The Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated is a 125-watt integrated amplifier that puts the ULTIMA dual feed-forward error correction topology and a full preamp section into a single chassis. Four inputs (one XLR balanced, three RCA), an AV bypass, a pre-out, and 16 proprietary MOSFET output devices make this a complete amplification solution for systems that do not need separates. It is the only integrated amplifier in the ULTIMA range.
Key Features
- 125W per channel into 8 ohms
-
ULTIMA dual feed-forward error correction topology
-
16 proprietary MOSFET output transistors with close channel matching
-
Four inputs: 1x XLR balanced, 3x RCA single-ended
-
AV bypass input for home theater integration
-
Pre-out for adding an external power amplifier
- Pure analog signal path
- Proprietary high-frequency switch-mode power supply
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.
Why an Ultima Integrated Exists
Most manufacturers put their best technology in separates and offer integrated amplifiers as a compromise. Chord went the other direction. The Ultima Integrated uses the same dual feed-forward error correction circuit found in the Ultima 6 and Ultima 5 power amplifiers. The preamp section shares its design philosophy with the Ultima Pre 3. The difference is packaging: one box instead of two, with a shared power supply and shorter internal signal paths. For a system built around a single source (a Chord DAC, a streamer, a CD transport), the Integrated eliminates the interconnect between preamp and power amp entirely.
ULTIMA Topology at 125 Watts
The dual feed-forward error correction circuit monitors and corrects the output signal at two points in the amplification chain, catching distortion that single-loop feedback designs miss. At 125 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the Ultima Integrated has enough power for most speakers in typical listening rooms. The 16 proprietary MOSFET output transistors are closely matched between channels, maintaining stereo imaging accuracy even at high output. This is not a stripped-down version of the ULTIMA circuit. It is the same topology with a power output scaled to what an integrated amplifier reasonably needs.
AV Bypass and Pre-Out
The AV bypass input lets a home theater processor pass signal through the Ultima Integrated directly to the power amplifier section, skipping volume control. When the system switches to music, the Integrated takes over. The pre-out on the rear panel lets you add a separate power amplifier if you outgrow the internal 125 watts, turning the Integrated into a preamplifier feeding an Ultima 6 or Ultima 5 while keeping the same source switching and volume control.
Chord Electronics Ultima Integrated Power Supply
Chord's proprietary high-frequency switch-mode power supply delivers current to the amplifier stages faster than conventional toroidal designs. The SMPS operates above the audio band, so its switching frequency cannot interfere with the signal. In an integrated amplifier where the preamp and power amp share a chassis, keeping power supply noise out of the sensitive preamp stages matters even more than in separates. Chord's approach isolates the power delivery from the audio signal by frequency, not just by physical distance.
The ULTIMA Range
The Ultima Integrated is the simplest path into ULTIMA-level amplification. For those who want separates, the Ultima Pre 3 preamplifier and Ultima 6 power amplifier provide the same technology with more flexibility and upgrade potential. All ULTIMA products share the dual feed-forward topology and proprietary MOSFET output stage, designed and built in Kent, England. Available in black or silver finish.
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 Integrated Specifications
| Specification |
Detail |
| Product Type |
Integrated Amplifier |
| Amplifier Topology |
ULTIMA dual feed-forward error correction |
| Power Output |
125W per channel into 8 ohms |
| Output Devices |
16 proprietary MOSFET transistors (matched pairs) |
| Inputs |
4 total (1x XLR balanced, 3x RCA single-ended) |
| AV Bypass |
Yes |
| Pre-Out |
Yes |
| Power Supply |
Proprietary high-frequency switch-mode |
| Finish |
Black or Silver |
| Range |
ULTIMA |
| Designed & Built |
Kent, England |
