved noise-shaper, lower distortion, and greater neutrality, plus Mojo 2 can even be taken wireless with the Poly streamer/server.
Handmade in the UK with a robust CNC-milled aircraft-grade aluminium chassis, Mojo 2 offers unrivalled performance, class-leading sound, and peerless build quality.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: The Silver Dragon USB Cable is our best-selling cable at Moon Audio and the perfect companion for the Mojo 2. The Silver Dragon USB transfers digital audio from a computer or portable device such as a Phone, Tablet, or DAP (digital audio Player) to a USB-capable DAC. Also consider the popular Silver Dragon Toslink Digital Cable for the Mojo 2.
Also consider the popular Silver Dragon Toslink Digital Cable for the Mojo 2.
CHORD MOJO 2 IS A DAC AND HEADPHONE AMP
The British designed, engineered, and built Mojo 2 is distinctly different from all other devices, Mojo 2 uses proprietary British digital audio technology perfected over more than two decades, coupled to a powerful ‘FPGA’ processor. The result is class-leading sound quality both on the move or at home, with the power to effortlessly drive any headphones. For music just as the artist intended, Mojo 2 brings you closer to the music than any other portable.
MORE FEATURES, MORE CONTROL, & BETTER SOUND
Unrivaled digital audio processing; powerful 'FPGA' technology
Additional USB-C data input for fast data transfer
Fully transparent 'Ultra HD' digital signal processing EQ, tailoring the sound to you
Take Mojo 2 wireless when adding the Poly streamer/server (2 TB)
Proudly made in Britain from aircraft-grade aluminum. Anodized, bead-blasted, precision CNC milled. Jett black finish.
IMPROVED & UNIQUE FPGA TECHNOLOGY ONLY FROM CHORD
For more than 20 years, Chord Electronics has exclusively used powerful programmable (FPGA) circuits with custom coding to provide the most advanced digital-to-analog conversion performance in the world. With digital audio technologies perfected over two decades, Mojo 2 contains more digital audio know-how than any other small DAC, resulting in unrivaed sound quality, all backed by peerless technical measurements from the lab.
CHORD ELECTRONICS MOJO 2 IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE POLY STREAMER
Completely compatible with our Wireless streaming module, Poly allows for wireless integration into your system.
Mojo 2 offers several ways to connect to digital devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, plus two 3.5 mm headphone outputs, meaning two can listen simultaneously. Digital inputs include fast-transfer USB-C, Micro-USB, optical, and coaxial, with charging via a separate dedicated Micro-USB input. Mojo polychromatic light-up buttons offer simple control with an additional visual guide to the device’s settings. A new menu button offers navigation through a new range of features, including the all-important, completely transparent UHD DSP function.
Mojo 2 brings exciting new features for music lovers.
Improved FPGA: more resolution, power, and efficiency
Improved battery: FPGA-controlled management plus improved capacity
New menu function
'UHD' DSP: advanced EQ adjustment for headphones, file formats, and personal taste
Improved WTA filtering: 40 DSP cores for better transparency and lower noise
High-speed USB-C input
Two 3.5 mm headphone outputs
Wireless-ready - simply add the Poly streamer/server
Next-generation FPGA-based portable DAC/headphone amplifier with advanced proprietary technology. Builds on the multi-award-winning Mojo and adds exciting new features plus improved performance. The class-leading custom-coded programmable chipset offers unrivalled technical performance and peerless sound quality. New menu feature with advanced UHD DSP, plus five digital inputs including USB-C. Wireless compatible via Poly.
Five digital inputs: coax, dual-data coax, optical, Micro-USB, and (new) USB-C. Two 3.5 mm headphone outputs for shared listening/headphone comparison, Wireless-ready for the Poly streamer/server
New USB-C input. New: world’s most advanced UHD DSP; advanced EQ adjustment.The new menu functionincludes. crossfeed, button lock, brightness, ss, and DSP. Improved FPGA: greater resolution, power, and efficiency.y Improved battery: larger capacity and intelligent desktop mode (derived from Hugo.2.) Improved WTA filtering: 40 DSP cores for better transparency and lower noise. Full compatibility with Poly 1-year warranty
FAQ
Does the Chord Mojo Support MQA?
The Chord Mojo 2 is not MQA-certified.
Is the Chord Mojo a Headphone Amp?
Yes, the Chord Mojo 2 can provide up to 4.2Vrms (90mW, 300 ohms) or 5.2Vrms (600mW, 30 ohms). It can provide enough power for most full-size headphones and, in some cases, two headphones simultaneously (depending on power ratings).
How Do You Use The Mojo 2?
The Mojo 2 is a portable headphone amplifier and DAC. You connect it to your source device, such as a phone or computer, allowing you to enjoy much better audio quality than the phone or computer itself. Connect the Mojo 2 to your device using a compatible cable, depending on your port selection. The Mojo 2 should, in most cases, be automatically recognized and redirect the audio through the Mojo 2 to your connected headphones.
What Does the Chord Mojo 2 Do?
