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Chord Electronics

Ultima 3 Mono Power Amp

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Chord's flagship ULTIMA amplifier topology has been integrated into a new mono power amplifier as part of Chord's ongoing 30th-anniversary celebrations, introducing ULTIMA 3.

The new ULTIMA amplifier topology (which to date has been exclusive to the range-topping ULTIMA power amp), is now more affordable than ever before having trickled down into the new ULTIMA 3 mono power amp, which is every bit a Chord Electronics thoroughbred and shares the same winning formula as its range-topping cousin.

The silver ULTIMA 3 head-on: the 28 mm fascia with the CHORD badge and the recessed cyan power sphere, the lit vent ovals above and the blue underglow below

The new 480-watt ULTIMA 3 replaces the SPM 1400 MKII and sits in the Full Size range. The amp has been given a remodelled fascia featuring John Franks' latest design. The precision CNC-machined fascia is made from aircraft-grade aluminium and features a reassuringly solid 28-mm thick front panel, enhanced by a recessed spherical polycarbonate power button that illuminates for standby and operation modes; a discreet and hidden front panel switch neatly located in the vertical split line, enables the lighting to be dimmed.

Like all of Chord Electronics' full-size and Reference range amplifiers, the new ULTIMA 3 is available in a choice of Jett Black or Argent Silver finishes. The amplifier can also be specified with either the famous stackable Integra Leg system in Jett Black, Argent Silver or Nickel finishes or the highly polished black acrylic side block option. The amplifier's rear panel contains both balanced and unbalanced connections, high-quality loudspeaker terminals, a 12V trigger and a C-19-type IEC.

More photographs

The silver ULTIMA 3 in three-quarter view: the CHORD badge and cyan sphere on the fascia, the cylindrical Integra pillars at the flank and the lit vents on the top panel
The silver ULTIMA 3 from above: the blue-lit circle and arc vent pattern, the four ball-topped Integra legs and the four gold binding posts along the rear edge
Rear of the silver ULTIMA 3: the finned flanks around the terminal plate with four binding posts, balanced and unbalanced inputs and the C-19 mains inlet

The story on this page is Chord Electronics's own, reprinted by Joenit, its official distributor.