Description ⌄
Reference integrated amplifier — the entry point to Chord's flagship Ultima system. The Chord Electronics ULTIMA Integrated is a high-power integrated amplifier delivering 125W into 8Ω via Chord's proprietary dual-feed-forward error-correction MOSFET output stage and ultra-high-frequency switch-mode power supply. It accepts one balanced XLR and three unbalanced RCA inputs, plus an AV bypass, and provides a balanced XLR output for additional equipment. The ULTIMA aesthetic chassis uses Integra legs as standard and optional side blocks.
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
Audiophiles wanting Ultima performance in a single integrated box; simplifying a high-end system without compromise High-end audiophile wanting reference amplification without separate pre/power components High-end integrated hi-fi system, simplifying from pre/power separates
Awards & press
⭐ StereoNET Applause Award; The Speaker Shack 5-Star Reference Award "Delivers a large dose of the pricier Ultima pre/power's performance in a more convenient package." — What Hi-Fi? "The Ultima Integrated is a tour de force — possibly the finest integrated amplifier we have encountered at any price." — Hi-Fi News "Chord's Ultima Integrated combines reference preamplification with devastating power output in a single chassis." — Hi-Fi+
Features ⌄
- Ultima amplifier topology — the same circuit used in the Chord DAVE
- Built-in FPGA DAC with full digital input suite
- 60 W / channel Class AB — drives virtually any loudspeaker
- Aerospace-grade aluminium — precision-machined stackable design built for life
- Balanced XLR preamp output — expandable to active loudspeakers or a second power amp
- AV bypass input for seamless home cinema integration