The Mojo 2 is a portable headphone amplifier and DAC. The amplifier section provides power to your headphones, much more output, and headroom than your phone or computer can provide. The digital-to-analog section does just that: converts your digital data to an analog signal so that it can be output as an analog wave to your headphones for music listening. To learn more about how DACs work, head over to our "What is a DAC?" guide. You'll have much better sound quality using your Mojo 2 than you will direct from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Does the Chord Poly work with the Mojo 2?
Yes, since the Chord Mojo 2 has the same footprint as the original Mojo and the same connections, the Chord Poly will work in the same way. Simply connect the Ply to the Mojo 2 like you would with the Mojo 1.
What Does the Chord Poly Do?
When connected to the Chord Mojo digital-to-analog converter (DAC), the Poly is a “fully fledged” high-resolution wireless network music player, streamer, and SD card playback device with high-resolution wireless playback controlled by your smartphone. The Poly connects seamlessly to the Mojo and Mojo 2, with precision design, and the two devices act like one when connected. It works with both the Mojo 1 and 2, and makes a great addition to your portable HiFi setup. Head over to the product page to learn more about the Chord Poly Wireless Streaming Module for Mojo.
Do I Really Need a DAC?
DAC’s are one of the easiest ways to improve the quality of your music. Unless your streamer or all-in-one already has a high-end digital-to-analog converter, you do not necessarily need a standalone DAC. Some people prefer the sound of a particular DAC and may even use it in conjunction with their all-in-one units.
Does a DAC Improve Sound?
Yes, if you are connecting your Mojo 2 DAC to a consumer device like a smartphone or laptop, you will experience a superior music listening experience. The DAC is made to convert your digital data to an analog signal much more efficiently than your consumer device.
Will a DAC Improve Spotify or Music Streaming Services?
A DAC certainly will improve the overall quality of the music you are streaming from your source device. Another factor that can improve your streaming experience is to make sure you are streaming your music at the highest possible fidelity. Many streaming services offer a number of sound quality options based on your data consumption, and whereas high-resolution audio uses the most data, it will also offer the best sound quality.
Does the Chord Mojo 2 Support DSD?
Yes, up to DSD256.
How Do I Know If I Need a DAC or An Amp?
In most cases, devices like the Chord Mojo 2 will come with both. There are standalone DACs and AMPs, however, and in every case, you will need both to listen to music. No,w consumer devices like smartphones and laptops have both, but they are never up to audiophile quality. Having a high-end DAC will allow your music to sound better, more dynamic range, and more resolute. Typically, an amplifier is needed when you do not have enough power from your source device to power your headphones or speakers. In the case of some headphones, you will need extra power to make sure they are driven optimally. Oftentimes, a DAC and amplifier are used when your source device, like an iPhone, does not have a headphone jack. If you have easy-to-drive headphones, then in most cases a standalone DAC will be sufficient for music listening. As always, Contact Us if you have any questions.
How Does the Chord Mojo 2 compare to the iFi Audio Gryphon?
The Chord Mojo 2 is generally the more technical and detail-focused portable DAC/Amp of the two, with stronger imaging, separation, and a lower output impedance that tends to pair especially well with IEMs. The iFi xDSD Gryphon is more feature-rich and flexible, with built-in Bluetooth, analog inputs, and a more versatile tuning approach, so it can be the better all-rounder if you want convenience and extra connectivity. If versatility isn’t a priority, but long-term reliability and technical performance is, the Chord Mojo 2 DAC is the way to go.
How Do I Charge My Chord Mojo 2?
Use the included charging cable in your packaging to connect the Mojo 2 to a USB-powered source. Connect the micro-B connector to the port on the Mojo 2 with the battery icon to charge.
How Many Taps Does the Mojo 2 Have?
The Mojo 2 has 40,960 tap filters.
How Do I Connect My Mojo 2 To My Phone?
If you have an iPhone, you will need to connect the Mojo 2 via the USB cable and a proprietary CCK adapter from Apple. If you have an Android phone, then a USB-C to USB-C cable will work for data transfer, or a USB-C to a micro-B cable (depending on your connector type).
Why Is My Network/Status Flashing Yellow?
Poly cannot detect a connected MOJO/MOJO 2. Please ensure that your MOJO/MOJO 2 is switched on and connected.
Why is There No USB-C Fast Charging?
Implementing a charge function into the USB-C port would cause unwanted noise, which does not align with Chord’s philosophy of product design. Secondly, USB fast charging causes unavoidable damage to lithium cells. This is not appropriate for a product with an intended lifespan of above 3+ years.
Why Has Chord Continued to Use A Micro-USB Charge Input?
Chord has continued the previous layout of Micro-USB inputs on Mojo2 in order to maintain compatibility with the Poly streaming device. Many customers have invested in our streaming products,s and we will continue to support and develop them.
Balanced Headphone Output: Why Isn't One Included?
Single-ended is innately more transparent than balanced, ed as it’s simpler. Secondly, pulse array DACs are single-ended, so going balanced would make it sound worse. Conventional DACs are balanced to solve substrate noise, but the pulse array is discrete, so it doesn’t have this problem in the first place.
