5 September 2019

Chord POLY - New Firmware 2.0

Chord’s MOJO and POLY now offer easier setup, better wireless stability, and TIDAL/QOBUZ integration via a major firmware update, making high-res portable audio and streaming simpler and more reliable.

Chord's mobile D/A converter and headphone amplifier Mojo has been delighting the discerning headphone community since its market launch a few years ago—so much sound from such a small device remains unmatched to this day. And with the add-on module Poly, the compact sound artist is instantly upgraded into a portable high-res player and a DLNA- and Roon-compatible streamer.

Unfortunately, the first version of Poly was hampered by a somewhat cumbersome operation, especially with the network setup via the web interface, which proved too challenging for many users inexperienced with networks. Recently, however, Chord introduced a comprehensive software update for both Poly and the setup app GoFigure, which finally puts these difficulties in the past.

Alongside a completely new and simpler setup logic, the stability of the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections has been improved, Roon support has been completed, and a clever trick for using Tidal and Qobuz has been integrated: By entering your login information for these services in the new version of the app, Poly makes their content available via compatible DLNA apps. Chord still recommends the app "8Player" for iOS as well as BubbleUPnP for Android devices.

Note: All currently shipped Polys already have software version 2.0. The following instructions are therefore only intended for owners of Polys whose software is not yet up to date.

How to install the latest firmware for your Chord Poly:

Preparation:

- If present, remove the SD card from your Poly and only reinsert it after the update is successfully completed.

- Make sure that the batteries in both Poly and Mojo are fully charged. It's best to leave Poly and Mojo connected to a USB charger during the update.

- For downloading the update, Poly must be connected to a wireless network that provides internet access.

- Update the GoFigure app on your mobile device via the Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).

- Make sure that firmware version 1.0.41 is installed on your Poly: Turn on Mojo and Poly, connect Poly to a network with internet access (the P.status LED glows solid blue), and wait at least 30 minutes. During this time, Poly will download the update to version 1.0.41 if it is not already installed. Then disconnect Mojo and Poly from the power supply, turn off Poly (either turn off Mojo or disconnect Poly and Mojo), and wait until Poly is completely shut down (all LEDs are off). Turn Mojo and Poly back on and reconnect the charger.

Update to Poly Software V2.0:

- Open the updated GoFigure app on your mobile device and connect it to Poly. Under Settings>>General Settings, check that your Poly's software version is 1.0.41.

- Return to the main menu of the GoFigure app and select Settings>>Device Settings. Here, select Update Firmware. The app will close automatically; please do not restart it immediately.

- Poly will now download the update and install it automatically. Depending on your internet connection, this process can take up to 30 minutes. During this time, the P.status LED will change color several times and Poly will restart twice. Be sure to keep Poly and Mojo connected to the charger, do NOT reinsert the SD card, do not turn off Mojo, and do not disconnect the two devices. Only when the P.status LED lights up solid green can you use Mojo and Poly as usual again.

What's New in the GoFigure App

With Poly firmware version 2.0 and the latest version of the GoFigure app, several new features are available:

- Automatic search, setup, and management of Wi-Fi connections.

- Integration of internet radio including favorites storage

Radio app interface showing options to add favorite stations and switch between various BBC Radio channels. — Radio app with BBC stations: Add your favorite stations or quickly switch between BBC Radio 1, 1xtra, 2, 3, and 4FM.

- Improved playback of DSD via DLNA

- Gapless playback via DLNA (if supported by the DLNA app used)

- Server integration of Tidal and Qobuz:
Under the USER menu at the bottom of the screen, you can now enter your login details for your Tidal and/or Qobuz account. Poly then connects with the services and makes their content available via DLNA. Connect your DLNA app to the server Polyxyz(...)-Mediaserver and access your music.

Screenshots of Chord Poly firmware 2.0 interface showing music streaming settings and improved network and media server integration. — Screenshots of the new Firmware 2.0 for Chord Poly show the user interface and settings for music streaming services such as Tidal and Qobuz. Improved network and media server integration are also visible.

Person holding a smartphone and Chord Poly device, ready for music on the go after firmware update 2.0.5. — A person holds a smartphone and a Chord Poly device, ready to enjoy music on the go. The new firmware update 2.0.5 promises improved performance.

Headphones and Chord Mojo Poly on a table in a relaxed setting, showcasing top sound quality with firmware 2.0.6. — Headphones and Chord Mojo Poly on a table in a relaxed setting. The perfect combination for first-class sound enjoyment with the new firmware 2.0.6.

Screenshots of the Chord Poly app after firmware update, showing network settings and music service integration options. — Screenshots of the Chord Poly app after the 2.0.7 firmware update. Users can manage network settings and integrate music services such as Tidal and Qobuz.