Audio T Verdict
ULTIMA 3 is the more compact of Chord Electronics' two ULTIMA-series monoblocks, but 480W into 8 ohms and 1,000W into 4 ohms still puts some serious power behind each loudspeaker.
It uses the same core dual-feed-forward error-correction technology found throughout the modern ULTIMA range, together with fully balanced circuitry, proprietary MOSFET output devices and Chord Electronics' high-frequency switch-mode power-supply technology.
A stereo system requires a pair, naturally partnering ULTIMA PRE 2 but equally capable of working with another suitable preamplifier. At this level we'd strongly recommend hearing the complete amplifier and loudspeaker combination before making a decision.
Chord Electronics ULTIMA 3
ULTIMA 3 is a 480W mono power amplifier within Chord Electronics' full-size ULTIMA range. Each amplifier powers one loudspeaker channel, providing completely separate amplification for the left and right channels when used as a stereo pair.
Key technologies include Class AB sliding-bias operation, fully balanced circuitry, dual-feed-forward error correction, proprietary Chord Electronics MOSFETs and a high-frequency switch-mode power supply.
ULTIMA Technology and Power
Chord Electronics' ULTIMA topology combines conventional feedback with its proprietary dual-feed-forward error-correction system, designed to monitor and correct errors before the output stage.
Into 8 Ohms
480W RMS with 0.005% THD.
Into 4 Ohms
1,000W RMS for more demanding loudspeaker loads.
Gain is specified at 30dB, with a 100k-ohm input impedance and 0.04-ohm output impedance.
Balanced and Unbalanced Connections
ULTIMA 3 provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, with inverted and non-inverted connections available for each.
- 1 x balanced XLR non-inverted input
- 1 x balanced XLR inverted input
- 1 x gold-plated RCA non-inverted input
- 1 x gold-plated RCA inverted input
- 1 x 12V trigger input
- 2 x pairs of high-current gold-plated loudspeaker terminals
The twin speaker-terminal pairs also make bi-wiring straightforward where the loudspeakers support it.
A Pair Is Required for Stereo
ULTIMA 3 is a monoblock amplifier. A conventional two-channel system therefore requires two amplifiers, with one dedicated to each loudspeaker.
System Matching
Chord Electronics currently recommends ULTIMA PRE 2 as the principal partnering preamplifier, with DAVE and Symphonic also forming natural parts of a complete Chord Electronics system.
Audio T Swansea has demonstrated ULTIMA 3 monoblocks with ULTIMA PRE 2, DAVE and ATC SCM50 loudspeakers during a dedicated Chord Electronics ULTIMA event.
View Chord Electronics ULTIMA PRE 2
View Chord Electronics DAVE
Read: Chord Electronics ULTIMA Roadshow at Audio T Swansea
Full-Size Aluminium Construction
ULTIMA 3 uses a substantial CNC-machined aluminium chassis with a 28mm-thick front panel, illuminated power control and dimmable feature lighting.
With the included Integra Legs fitted, dimensions are:
- Width: 480mm
- Height: 180mm
- Depth: 360mm
- Weight: 22.4kg each
Optional gloss-black acrylic side blocks reduce the width to 420mm and height to 150mm. The side-block configuration cannot be stacked.
Installation and Ventilation
ULTIMA 3 is convection cooled. Allow adequate airflow around each amplifier and make sure the supporting rack can comfortably accommodate the dimensions and 22.4kg weight of each monoblock.
Key Features
- 480W mono power amplifier
- 1,000W into 4 ohms
- Chord Electronics ULTIMA range
- Dual-feed-forward error correction
- Class AB sliding bias
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Proprietary Chord MOSFETs
- High-frequency switch-mode power supply
- 0.005% THD
- 30dB gain
- 100k-ohm input impedance
- 0.04-ohm output impedance
- Balanced XLR inputs
- Unbalanced RCA inputs
- Inverted and non-inverted inputs
- Bi-wireable speaker terminals
- 12V trigger input
- Convection cooled
- Dimmable feature lighting
- Solid aluminium chassis
- Integra Legs included
- Jett Black or Argent Silver
- Made in the United Kingdom
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ULTIMA 3 a stereo amplifier?
No. It is a mono power amplifier, so two are required for a conventional stereo system.
How much power does ULTIMA 3 produce?
Chord Electronics specifies 480W RMS into 8 ohms and 1,000W RMS into 4 ohms.
What is ULTIMA technology?
It is Chord Electronics' proprietary amplifier architecture incorporating dual-feed-forward error correction, high-frequency power supplies and proprietary MOSFET output devices.
Does ULTIMA 3 have balanced inputs?
Yes. Balanced XLR inputs are provided alongside unbalanced RCA connections.
Is ULTIMA 3 fully balanced?
Yes. Chord Electronics specifies fully balanced internal circuitry.
Which preamplifier is designed to partner ULTIMA 3?
Chord Electronics currently recommends ULTIMA PRE 2.
Can DAVE be used with ULTIMA 3?
Yes. DAVE has variable analogue output and preamplifier functionality and is listed by Chord Electronics as a partnering product.
Can I bi-wire my loudspeakers?
Yes. Two pairs of high-current loudspeaker terminals are provided.
How large is ULTIMA 3?
With the supplied Integra Legs it measures 480mm wide, 180mm high and 360mm deep.
What warranty does ULTIMA 3 have?
Chord Electronics provides a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Chord Electronics Products
Why Buy From Audio T?
- ULTIMA system demonstrations
- Loudspeaker and amplifier matching advice
- ULTIMA PRE 2 and DAVE system guidance
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- Rack and installation 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 ULTIMA 3 or discuss matching a pair with your loudspeakers and preamplifier.