Audio T Verdict
ULTIMA PRE 2 is built for systems where flexibility matters just as much as outright performance. With eight analogue inputs, balanced and unbalanced connectivity, adjustable gain for every source and dedicated recording loops, it can comfortably become the control centre of a substantial Hi-Fi system.
Its fully balanced analogue circuitry, ultra-low-noise design and carefully shielded electronics are intended to interfere as little as possible with the incoming signal. Add AV bypass, remote control and a front-mounted headphone output and this is considerably more versatile than its imposing appearance might suggest.
It is a natural partner for ULTIMA 2 or ULTIMA 3 power amplification, but can equally be used with another suitably matched power amplifier.
Chord Electronics ULTIMA PRE 2
ULTIMA PRE 2 is an eight-input analogue preamplifier from Chord Electronics' ULTIMA range.
Its fully balanced internal architecture combines proprietary low-noise solid-state circuitry with advanced shielding and Chord Electronics' high-frequency switch-mode power-supply technology.
Eight Analogue Inputs and Flexible System Control
Balanced Inputs
Four stereo XLR inputs provide balanced connectivity for suitably equipped source components.
Unbalanced Inputs
Four stereo RCA inputs accommodate conventional analogue sources, including two connections designated Tape 1 and Tape 2.
Every input can be individually gain matched using six selectable settings:
This is particularly useful when different source components produce noticeably different output levels.
Outputs, Recording Loops and AV Bypass
The main preamplifier output can be connected through either balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA, allowing ULTIMA PRE 2 to feed a stereo power amplifier or pair of monoblocks.
Two additional unattenuated RCA stereo outputs are provided for recording loops, while a dedicated balanced XLR AV-bypass input allows the power-amplifier section of a suitable system to be integrated with home cinema.
ULTIMA PRE 2 and Power Amplifiers
Chord Electronics specifically recommends ULTIMA 2 as a partnering power amplifier, while ULTIMA 3 and the stereo ULTIMA 5 are also natural system options depending on the loudspeakers and required output power.
Analogue Signal Path and Headphone Output
ULTIMA PRE 2 is an analogue preamplifier. It does not contain a DAC, streamer or phono stage, allowing each source component to be selected independently.
A high-resolution 6.35mm headphone output on the front panel also provides a convenient option for private listening without adding a separate headphone amplifier.
Volume adjustment is handled by a Blue Velvet ALPS potentiometer, while input and output buffering and extensive internal shielding help protect the low-level analogue signal.
Full-Size ULTIMA Construction
ULTIMA PRE 2 is housed in Chord Electronics' substantial aluminium casework and supplied with the company's Integra Leg system.
- Without Integra Legs: 420mm wide x 355mm deep x 133mm high
- With Integra Legs: 480mm wide x 355mm deep x 173mm high
- Weight: 18kg
The unit is convection cooled and includes Chord Electronics' illuminated top light ring and metal IR system remote control.
Key Features
- Eight-input analogue preamplifier
- Chord Electronics ULTIMA range
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Analogue signal path
- High-frequency switch-mode power supply
- Advanced internal shielding
- Input and output buffering
- Blue Velvet ALPS volume control
- 4 x stereo balanced XLR inputs
- 4 x stereo RCA inputs
- Six selectable gain settings
- Balanced XLR main output
- Unbalanced RCA main output
- 2 x unattenuated RCA recording outputs
- Balanced XLR AV bypass
- 6.35mm headphone output
- 12V system triggering
- Metal IR remote control
- Convection cooled
- Solid aluminium chassis
- Integra Legs included
- Black or Silver finish
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
How many inputs does ULTIMA PRE 2 have?
Eight stereo line inputs: four balanced XLR and four unbalanced RCA.
Can the input gain be adjusted?
Yes. Each input can use one of six gain settings from x0.5 to x3.
Does ULTIMA PRE 2 have balanced outputs?
Yes. The main stereo output is available through balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A 6.35mm headphone connection is provided on the front panel.
Does ULTIMA PRE 2 have a phono stage?
No. A turntable requires a separate phono stage such as Chord Electronics Huei or Symphonic.
Does it have a DAC?
No. ULTIMA PRE 2 is a pure analogue preamplifier.
What is AV bypass?
AV bypass allows a compatible AV processor to control the relevant channels while using the connected power amplifier for amplification.
Can it be used with ULTIMA 2 monoblocks?
Yes. Chord Electronics specifically lists ULTIMA 2 as a partnering product.
Can it be used with ULTIMA 3?
Yes. A pair of ULTIMA 3 monoblocks is another suitable configuration, subject to system matching.
What warranty does ULTIMA PRE 2 have?
Chord Electronics provides a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Chord Electronics Products
Why Buy From Audio T?
- ULTIMA system demonstrations
- Power amplifier and loudspeaker matching
- Balanced and unbalanced connection advice
- Source gain-matching guidance
- AV bypass setup advice
- 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 ULTIMA PRE 2 or discuss the best power-amplifier combination for your system.