Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated 125 W Amplifier
Description
The Chord Electronics ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a high-performance 125-watt stereo integrated amplifier that brings Chord's advanced ULTIMA amplification technology into a single full-width component. Combining preamplifier and power-amplifier functionality, it delivers 125 watts per channel into 8Ω while providing flexible balanced and unbalanced analog connectivity.
Designed around Chord's proprietary dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, ULTIMA INTEGRATED continuously monitors and corrects the audio signal before the output stage. Combined with Chord's proprietary MOSFET output devices, advanced high-frequency switch-mode power supply, and fully balanced circuitry, the amplifier is engineered for precise, powerful control of high-performance loudspeaker systems.
ULTIMA Amplifier Technology
At the heart of ULTIMA INTEGRATED is Chord Electronics' advanced dual-feed-forward error-correction topology.
The circuit monitors the audio signal before the output stage and applies immediate correction to improve signal accuracy. This technology brings engineering developed for Chord's ULTIMA amplification range into the convenience of a single-box integrated amplifier.
The output stage incorporates 16 proprietary MOSFET devices, carefully matched so the left and right channels operate consistently.
125 Watts Per Channel
ULTIMA INTEGRATED delivers 125 W per channel into 8Ω, providing substantial power for a wide variety of high-performance loudspeakers.
Its advanced low-distortion high-frequency switch-mode power supply is designed to provide a stable, low-noise foundation for the amplifier circuitry, supporting both control and dynamic performance.
Four Analog Inputs
ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a pure-analog amplifier with four main stereo source inputs:
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1 × balanced XLR
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3 × unbalanced RCA
Each input is individually buffered and selectively filtered to help protect the signal path against potential radio-frequency interference. Source selection is handled using microprocessor-controlled sealed relays.
Because ULTIMA INTEGRATED does not contain a built-in DAC, digital sources require a separate DAC or another source component with analog outputs.
AV Bypass & Preamp Output
A dedicated balanced XLR AV-bypass input allows ULTIMA INTEGRATED to be incorporated into a system combining high-performance two-channel music reproduction with compatible home-theater electronics.
The AV-bypass connection routes the incoming signal through the amplifier while bypassing its normal volume control, allowing a compatible AV processor or receiver to manage level control for the home-theater system.
ULTIMA INTEGRATED also provides a balanced XLR preamplifier output, allowing an additional compatible power amplifier to be incorporated when required.
A 12 V trigger input/output provides convenient power-control integration with compatible components.
Precision-Machined ULTIMA Design
ULTIMA INTEGRATED is housed in a substantial chassis precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum.
Its 28 mm-thick front panel features Chord's distinctive illuminated spherical power control, positioned between illuminated volume and balance controls. The included Integra legs complete the full-width ULTIMA design, while optional gloss-black acrylic side blocks provide an alternative installation style.
An included IR system remote provides convenient control from the listening position.
Key Features
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125 W per channel into 8Ω
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Chord ULTIMA dual-feed-forward amplifier technology
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Fully balanced analog circuitry
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16 proprietary MOSFET power devices
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Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
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Dedicated balanced AV-bypass input
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Balanced XLR preamplifier output
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High-frequency switch-mode power supply
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chord Electronics ULTIMA INTEGRATED?
How much power does ULTIMA INTEGRATED deliver?
How many inputs does ULTIMA INTEGRATED have?
Does ULTIMA INTEGRATED have a built-in DAC?
What is the AV-bypass input used for?
Does ULTIMA INTEGRATED have a preamp output?
What is Chord's dual-feed-forward error-correction technology?
Does ULTIMA INTEGRATED include a phono stage?
Specifications
| TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Product Range | ULTIMA |
| Design | Pure Analog |
| Circuitry | Fully Balanced |
| Amplifier Technology | Dual-Feed-Forward Error Correction |
| Power Output | 125 W per Channel into 8Ω |
| Main Analog Inputs |
1 × Stereo Balanced XLR 3 × Stereo Unbalanced RCA |
| AV Bypass | 1 × Stereo Balanced XLR AV-Bypass Input |
| Preamplifier Output | 1 × Stereo Balanced XLR |
| Additional Connection | 1 × 12 V Trigger Input/Output |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz–200 kHz ±3 dB |
| THD | 0.01% from 20 Hz–20 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 90 dB on All Inputs |
| Input Impedance | 100 kΩ |
| Maximum Input Voltage |
Unbalanced — 3 V RMS Balanced — 6 V RMS |
| Maximum Output Voltage | 35 V RMS |
| Gain | 21 dB |
| Channel Separation | 100 dB |
| Operating Voltage | 80–250 V AC, Auto-Switching |
| Power Consumption |
Standby — 1 W Idle — 45 W Rated Output — 400 W |
| Dimensions with Included Integra Legs | 13 × 48 × 38 cm (H × W × D) |
| Dimensions with Optional Side Blocks | 11 × 43 × 38 cm (H × W × D) |
| Weight | 14.75 kg |
| WHAT'S INCLUDED | |
| Included Accessories |
ULTIMA INTEGRATED Quickstart Guide Safety Instructions 10 A IEC Mains Cable IR System Remote Control 2 × AAA Batteries |
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