Audio T Verdict
Étude is one of those amplifiers whose dimensions don't really prepare you for what is inside. This compact Choral-series power amplifier delivers 150W per channel into 4 ohms and brings Chord Electronics' dual-feed-forward error-correction technology into a chassis only 33.5cm wide.
It offers balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, proprietary high-power MOSFETs and Chord Electronics' high-frequency switch-mode power supplies. For more demanding systems, Étude can also be bridged into mono operation to deliver 300W into 4 ohms.
It's a natural partner for DAVE, which can provide DAC and preamplifier duties, but there's nothing to stop Étude being used with another suitable preamplifier. For anyone wanting serious Chord amplification without moving to the much larger ULTIMA chassis, it remains a very appealing option.
Chord Electronics Étude Stereo Power Amplifier
Étude is a compact Class AB stereo power amplifier from Chord Electronics' Choral range.
Its core specification includes:
- 150W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- Bridgeable to 300W into 4 ohms
- Multi-feedback and dual-feed-forward error correction
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Proprietary high-power MOSFET output devices
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
- Three high-frequency switch-mode power supplies
- Active cooling
- Solid aluminium chassis
Dual-Feed-Forward Amplifier Technology
Étude introduced a fundamentally new amplifier topology for Chord Electronics, combining multi-feedback with dual-feed-forward error correction.
The circuit is designed to monitor and compensate for variations in the linearity of the output devices, with the aim of reducing distortion while maintaining the speed and control expected from Chord Electronics amplification.
Proprietary MOSFET Output Stage
The output stage uses custom Chord Electronics lateral-structure MOSFETs rather than generic off-the-shelf power devices.
These high-power transistors form a key part of the amplifier's error-correction topology and are supported by dedicated high-frequency power supplies.
150W Stereo or 300W Bridged Mono
Stereo Operation
Étude delivers 150W RMS per channel into 4 ohms at 0.05% distortion.
Bridged Mono Operation
A single Étude can be configured as a mono amplifier delivering up to 300W into 4 ohms.
Using two Étude amplifiers in bridged mode therefore provides a compact high-power mono amplifier for each loudspeaker.
Check Speaker Compatibility Before Bridging
Bridged amplifier operation changes the electrical demands placed on the amplifier. Always check loudspeaker impedance and system suitability before configuring Étude for mono operation.
Audio T can help establish whether stereo or bridged operation is the better choice for your loudspeakers.
Balanced XLR and RCA Inputs
Étude provides both:
- Stereo balanced XLR inputs
- Stereo unbalanced RCA inputs
Chord Electronics specifies an input impedance of 100k ohms for both balanced and unbalanced operation, making Étude straightforward to partner with suitable preamplifiers and variable-output DACs.
Designed for the Choral System
Étude shares its compact Choral-series footprint with products including DAVE, Prima and Symphonic.
DAVE is an especially natural partner because its built-in volume control allows it to operate directly as the preamplifier feeding Étude.
View Chord Electronics DAVE at Audio T.
High-Frequency Power Supplies and Active Cooling
Inside Étude are three high-frequency switch-mode power supplies: one for each active power rail and a further supply for the auxiliary circuitry.
The design also uses internal shielding and an actively cooled plenum chamber to manage operating temperature within the compact aluminium enclosure.
Allow Space for Ventilation
Étude is fan cooled, so it should be installed where airflow around the chassis is not obstructed. Avoid enclosing it in a tightly packed cabinet or covering its ventilation openings.
Compact Choral Construction
Despite its output capability, Étude measures just:
- Width: 335mm
- Depth: 175mm
- Height: 67mm
- Weight: 3.45kg
A dedicated Choral Ensemble Stand is available separately for combining Étude with other products from the range.
Key Features
- Chord Electronics Étude
- Choral-series stereo power amplifier
- Class AB sliding bias
- 150W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- Bridgeable to 300W into 4 ohms
- Dual-feed-forward error correction
- Multi-feedback amplifier topology
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Proprietary Chord MOSFETs
- Balanced XLR inputs
- Unbalanced RCA inputs
- 100k-ohm input impedance
- 30dB gain
- 0.02-ohm output impedance
- Three high-frequency switch-mode power supplies
- Active fan cooling
- Solid aluminium chassis
- 5Hz to 120kHz frequency range
- Better than 95dB channel separation
- Compact 335mm-wide design
- Compatible with DAVE
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chord Electronics Étude?
Étude is a compact stereo power amplifier from Chord Electronics' Choral range.
How much power does Étude produce?
150W RMS per channel into 4 ohms at 0.05% distortion.
Can Étude be bridged?
Yes. Chord Electronics specifies up to 300W into 4 ohms in bridged mono operation.
Can I use two Étude amplifiers as monoblocks?
Yes, subject to suitable loudspeaker impedance and correct bridged configuration.
Does Étude have balanced inputs?
Yes. Stereo balanced XLR inputs are provided alongside unbalanced RCA inputs.
Is Étude an integrated amplifier?
No. It is a power amplifier and requires a separate preamplifier or suitable variable-output source for volume control.
Can I connect DAVE directly to Étude?
Yes. DAVE has preamplifier functionality and is one of the partnering products specifically recommended by Chord Electronics.
Is Étude part of the ULTIMA range?
Étude is part of the Choral range. Its amplifier topology introduced the multi-feedback and dual-feed-forward error-correction approach that forms an important part of Chord Electronics' later amplification development.
Does Étude use a fan?
Yes. Chord Electronics specifies an actively cooled design.
What are Étude's dimensions?
335mm wide, 175mm deep and 67mm high.
How much does Étude weigh?
3.45kg.
What warranty does it have?
Étude carries a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Chord Electronics Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Loudspeaker matching advice
- Stereo and bridged-mono setup guidance
- DAVE and preamplifier matching
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- Speaker cable and termination guidance
- In-store demonstrations where appropriate
- Home demonstrations where appropriate
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store if you would like to demonstrate Chord Electronics Étude or discuss whether stereo or bridged-mono operation is best suited to your loudspeakers.