Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated Reviewed by Hi-Fi+
Posted by The Sound Organisation on Jan 20th 2025
The Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated Amplifier represents a significant milestone for the British hi-fi company, bringing the famed ULTIMA technology from its high-end separates to a more integrated package that audiophiles are looking for. Founded by John Franks, a veteran of the avionics industry, Chord Electronics has a history of pushing the boundaries of audio engineering, drawing inspiration from aerospace principles like uncompromising design and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Chris Frankland of Hi-Fi+ recently had the opportunity to talk with Chord Electronics' John Franks and audition an Ultima Integrated to learn more about the technology behind it, but also the listening experience it can provide. Here's what he had to say:
A Legacy of Innovation:
Founder John Franks' background in avionics, with companies like Raytheon and Marconi Avionics, instilled in him a deep-seated understanding of precision and reliability. While the connecting line between high-end audio and high-flying avionics may not be immediately apparent, the two are more alike than you may think. The need for precision, reliability, pushing the envelope are key to developing both types of technology. This ethos is evident in Chord's commitment to advanced technologies, such as:
- Dual Feed-Forward Error Correction: Based on the pioneering work of Malcolm Hawksford and Bob Cordell, this technology actively monitors and corrects discrepancies in the amplifier's output, minimizing distortion and ensuring accurate signal reproduction.
- Ultra-High-Frequency Power Supplies: Operating at 80kHz, these power supplies offer exceptional speed and efficiency, minimizing noise and ensuring rapid response to dynamic musical demands. This approach, while initially challenging to implement, has become a cornerstone of Chord's amplifier designs.
The Ultima Integrated: A Masterpiece of Engineering
The Ultima Integrated embodies the ULTIMA core technologies. It features a robust and elegant design, housed in a precision-machined aluminum chassis that has become a staple for Chord Electronics' equipment. The amplifier operates in Class AB, delivering 125 watts per channel with exceptional speed and dynamic range.
Key features of the Ultima Integrated include:
- Sophisticated Power Supply: Employing multiple, smaller capacitors for faster response and minimizing noise.
- Sliding Bias Operation: Primarily operating in Class A for optimal sound quality with Class B operation reserved for demanding situations.
- High-Quality Components: Utilizing aerospace-grade MOSFETs and other carefully selected components.
- Minimalist Controls: Intuitive and easy to use with a focus on audio performance.
- Four Inputs: 1 stereo balanced XLR, 3 unbalanced RCA. ;All inputs are individual buffered and selectively filtered against potential ingress from radio frequency interference.
Listening Impressions:
The Ultima Integrated impressed reviewers with its effortless performance across a wide range of musical genres. It delivered a detailed and nuanced sound, accurately portraying the subtleties of instrumental timbre and vocal nuances. The amplifier excelled in conveying the dynamics and pace of music, from delicate acoustic passages to high-energy rock tracks. Its powerful and controlled bass response, combined with a clear and transparent midrange, provided a captivating listening experience.
"Whether it was delicate guitar work from Larry Carlton or Earl Klugh, scorching sax from Dave Koz or David Sanborn, heartfelt vocals from Linda Ronstadt, or hardcore rocking from ZZ Top, the Ultima handled it all with control, detail rendition, and dynamics while holding it all together as a musical whole. The integrated amp market has heated up in recent years, and buyers are spoilt for choice for good-sounding amps. Thanks to the Ultima, things just got even hotter. If you are in the market at this price point, you should consider the Chord Electronics Ultima."
Conclusion:
The Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated amplifier represents a significant achievement in high-end audio design. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies and drawing upon years of engineering expertise, Chord has created a truly exceptional integrated amplifier that delivers both sonic excellence and visual elegance. While the price point is significant, the Ultima Integrated offers a compelling proposition for discerning audiophiles seeking a reference-level performance in a single, integrated package.