Apple iPhone/iPad Connection: What Do I Need?
To connect an Apple iPhone or iPad to Mojo 2, use a (genuine) Apple Lightning to USB adaptor (camera connection kit), connecting a suitable USB to Micro-USB or USB to USB-C to attach to the Mojo 2.
Output Stage: Have There Been Any Changes?
No, the analog OPs are the same. The biggest change on the analog side has been removing the coupling capacitor, which has tightened the bass with an extended definition.
Taps/Filters: How Many Does the Mojo 2 Have?
The original Mojo was 38,912 taps; Mojo 2 is 40,960. Not a huge change, but the filter core is upgraded to current standards, which is a larger change than the taps; there is more to our WTA filters than taps.
Battery-Free Operation: How is This Done Without Losses In Sound Quality?
On the original Mojo, the amplifier was fed by the battery directly. Now, it is fed by regulators, ensuring low PSU noise. We can see the benefit in that crosstalk (noise that came from the PSU) is considerably better with Mojo 2 at 118 dB.
Battery: What Type of Rechargeable Battery Is Fitted? Is It the Same As Mojo (1)?
It’s similar to Mojo, but benefits from a higher capacity.
Line-Level Mode: How To Access It
The line-level mode has been removed for safety; Chord had a few cases of customers inadvertently activating it when switching Mojo on. They have decided to remove it and make it a user-conscious event now, so by manually having to increase the volume, it’s easier to understand/remember it has been done. Mojo 2 still remembers volume setting afterward, so if you want to use it as a line-level DAC, you don’t need to set it every time.
Does the Mojo 2 work with the Original Poly?
Yes, the Mojo 2 still works with the original Poly. If you already have the Poly, you are good to go!
Can you leave the Mojo 2 plugged into a power source while using it?
Yes, now with the 2nd edition of the Mojo, it will automatically enter into desktop mode after sitting at full charge for around 2 hours to initialize. When the battery light glows purple, it is in desktop mode.
Is the Mojo 2 Battery Replaceable?
The Mojo 2 battery is not readily replaceable by the owners. If your Mojo 2 is having a battery issue,s it can be sent back to us and we can replace the battery for you.
How do you know when the Mojo 2 is finished charging?
When the charging LED glows solid blue, that is when the unit is finished charging.
What does the M button on the Mojo 2 do?
The new (M) button on the Mojo 2 is the Mode button, which lets you change through a variety of options on how you want to control the unit. More on this can be found in our product manual on the Mojo 2 product page.
Does the Mojo 2 have different Gain Stages?s
Yes, the Mojo 2 goes through two different gain stages. When the “Mode button” glows white when adjusting the volume/listening to music, it indicates that you are listening to the “High Gain” mode. When the mode button is a dim green, it is in “Low Gain” mode. As you adjust the volume, the different gain modes will automatically change.
Chord Mojo 2 DAC Headphone Amp Review & Setup Guide
Read Time: Approx. 30 min.
Chord Electronics Gets Their Mojo Back
It's been a long time coming. "Mobile Joy" is about to get twice the joy, as we can now happily say that the long awaited Chord Electronics Mojo 2 is finally here. More joy, better specs, and happier music enthusiasts all around, right? The original Mojo was a groundbreaking and beyond-popular device, offering some of the best sound and fidelity you can get in a super-small and portable package. On top of the appealing size, so too was the price tag, making for an affordable unit that wallets of every size and amount could obtain.
Originally designed based on the Chord Hugo, the Mojo was destined to become the perfect accessory to your smartphone. Offering a reference-quality mobile DAC and a superb headphone amplifier, the Mojo represented amazing sound quality that as they say, "rivals DACs at twenty times the price." They're not wrong, as you can look up any online forum or thread and find no shortage of sincere praise for the little device.
It hasn't necessarily been a secret that the next iteration of the Mojo was on the horizon. Many had speculated what the new specs could be, would it take the same form factor - just HOW would it be upgraded? Well, worry no more, we have all the answers to your questions and more. We'll also walk you through everything you need to know about setting up and connecting your Mojo 2, from driver installation to pairing it with your favorite devices.
Chord Mojo 2 Portable DAC & Headphone Amplifier Review
PROS
- Same Artix 7 Chip, FPGA code is new, improved, and updated
- Mojo was 38,912 taps, Mojo 2 is 40,960 tap filters
- Improved filtering and added DSP/more control/USB
CONS
- Roly-ball controls still here
- Same output power, but lower noise floor
- Color-coded controls can be confusing
Design
Guess what? If you didn't look closely you would probably think that nothing was changed - and that's a great thing, because the form factor of the original Mojo was simply excellent. It was small enough to be palm-able, but robust enough to have all the I/O you would need in a sturdy package. Chord nailed the design on the first try, so there is absolutely no need to update it. The chassis is made from bead-blasted high-grade aluminum, and the design retains the button controls. The only difference is that there is one more button on the new Mojo 2: the new "menu" button. They have been shrunken down overall in size and unlike the original design where the buttons rotate in the socket, the new buttons are stationary on the Mojo 2, and you are only able to press them inward. I'm not sure why this change was made, perhaps less moving parts the better as is typically the case with most electronics. The buttons still have a nice click to them, but with the new menu system all the color-coding can be a but confusing. We'll go over the color coding later in the features section as well as a more thorough overview in our User Guide for the Mojo 2.
