Chord Electronics Ultima 6

The Chord Electronics Ultima 6 is a 180-watt stereo power amplifier and the entry point to ULTIMA-level power amplification. It uses the same dual feed-forward error correction topology found in Chord's reference mono blocks, delivered through 16 proprietary MOSFET output transistors and a 2kW switch-mode power supply operating at 70 kHz. Fully balanced from input to output, the Ultima 6 pairs with the Ultima Pre 3 or any preamplifier with balanced outputs.

Key Features

• 180W per channel into 8 ohms in stereo configuration
• ULTIMA dual feed-forward error correction derived from reference amplifier topology
• 16 proprietary MOSFET output transistors with close channel matching
• Fully balanced circuitry from input through output stage
• XLR balanced and RCA single-ended inputs
• 2kW high-frequency switch-mode power supply operating at 70 kHz
• Designed and built in Kent, England

Why We Carry Chord Electronics

Chord Electronics has been doing digital conversion differently since 1989. While every other manufacturer buys off-the-shelf DAC chips, Rob Watts designs custom FPGA algorithms with tap lengths that dwarf anything from ESS or AKM. Their proprietary Pulse Array technology, MOSFET amplification stages, and high-frequency switch-mode power supplies are all designed and built in Kent, England. From the portable Mojo 2 to the flagship DAVE, every product runs code that Chord wrote themselves.

ULTIMA Dual Feed-Forward Error Correction

Every ULTIMA amplifier uses Chord's dual feed-forward error correction circuit, a topology that applies correction at two separate points in the signal path rather than the single global feedback loop found in conventional amplifier designs. The error correction amplifier runs in parallel with the main signal amplifier, comparing the output against the input and correcting deviations in real time. The result is measurably lower distortion across the full power range, not just at low output levels where most amplifiers test well. At 180 watts, the Ultima 6 maintains this correction under real-world loads where speakers present complex impedance curves, not just on a resistive test bench.

Chord Electronics Ultima 6 Power Supply

The 2kW custom switch-mode power supply charges its capacitor banks up to 70,000 times per second. A conventional toroidal transformer operating at 50-60 Hz delivers energy in slow, massive pulses. Chord's SMPS delivers smaller, faster charges that track the music's demand more closely. When a bass transient hits and the amplifier needs current immediately, the power supply responds in microseconds rather than waiting for the next AC cycle. Operating at 70 kHz also means the switching frequency sits well above the audio band, so its activity cannot interfere with the musical signal.

Proprietary MOSFET Output Stage

Sixteen proprietary MOSFET output transistors are closely matched between left and right channels. Off-the-shelf MOSFETs vary in their electrical characteristics from unit to unit, which means the left channel and right channel of a conventional amplifier never behave identically under load. Chord specifies and matches their own devices to eliminate this asymmetry. The result is consistent stereo imaging that holds together even when the amplifier is working hard.

Fully Balanced Architecture

The Ultima 6 is fully balanced from its XLR input through the amplification stages to the speaker binding posts. Balanced operation rejects common-mode noise, which matters most on long cable runs between a preamplifier and power amplifier. If your source and preamp are across the room from your speakers, the Ultima 6 can sit next to the speakers with a long XLR run back to the preamp, keeping speaker cables short and noise out of the signal. RCA single-ended inputs are also provided for systems where balanced cabling is not available, though XLR is recommended for best performance.

The ULTIMA Range

The Ultima 6 is the most accessible stereo power amplifier in the ULTIMA lineup. For more power, the Ultima 5 delivers 350W per channel with 32 MOSFET output devices. For systems that need a combined preamp and power amp, the Ultima Integrated puts 125W and a five-input preamp section in one chassis. All ULTIMA amplifiers share the same dual feed-forward topology and proprietary MOSFET output stage.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Chord Electronics Ultima 6 Specifications