Description ⌄
Reference mono power amplifier from the Ultima range. The Chord Electronics ULTIMA 6 is the entry-level stereo power amplifier in the ULTIMA range, delivering 180W per channel into 8Ω and 350W into 4Ω via dual-feed-forward error-correction topology with 16 proprietary MOSFET power devices. A slew rate of 300V/µs and fully balanced circuitry ensure linearity across the full audio band. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs feed high-current gold-plated speaker binding posts.
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
Ultima pre-power builds at the entry point of the range; pairing with Ultima Pre 3 or Dave in a reference system High-end audiophile, Ultima Pre owner, speaker owner requiring serious power High-end stereo system, demanding loudspeaker driving
Awards & press
⭐ Hi-Fi World 5 Stars; Pursuit Perfect System Special Performer Award "Outstanding — among the best." — Hi-Fi World (5/5) "The Ultima 6 is one of the most extraordinary amplifiers we have heard — a genuine reference product at any price." — Hi-Fi+ "Chord's Ultima 6 delivers breathtaking dynamics and iron-fisted control whatever the load it is asked to drive." — Hi-Fi News
Features ⌄
- 75 W/channel Ultima topology — compact reference power amplifier
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
- 16 proprietary lateral-matched MOSFETs — continuously monitored output stage
- 0.5Hz–100kHz bandwidth — perfect from deep bass to ultrasonic frequencies
- 300V/µs slew rate — exceptional dynamic headroom for complex musical passages
- Bespoke switch-mode PSU with sophisticated mains input filter for silent backgrounds