The I/O is also modified slightly on the new model. On the right side of the device, you'll find the following ports (from left to right): Coax/dual-data Coax, USB-C and micro-USB input (data only), micro-USB (power), and optical/Toslink. The addition of the USB-C port is a welcome one, but there are some caveats which we'll talk about later (it's for data transfer only). On the left side of the device you'll find the exact same layout as the original Mojo, with dual 3.5mm (unbalanced) headphone jacks–great for IEMs and full-size headphones alike. Design-wise, the new Mojo is compatible with the Poly Streamer just like the old one. The footprint is identical, so you'll have no issue connecting your Poly with the Mojo 2. *Also, if using the Poly with the Mojo 2, be sure to update your firmware version for compatibility fixes.
It's also worth noting here that the clamping force for the headphone jacks is much tighter than the original Mojo. This means that Chord went out and found a new connector socket with a higher tolerance as well as the fact that there a lesser chance of static in the signal due to less wearing and bending on the connector. This was a complaint with the first generation Mojo, as the connections were sometimes loose and allowed for more bending of the connector inside the jack, causing the tip and the materials to get scratched, bent, and damaged over time. Tighter sockets will definitely help in this regard.
The bottom panel of the Mojo 2 looks to be exactly the same as the original Mojo, with a cutout to make room for the new USB-C port. The bottom of the port actually acts as the fourth "foot" of the device, laying flat. Depending on the cable, this could be a potential issue if your connector is thicker then it could cause the unit to lay uneven on the desk or table. Most times this is not an issue, and we're hard at work creating a new USB-C cable for the Mojo which allows it to lay flat on surfaces when the USB-C port is in use. The positioning of the port also makes this a great option for a more stable connection too, preventing the cable from bending downwards and allows it to lay flush with the table. The top of the new Mojo 2 has been modified quite a bit with the smaller, but 4 button slots as opposed to just three larger ones from the original unit. Also, the Chord logo cutout is smaller and curved completely instead of more squared off. I suppose technically this could provide a little more room for internals, but I can't imagine it would make a huge difference apart from aesthetics only.
Overall, the build quality and materials are just as astounding as they were on the original Mojo DAC. You know what they say: if it ain't broke. I'm glad to see Chord removing the rattling, rotating ball controls and going with a more stable push-control. I'll also take more buttons for more control any day regardless if the color coding can be a bit confusing at first, and the added USB-C is a welcome touch, even if it is only for data transfer. It's a solid update to an already great hi-fi product.
Mojo 2 Connections
Connect compatible digital devices including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and more to the Mojo 2's corresponding digital inputs. If all four inputs are connected simultaneously, the Mojo 2 will auto-select the correct input when music is played to the device. It is only possible to connect one USB at a time.
While the Mojo 2 has two USB inputs–USB-C and Micro-USB–we recommend using the USB-C for all connection purposes. The USB-C input sits at the bottom of the player so when you connect your USB-C cable it sits flush. Why is this important? The cable won't wobble around. When a Micro-USB cable is inserted into the Mojo 2, it's halfway up the side of the face plate risking the chances of accidental bumps that over time can expand the female socket and loosen the connect. This can also damage the locking tabs on the Micro-USB.
How to Connect Chord Mojo 2 to Android Devices
To connect the Chord Mojo 2 to your Android device, like a smartphone or tablet, use a USB-C Cable to whatever connection your Android device takes–be it USB-C, USB-A, or Micro-USB. Using the Mojo 2's USB ports enables digital audio output through the Mojo 2.
For Android smartphones, we suggest using the Silver Dragon Form Fit USB or Black Dragon Form Fit USB Cable. The same applies to tablets with Android operating systems. Our Form Fit cables are specially wired to work with Android devices and their short length makes them perfect for portable use.
Another option is our Silver Dragon USB Cable and Black Dragon USB Cables with an OTG connection. Why OTG? OTG Cables are designed specifically for portable use and can be chosen in various lengths from .5 ft to 10 ft. depending on your needs.
How to Connect Chord Mojo 2 to Apple Devices
For Apple Devices, the cable connection depends on the generation model of your product. If you have an Apple iPhone that's one of the newest generations with a USB-C connector, we recommend our Silver Dragon or Black Dragon USB Cables with a USB-C to USB-C connection.
Older generation iPhones with lightning connectors require a two-cable solution–an Apple CCK adapter that attaches to your USB Cable. The Apple CCK cable tells the Apple device that the Mojo 2 will output digital audio. You will need one cable with a USB-C to USB-A connector running from the Mojo 2 to the Apple CCK's female socket, and the Apple CCK will then connect to your iPhones lightning port.
Depending on the termination of your iPad, you will either need a USB-C to USB-C Cable or the two-cable Apple CCK solution.
