Chord Epic USB Digital Audio Cable
A high-performance USB audio cable for digital systems where smoothness, colour, and expression matter.
When USB Playback Should Sound Less Like a Computer
USB audio can be extremely capable, but the connection often sits between music software, computers, servers, DACs, and nearby electronics. A basic USB cable may pass the data, but it does not necessarily help the DAC receive that connection in the cleanest way.
When the DAC and system are good enough, the result can be easy to hear. The music may be detailed, but less colourful, less expressive, or less fluid than the rest of the system should allow.
Chosen for More Expressive USB Audio
We chose the Chord Epic USB because it bridges the gap between Shawline and Signature for USB-based playback. Chord describes Epic USB as containing four silver-plated copper conductors, with two individually shielded, uprated FEP insulation, and a two-layer braided screen protecting the earth shielding connection.
That construction makes sense when USB is the main connection into a better DAC, streamer, music server, or headphone system. It gives the digital front end a more serious cable without moving all the way into Chord's reference ranges.
What the Specs Won't Tell You
USB Sounds More Expressive. Better conductor and shielding design can help the DAC receive more of the colour, contrast, and flow in the recording.
Quiet Detail Feels Smoother. Individually shielded conductors and the braided screen help control noise that can make USB playback sound flatter or harder than expected.
The Source Feels More Like Part of the System. Epic USB helps a computer, server, or streamer behave less like an accessory and more like a proper music source.
Expert Consensus
Hi-Fi News awarded the Epic USB an Editor's Choice mention in September 2020 and described its presentation as smooth, richly detailed, and very expressive.
The Audio Two Verdict
Epic USB is the cable we would consider when USB is not just a convenience input. It belongs in systems where the DAC is good enough to reveal the difference and the source needs to sound more fluid, colourful, and natural.
This is a useful step when Shawline USB has proven the value of the connection, but the system can support more refinement. The goal is not a sharper digital sound; it is more believable musical flow.
Tech You Can Hear
| What You Hear | Why It Happens |
|---|---|
| Smoother, more expressive USB playback | Four silver-plated copper conductors support cleaner digital transfer |
| More colour and contrast from a DAC | Two conductors are individually shielded to help protect low-level information |
| Less computer-like hardness | Uprated FEP insulation helps maintain signal integrity |
| A quieter USB connection | Two-layer braided screen protects the earth shielding connection |
Technical Highlights
- Epic USB digital audio interconnect
- Four silver-plated copper conductors
- Two individually shielded conductors
- Uprated FEP insulation
- Two-layer braided screen protecting the earth shielding connection
- Designed for USB DAC, computer, server, streamer, and headphone-system connections
- Available lengths: 1m, 1.5m, 2m, and 3m
Why Choose Audio Two
Audio Two ships across Canada. If you don't have access to a proper high-end dealer in your city, this is your way in — real expertise from people who've heard the system, matched the electronics, and can guide you through a decision this size.