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Chord Electronics ULTIMA INTEGRATED
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics’ legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.
Designed by Chord Electronics’ founder, owner and chief engineer, John Franks, the advanced ULTIMA circuit monitors and immediately corrects audio signals before the output stage, for astonishing signal accuracy from a one-box integrated device.
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED also takes advantage of the very latest developments in advanced low-distortion power supplies – devices offering exceptionally low noise and outstanding amplifier operation – for even greater fidelity.
A four-input design, one fully balanced and three unbalanced, all enjoy individual buffering and are selectively filtered against potential ingress from radio frequency interference; selection switching is via microprocessor-controlled sealed relays.
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is the first new Chord Electronics integrated amplifier for seven years and remains the sole full-width integrated model in the range.
All metalwork is precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminium, including Chord Electronics’ iconic Integra Legs. The fascia sports a 28-mm-thick front panel with a perfectly symmetrical aesthetic, centered around a spherical power on/off control with polychromatic lighting, flanked by illuminated volume and balance controls.
Other accessories & custom options
Argent silver Integra leg option
Jett black Integra leg option
Gloss black acrylic side block option (can not be stacked)
Inputs: 1x stereo balanced XLR inputs, 3x stereo unbalanced RCA
Outputs: 1x stereo XLR
1x stereo balanced XLR AV bypass input
1 x 12 V trigger output/input
Key Features
All-new design
Dual feed-forward error correction
AV bypass
Proprietary MOSFET
HF Switch mode power supply
Fully Balanced Circuitry
Included Top Light Ring
Solid Aluminium Chassis
Included Accessories
ULTIMA INTEGRATED Quickstart guide
Safety instructions
10A Mains IEC cable
IR system remote control
2x AAA batteries
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Chord Electronics ULTIMA INTEGRATED
The Ultima Integrated condenses Chord’s Ultima amplifier pedigree into a single, beautifully machined chassis, delivering a blend of power, control and musicality. Reviewers praise its ability to combine taut, well-defined bass with a warm, textured midrange and expansive imaging; SoundStage and HiFi News both note its wide, deep soundstage and confident dynamics. Internals centre on Chord’s dual feed-forward and 80kHz switch-mode PSUs, which reviewers credit for low noise, fast transient response and consistent headroom at 125W into 8 ohms. The minimalist analogue I/O and striking LED-ring controls underscore a performance-first design that pairs best with capable speakers. For listeners seeking a down-sized separates alternative that prioritises grip, tonal richness and precision, the Ultima Integrated is a compelling, well-built contender that earns frequent audition-list placements in its class.
Pros
- Powerful, controlled dynamics with exceptional transient grip and headroom, able to drive real-world speakers without strain.
- Wide, deep and well-layered soundstage with precise imaging and natural midrange tonality that preserves vocal texture.
- Top-tier build and industrial design: precision-machined aircraft‑grade aluminium, thoughtful ventilation and premium controls/remote.
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Cons
- Purist feature set—no onboard DAC, phono or headphone outputs—so users needing those functions must add external components.
- Can be pairing-sensitive: some reviewers note it may sound thin or less dynamically contrasted with ill-suited speakers.
Sound Quality
90/100
Dynamics
90/100
Reviewers report excellent timing, punch and control with ample headroom for real-world speakers and energetic transients (The Ear, Fidelity, SoundStage Solo). A minority note it could deliver slightly stronger dynamic contrasts versus some conventionally voiced rivals, but overall the amp is described as effortless, vice-free and capable of thunderous dynamics when required (What Hi‑Fi?, The Ear).
Soundstage Imaging
90/100
Many reviewers highlight a wide, deep and holographic soundstage with precise, stable imaging and good instrument placement (The Ear, Fidelity, SoundStage Solo, Audiophilepure). Some notes place the width within speaker edges but with notable depth and excellent layering and separation (Audiophilepure, What Hi‑Fi?).
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Build Quality
92/100
Build is repeatedly described as top‑notch: precision‑machined aircraft‑grade aluminium, 28mm front panel, substantial cooling fins and solid construction (StereoNET, HiFi News, The Ear). Controls and remote are high quality and the chassis/ventilation design is praised for thermal management and industrial finish.
Features Connectivity
86/100
A purist, all‑analogue feature set: three RCA and one balanced XLR input, balanced XLR pre-out, AV bypass (XLR), preouts and 12V trigger; no DAC, phono or headphone out (HiFi News, The Ear, StereoNET). Remote control and thoughtful implementation (relay switching, buffered XLR stages) add convenience but the streamlined I/O keeps it squarely in the performance-first camp.
Value for Money
90/100
At ~£8,500 / $11,250 reviewers generally judge the Ultima as a well‑judged premium offering that represents fine value in its class and is frequently recommended for audition (The Ear, StereoNET, hi-fi+). Commentary frames it as a product that justifies its price through performance and build rather than as a budget bargain.
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