How to Connect Chord Mojo 2 to Astell&Kern DAPs, Sony DAPs, and Shanling DAPs
Of the Astell&Kern, Sony, and Shanling Digital Audio Players we carry at Moon Audio, they use a USB-C connector. We recommend our Silver Dragon USB or Black Dragon USB Cables with a USB-C to USB-C connection.
Connecting an Astell&Kern DAP
1. Connect the Mojo 2 to a capable AK DAP via a USB-C to USB-C Cable
2. Go into the settings on the Astell&Kern DAP. Scroll down until you see USB Mode
3. Select DAC Input. The audio output will default to the Mojo 2 rather than the AK DAP
How to Connect Chord Mojo 2 to Windows and Mac Computers
Connecting the Mojo 2 to your Windows and Mac computers is easy! For Mac computers, it's as simple as plugging the Mojo 2 into the computer via a cable (USB-C to USB-C if your computer takes that, or USB-C to USB-A). You'll just want to confirm the Mojo 2 is set as the default device for audio output—which is laid out above.
For Windows computers, you'll want to make sure the Chord driver is installed on your computer, and once completed you can plug the Mojo 2 into your computer using a cable (USB-C to USB-A or USB-C to USB-C depending on your computer). As with Mac computers, confirm the Mojo 2 is set as the default device for audio output and you're ready to listen.
Add Wireless Streaming with the Chord Poly
The Chord Poly, a Bluetooth wireless streaming module is designed to pair with the Chord Mojo and Mojo 2. The Poly enables wireless audio playback from smartphones, streaming over Wi-Fi, and multiple Mojo/Poly combinations to be used at home or on the go.
The Poly supports PCM files up to 768kHz resolution and DSD64 to DSD512. Also, Poly's high-quality SD card reader/player frees up smartphone memory and storage. The Poly currently supports file types: ACC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, OGG VORBIS, ALAC, WMA, and MP3 and integrates with advanced music players such as Roon (excluding SD access). Additionally, the Poly includes a rechargeable LiPo battery for up to 9 hours of playback and allows both the Mojo and Poly to charge simultaneously.
Sound
For all you spec-heads out there, you shouldn't be alarmed to find that some specifications of the new Mojo 2 aren't changed at all from the Mojo 1. The best case scenario is that you connect both the Mojo and Mojo 2 as a group in your music playback setup and voila, the perfect A/B test. Fortunately, this is exactly what I did, being able to jump back and forth with the only change in the signal chain being the Mojo. For my testing purposes, I paired the Mojo 2 with the Meze Audio Liric Headphone, a Silver Dragon USB cable to PC, and a Silver Dragon Premium Headphone Cable for the Meze Liric Headphones. I also tried a myriad of other headphones for power testing purposes which I'll cover at the bottom of this section.
Let's take a look at the internals which help develop the sound of the Mojo 2. The Artix 7 chip is the exact same chip used the in first Mojo - but in the way it's being utilized the chip is only carrying code. Rob Watts has designed it to be the brain of the DAC using his latest and greatest algorithms. Other manufacturers use firmware updates to upgrade and change the sound of a device. If there is a specific update that you don't like, then you have to go through the hassle of rolling back firmware updates, downloading, and reinstalling older firmware versions based on your preferences. In some cases firmware or software updates can be released broken, rendering your device unusable until a new updates is released or you're forced to rollback versions. Rob Watt's philosophy is that once he's designed and found the sound that he wants, Chord sticks with it for the entirety of the product lifespan. The Artix 7 in this case is only being used for the coding, software, DSP for the EQ, etc.
The basic circuitry of the Mojo 2 hasn't changed much since the original Mojo, but what's been drastically improved is the layout - with shortened paths for less noise all around. The main difference in the circuitry is the PSU with added regulation on the amplifier for improved performance while charging. A big complaint with the Mojo 1 was that you would get added noise while charging. This wasn't necessarily a negative thing as it was simply the filter in the Mojo doing it's job dealing with dirty power from your wall socket. Typically, there isn't a filter built into USB chargers so Chord decided to build one internally into the DAC itself. Many times it was the charger itself that was the culprit because users tended to use OEM chargers that they had lying around from all their other electronics. Down the line Chord ended up making a revision to the Mojo, and now with the Mojo 2 they've taken it one step further with the PSU improvements. The benefit of this really shows off in the crosstalk noise measurements.
FPGA code is newly improved and updated. The original Mojo had 38,912 taps whereas the Mojo 2 has 40,960. More filter taps means closer to the original audio of the recording. It all has to do with the modulation between frequency response and the noise level in the unit. As you increase the volume and the freq. response, the noise floor adjusts with that volume. The Mojo 2 has dramatically improved the coding to do this more efficiently and accurately. It also has better filtering, with 40 DSP cores for better transparency (this is a larger influence on the sound quality than the increased tap number). Jitter reduction specs remain the same and a lot of work went into reducing 2G and GSM buzzing sounds which were issues with the Mojo. This wasn't RF but low frequency interference from mobile signals. This issue however is rapidly disappearing as 2G is getting phased out and noise interference is less of an issue with 4G and 5G.
