In a bold leap forward for high-performance audio, Chord Electronics has introduced its most impressive and uncompromising range yet—the ULTIMA series. Crafted through over three decades of relentless research, engineering ingenuity, and British craftsmanship, the ULTIMA range represents the ultimate expression of technological innovation in audiophile amplification, setting new standards in power, transparency, and musical fidelity.
The ULTIMA PRE: The Perfect Partner for the Pinnacle of Sound
At the heart of the ULTIMA range stands the ULTIMA PRE, a true masterpiece designed to complement the flagship ULTIMA mono power amplifiers. With imposing double-height dimensions and an aesthetic crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium, the ULTIMA PRE showcases Chord’s legendary build quality and sophisticated engineering.
Built with true dual-mono architecture, it features separate ultra-high-frequency power supplies for each channel—ensuring exceptional channel separation and accurate stereo imaging. The inclusion of low-noise circuitry elevates its performance to extraordinary levels, achieving a noise floor beyond -117dB for pristine clarity.
Offering a full suite of inputs and outputs—including balanced connectivity and fascia-mounted separate frequency EQ controls—this preamp provides unmatched flexibility for the most demanding high-end systems. An array of headphone outputs brings added versatility for late-night listening sessions, making it a perfect integrated component for discerning audiophiles and music lovers alike.
Handcrafted Excellence and Shielded Design
Each ULTIMA PRE is meticulously hand-built within Chord’s Kent factory, overseen by a dedicated technician to ensure the highest standards. Sensitive internal circuitry is protected by solid milled aluminium shielding, guarding against RF interference, while the chassis, crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium, provides resonance-free housing for pure sound transmission. The legendary Integra Leg System further stabilizes the unit, ensuring the best possible stability and performance.
The ULTIMA Mono Power Amplifier: Power Without Compromise
The flagship ULTIMA mono power amplifiers epitomize Chord’s 34-year legacy of technological mastery. Engineered to effortlessly drive the most demanding large loudspeakers, these amplifiers deliver unsurpassed power and control—unlocking new levels of realism and dynamic range.
At the core is a groundbreaking dual-feedforward error correction topology, refined from the seminal work of Dr. Malcolm J. Hawksford and Bob Cordell at Bell Labs. This innovative circuit design features 64 proprietary MOSFETs with drive circuitry that offers ultra-low distortion and high-speed operation—delivering an astonishing 300 volts per microsecond.
The ULTIMA mono amps boast formidable specifications: 780W into 8 ohms, 1,400W into 4 ohms, and a staggering 2,500W into 2 ohms. Their peak output current exceeds 500 amps—capable of swiftly and precisely delivering the dynamics, timing, and emotional resonance that define audiophile excellence.
Cutting-Edge Technology for the Most Demanding Systems
ULTIMA’s innovative dual-feedforward topology, combined with advanced ultra-high-frequency power supplies, pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in high-end amplification. The design ensures that every transient and musical nuance is reproduced with startling clarity—an experience that elevates audiophile listening to art form.
This level of technical prowess also enables the ULTIMA series to seamlessly drive virtually any loudspeaker, regardless of complexity or load, making it the ideal choice for the world’s most prestigious and demanding hi-fi systems.
