So, I bought a Chord Hugo TT2...now what?

I purchased a TT2 about six months ago, and my next upgrade was the LTA MZ3, which I primarily use with my Focal Utopia headphone. For me, the TT2 already provided a significant boost in resolution, so I didn't rush into getting an M-Scaler. I might consider it in sometimes this year of next year. In the meantime, I am enjoying the synergy between the TT2 and MZ3. The TT2 delivers very good resolution for me at the moment, while the MZ3 adds a bit of that "tube magic" without the usual heat and lengthy warm-up times—just 15 seconds to get up and running, which is incredibly convenient for a tube amp.

Regarding streamers, I'm currently using Audirvana on a Mac, connected to the TT2 via a Tubulus Concentus USB cable. I had planned to upgrade my streamer next, but I'm holding out for more options with Audirvana Ready support. I prefer to stick with Audirvana because I appreciate its EQ capabilities via plugins. For instance, I usually add a low-frequency shelf filter of 3dB when using the Utopia directly with the TT2, and with the MZ3, I often boost the lows further with an extra 1dB or more.

So, if you're considering your next move, think about what will enhance your listening experience based on your current setup and preferences. For me, the MZ3 has been a great addition. I’m not in a rush to rapidly upgrade my system anymore. I’m content with what I have and happy to enjoy it until I feel the need or the want for further improvements.

That’s a nice system! Underserved by the Node I think. As others have said, let it settle in for a bit. Clocking and noise are key factors with digital. If you are using coax, the Node is providing the clock, which is not ideal. If you are using USB the DAC is providing the clock. Try both once things settle. Good digital cables make a huge difference. I just upgraded my USB cable and experienced a huge improvement in clarity and soundstage. 
 

I have no experience with Chord stuff, but I recall when the Grimm MU1 was released, some Dave owners stated they no longer heard a difference having their M Scaler in the chain, so they sold the M Scalers. It is twice the price of the M Scaler but if you are thinking of upgrading your streamer anyway it's a thought. 

Curve ball: Here is another idea/option to consider if you have a TT2: PGGB

It was developed from/for Dave owners and they love it. Some others with different DAC's have tried it and found it beneficial. It would definitely answer your "now what" question if you wanted to put a little elbow grease into your files.  

Audio Bacon did a review of it recently also: PGGB Audio Bacon and he compares it to the M Scaler. 

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TT2 when used in DAC mode puts out 2.5v via RCA and 5v via XLR.
I’m using balanced cables. And herein lies the problem - the hot 5v output results in heavy emphasis on bass and drive, muddying up the mids and highs and flattening the soundstage.
To overcome this issue and bring the TT2 sonics to the level that’s acceptable for a DAC in this price range, I changed the configuration and am now using it in AMP mode.

I will share settings that worked for me in my system and I’ll preface this by saying if you’re making changes, it is critical to turn off your source feeding the TT2 and turn off your amplifier. If you switch your TT2 to amp mode while you have your system playing, it is capable of sending a signal to your amp that may damage the amp and speakers - be extra cautious!

Settings that work best in my system using XLR cables with two integrated amplifiers (Boulder 866 and Coda CSiB):

Mode: AMP

Gain: Low G

Volume: attenuated to -7db

It is absolutely key to match your outputs to inputs on impedance and voltage. Impedance on the output with TT2 is low enough to not be of any concern but the high output voltage is puzzling.

Experiment with settings and land on what works best for you in your system.
The TT2 is super quiet when it comes to noise floor and delivers excellent resolution and tone. Music emerges from a completely black backdrop and just floats. If you have equally capable amplification and speakers you will enjoy it even while listening at low levels.

Some complain about ergonomics, I have no issues there. The LED lit window and volume ball are kind of cool in a dark and can be dimmed. It’s impossible to memorize color to resolution mapping and in any case I can see the resolution of a streamed composition in my streamer app.

So overall awesome DAC! Enjoy!!!