So I repeat, "how does it sound?" In a single word: meatier. It's like going from a can of Campbell soup to the Chunky version. There's more to the music, and since the coupling capacitors were removed there is much more bottom-end weight to the sound. This was a design choice to make the bass response sound more like the Hugo 2. It's not a night-and-day difference, it's quite subtle, but there is more perceived information to the music. Of course, this overall effect will vary with different setups, headphones, etc, but side by side it's noticeable. Listening to the finale of Stravinky's Firebird Suite, the details of the high staccato strings sound like fireflies dancing in the summer night, and then the french horn fanfare slowly comes in, filling the low-mids with a heaviness. That heaviness is missing from the original Mojo. It's more expressive, hearing more details in the intonation in that range that were masked before. The overall crescendo to the finale is moving, the dynamics of the orchestra standing out - just MORE. Timpani hits are booming in a way that the original Mojo couldn't do.
I'm quite impressed with the depth and detail resolution overall. Much of that is thanks to the improved noise-shaping of the Mojo 2, but it's just a nice and clean sound. Even in older recordings (yes, I know a lot of the releases now are remastered and cleaned up A LOT), but tape noise is still heard in some respects, and it's a lovely quality to retain in the song, especially when it doesn't get in the way of the instrumentation itself. Norwegian Wood is a beautiful example of the details of the picked and strummed acoustic parts being balanced by the thumpiness of the Hofner bass. I'm even hearing some slight bass distortion in the recording itself from what sounds like a channel overdrive (not sure - don't quote me on that). The sparkle even shines through on the sitar strums, shimmering on after the lower frequencies die out. The panning of the instrumentation in this song show off the noise floor and transparency well. You can tell a lot about a product in the silences between the music.
In discussing the Mojo 2' sound with designer Rob Watts himself, transparency is the word that keeps coming up. To Rob, lossless means transparent–perfectly preserving the original music signal while perfectly performing EQ filter functions. His approach centers on three pillars: small signal amplitude accuracy, small signal phase accuracy, and eliminating noise floor modulation. The original Mojo's noise shaper had a phase error at -301dB, and eliminating this in the Mojo 2 gave much better depth perception. Rob even designed a custom DSP core with noise shaping on every internal node, going beyond what even 104-bit processing could achieve on its own. The Mojo 2's transparency is something you have to hear — if it's good enough for Rob's ears, it should be good enough for yours.
The Firebird Suite
By Igor Stravinsky
Norwegian Wood (The Bird Has Flown)
By The Beatles
(Rubber Soul)
Rockin' the Suburbs
By Ben Folds
(Rockin' the Suburbs)
Everlong
By Foo Fighters
(The Colour and the Shape)
Features
The Mojo 2 features some nice quality-of-life upgrades from the original model which came out seven years ago. Updating the I/O was a necessity, especially for the inclusion of USB-C. It's becoming the new standard for charging and data transfer, so the fact that Chord has included this is a plus. Kind of. Unfortunately, the USB-C port is only for data transfer, along with the other micro-USB port. Charging on the Mojo 2 is only available via micro-USB, since they only include a single micro-USB to Type-A cable with the device. I would have liked to see USB-C charging as an option since most people are already carrying around a USB-C cable for their modern electronics. The micro-USB power just feels like a step backwards unfortunately. The Mojo 2 includes an auto-detect input mode and it'll cycle through the inputs in the following order: micro-USB, USB-C, then coax and optical. Keep in mind that Mojo 2 only allows for one USB connection at a time. We will recommend USB-C for data connection due to the positioning of the port allowing for a flush and stable connection without vertical bending.
While we're at it, let's just get the rest of the bad (but not really bad) out of way. Being able to run dual headphone outputs simultaneously was a great feature of the original Mojo. However, the actual usefulness of the audio splitter, especially considering the shared volume control, would depend on a case-by-case basis. Personally, I would have found the inclusion of a balanced port option (4.4mm or even 2.5mm) much more useful. Many of us already have balanced cables for our favorite headphones, and forcing the user to fall back on a single-ended cable limits the overall usability of the device. DACs a quarter of the price even include balanced connection options, so again, rather than keep the dual-3.5mm design (which is still nice), the addition of a balanced option would have taken the DAC/Amp to the next level in my opinion, but Chord made specific design choices to maximize the overall performance of the device. That being said, due to the sound quality coming out of this device I don't care that much. Balanced isn't always better and considering Chord's reputation and product history, it's doesn't make sense for them to include one here. It would ultimately pay a toll on the battery life and internal circuit design. It's fine as it is.
No, the Mojo 2 doesn't have Bluetooth. Stop asking for Bluetooth. Why would Chord give the Mojo 2 Bluetooth which would effectively make the Poly obsolete? Plus adding Bluetooth would bypass everything designed in the Mojo that sounds amazing. Stop it. Bluetooth is great. Bluetooth on Mojo is not great. Moving on...
