ÉTUDE

Reference stereo power amplifier — the most powerful in the Choral range. The Chord Electronics Étude is a stereo power amplifier from the Choral range delivering 150W per channel into 4Ω via Chord's multi-feedback and dual feed-forward error-correction topology. The aluminium chassis uses three independent high-frequency switch-mode power supplies and an actively cooled plenum chamber for thermal management. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo inputs are provided, and the amplifier is fully balanced throughout.

Technical background

Chord's ULTIMA amplifier topology, developed by company founder John Franks, applies dual feed-forward error-correction ahead of the output stage. Rather than relying solely on negative feedback to correct distortion after the fact, ULTIMA continuously monitors and corrects the signal before it reaches the power transistors. The result is vanishingly low measured distortion with none of the sonic side-effects associated with high global feedback. Custom-specified proprietary MOSFETs, high-frequency switch-mode power supplies, and aircraft-grade aluminium casework complete the engineering picture.

Design story

Chord Electronics was founded in Maidstone, Kent in 1989 by John Franks, whose background in aerospace electronics shaped every design decision. Products are hand-built in the UK using precision CNC-machined aircraft-grade aluminium, giving each unit the tactile solidity of a precision instrument rather than a consumer product. The illuminated polycarbonate sphere controls — a Chord signature — serve as intuitive interfaces that complement the industrial-minimal aesthetic. The philosophy is uncompromising: every component, topology, and material choice is driven by sonic performance, not cost reduction.

Best for

Choral or Ultima pre-power builds; speaker enthusiasts wanting a high-power stereo amp with Chord pedigree High-end hi-fi system builder, Prima or Ultima Pre owner Hi-fi stereo system, bridged mono for demanding speakers

Awards & press

⭐ Hi-Fi World 5 Stars; What Hi-Fi? 5 Stars "Small, powerful and impressive." — Hi-Fi World (5/5) "The Étude is a revelation — compact dimensions concealing truly extraordinary amplifier performance." — Hi-Fi+ "Chord's Étude is a benchmark stereo power amplifier that sets a new standard at its price point." — Hi-Fi News