How does the Chord Electronics Mojo 2 compare to rivals like the iFi xDSD Gryphon? The iFi Gryphon is a formidable UHD-capable DAC/Headphone Amplifier that offers Bluetooth, balanced output, and MQA support–features the Mojo 2 omits by design. However, where the iFi Gryphon leans on features, the Mojo 2 doubles down on pure sonic performance, with Robb Watts' custom FPGA implementation and class-leading noise floor giving it a distinct edge in transparency and resolution.
If your priority is raw fidelity, the Chord Electronics Mojo 2 wins. If you need wireless connectivity and a balanced output in a portable package, the iFi Gryphon or the FiiO Q7 are worth a look. Both are fine products, and the right choice depends on your priorities.
Quick Start & Operations
- Charging: For optimum performance fully charge before use. Connect the MicroUSB charging port to power. Battery status light, Blue = fully charged. Purple = desktop mode when permanently connected.
- Connect inputs: Connect digital devices via MicroUSB, USB-C, optical, or coaxial. Mojo 2 will auto-select the input when music is playing. Note that USB takes priority over coaxial and then optical (in that order).
- Connect headphones: Connect up to two pairs of headphones via the dual 3.5mm ports. Note that the volume adjusts both headphones together; there is no independent control.
- Power up.: Press and hold the power button until illuminated, then release. The button will cycle through colors and click before being ready to use (the audible *click* is normal).
- Volume adjustments: Before use, press and hold the "-" volume button until both "+" and "-" are unlit. When music is playing, safely increase the volume using "+" to a comfortable level. Use "-" to reduce volume as necessary.
Of course, with more buttons comes more control, and that's a good thing. The bad thing is that there's more colors and menus to learn and memorize. It's worth the trade-off though, and the new Menu button adds quite a bit of functionality to the Mojo 2 DAC. Here are just a few of the menu settings - you can find much more information in our Product User Guide for the Mojo 2.
Please note that due to the small amount of buttons and large number of functions, it will be important to read over the User Guide to better understand the full functionality of the Mojo 2 to get the very most out of your DAC Amp. For instance, Poly users will not achieve a white charge status light (indicating maximum charging power) while both devices are charging simultaneously. One feature I know many will appreciate is the new Intelligent Desktop Mode. Mojo 2 can be left connected to a power source at all times if desired. In this mode, when fully charged, Mojo 2's menu and battery status light displays a nice cool purple, indicating the end of the charge cycle and and the initiation of Intelligent Desktop Mode which regulates charging to preserve the battery.
The shape of the colored areas demonstrate how the DSP lift and cut ('shelf' controls) affect the range of frequencies within each of the four main groupings. The lift/cut either tapers off (with bass) or swells (with treble), when moving through the frequency range.
Common musical instruments on the frequency spectrum, in a very brad sense, demonstrating how the prominence of instruments might be affected when making adjustments using the DSP tone controls.
Mojo 2 Setup & Configuration
A popular question at Moon Audio is "How do I set up sound properties for the Chord Mojo 2 on Windows and Mac?"
Using the Mojo 2 with a computer requires downloading the Windows drivers from Chord's product page. If using an Apple computer, you can simply plug the Mojo 2 straight into the computer and select the Mojo 2 as your audio output. Follow our detailed instructions below for setup and configuration of your Mojo 2.
How to Install: Windows 11 or earlier
1. Plug in your Chord Mojo 2 to your computer using a USB-C to USB-C Cable
2. Power on the Chord Mojo 2
3. Locate the correct driver on Chord's product page
4. Download the driver and open the setup file
5. Windows will ask to run this app and make changes to this device. Select Yes
6. Press Install to continue the installation–followed by Next, Next and Finish
Also, allow installation of the Asio driver in case your playback software requires it. You might be prompted to restart your computer for settings to take effect. If so, restart your computer. Now press Finish
Configuring Your Mojo 2
Below are instructions for configuring your Chord Mojo 2 using Windows 11 and Windows 10 (& earlier) computers
For Windows 11
1. Connect the Mojo 2 via USB
2. Open Settings > System > Sound > More Sound Settings
3. Double-click Mojo 2 under Playback. Once a pop-up window opens click Advanced
4. Check that exclusive mode is engaged in both boxes of your device. Checking exclusive modes allows programs like JRiver to bypass the Windows Sound Properties and take over the sound control
5. Set the Chord Mojo 2 as the default device and click Apply
For Windows 10 or Earlier
1. Connect the Mojo 2 via USB
2. Open Settings > System > Sound > Device Properties > Additional Device Properties > Advanced
3. Rename in the general tab to Chord Mojo 2
4. Click Apply
Click on Mojo 2 supported formats and make sure your computer mirrors the settings in the image below. Be sure to check off all resolutions to ensure that your Chord Mojo 2 can playback various audio resolutions.
5. Now go to the Advanced tab
6. Check that exclusive mode is engaged in both boxes of your device. Checking exclusive modes allows programs like JRiver to bypass the Windows Sound Properties and take over the sound control
7. Set the Chord Mojo 2 as the default device and click Apply
Testing Playback Applications
When setting output in Qobuz, ensure you select either the ASIO or WASAPI exclusive drivers and not direct sound. In TIDAL, select the Chord digital output, and ensure under 'more settings' that you've engaged exclusive mode and force volume.
If using Roon, you need to select settings and audio. From here, you can enable the Chord driver and then select the Mojo 2. Now the Mojo 2 will be recognized as an output in Roon and can be selected for playback. To check if playback is lossless, press the signal path icon.
How to Install: Mac OS
(This example is installing the Chord driver for use with Mac OS)
On Apple Mac OS, iOS for iPhone/iPad, and Android, no drivers are required to change the sound properties. Simply plug in the Chord Mojo 2 to your Apple Mac computer and select your Mojo 2 as the audio output. To fine-tune the audio output, go to the Audio MIDI Setup (AMS) by navigating to Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup
1. Configure the audio setup for the Chord Mojo 2 in this window
2. You can configure your audio sample rate here too (for USB DACs)
3. The Mojo 2 automatically defaults to 384 kHz and DSD 64/128 if your playback software/app can support it
4. Therefore, you should not have to configure the sample rates if you are using the Mojo 2
5. Here is the Apple Online Support link for the Audio MIDI Setup if you need additional information
NOTE: This image is for the Chord Hugo setup–Mojo will work in exactly the same way, showing up as an audio-out option in the menu below like the Hugo
Verdict
There's a reason why no other DAC sold as well once the original Mojo was released. It was that good. It brought unparalleled sound to your mobile setup. Audiophile-grade audio with fidelity and power unmatched. The reigning king of portable DACs. Every reign has to end at some point.
It's better it be overthrown by a new version, and Chord has outdone themselves with the Mojo 2. Sure it might not have all the features some people were hoping like Bluetooth and balanced connections, but when you look at the device and how it's designed you ultimately come to realize you don't need them. Chord Electronics has designed the Mojo 2 to be the powerhouse of your setup. Whether you're posted up at a desk with the Silver Dragon USB Cable as your perfect link, or on the go with the one of our Premium Headphone Cables, the Mojo 2 delivers high-performance.
The sonic upgrades are there - don't be fooled by some of the specs being identical. Sound doesn't just lie in new chips. Chord has a design process where they assess what really needs to be improved, and the Mojo 2 is a refinement in that art. Better transparency, more depth, improved bass response, larger battery - it's all there. And this is where I look to you, current Mojo 1 owners. I consider the best upgrading talking point to be the features. Let's just ignore the fact that the Mojo is seven years old already and probably in need of a new battery anyway. But it's the new features and upgrades that allows the listener more control over their music: Low/High gain options, better color-coded indicators (will take some time to learn), new menu filters, intelligent desktop mode, EQ, and much more. Yes, I would say it's a worthwhile upgrade even if you have the existing Mojo.
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FAQ
Does the Chord Mojo Support MQA?
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Is the Chord Mojo a Headphone Amp?
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How Do You Use the Mojo 2?
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What does the Chord Mojo 2 Do?
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Related Videos
Chord Mojo 2 Unboxing Video
Chord Mojo 2 Review–Drew's Impressions
Chord Mojo 2 DAC: Features, EQ, & More Explained
What's in the Box
- Mojo 2 DAC Amp
- Micro-USB to Type-A cable
- Quick Guide / Paperwork
Specifications
Technical Features
- Five digital inputs: coaxial, dual-data coax, optical, Micro-USB and USB-C
- Dynamic range 125.7 dB A wt.
- Noise 2.7 uV A wt., no measurable noise floor modulation
- Distortion and noise 0.00027 % at 2.5 V 300 ohms
- Power output 1 % distortion:
- 90 mW 300 ohms (5.2 V RMS)
- 600 mW 30 ohms (4.2 V RMS)
- 0.06 ohms output impedance
- 118 dB stereo separation 1 kHz 300 ohms 2.5 V
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Physical Specifications | |
| Dimensions | 83 mm (3.26 in.) x 62 mm (2.44 in.) x 22.90 mm (0.90 in.) |
| Weight | 185 g (0.4 lbs) |
| Technical Specifications | |
| Digital Inputs | Five inputs: Coaxial, Dual-data coax, Optical, Micro-USB, USB-C |
| USB-C Charging | Switchable USB-C charging |
| Output Impedance | 0.06 ohms |
| Audio Specifications | |
| Headphone Outputs | 2 outputs: 4.4mm TRRRS and 3.5mm TRS |
| Frequency Response | 7 Hz - 20 kHz +/- 3 dB |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 123 dB 'A' weighted |
| Dynamic Range | 125 dB A-weighted |
| Noise | 2.7 µV A-weighted, no measurable noise floor modulation |
| Distortion and Noise | 0.0003% at 2.5 V 300 ohms |
| Power Output (1% THD) | 90 mW @ 300 ohms (5.2 V RMS) 600 mW @ 30 ohms (4.2 V RMS) |
| Stereo Separation | 118 dB @ 1 kHz, 300 ohms, 2.5 V |