Audio T Verdict
ULTIMA 2 is a serious monoblock for systems built around demanding loudspeakers. Each amplifier looks after one channel and delivers 750W into 8 ohms, rising to 1,305W into 4 ohms.
Power is only part of the story. Inside is Chord Electronics' dual-feed-forward ULTIMA topology, fully balanced circuitry, proprietary MOSFET output devices and high-frequency switch-mode power supplies.
A pair naturally partners ULTIMA PRE 2, although DAVE or another suitable preamplifier can also provide system control. At this level, we'd strongly recommend arranging a demonstration with the loudspeakers and source electronics you intend to use.
Chord Electronics ULTIMA 2
ULTIMA 2 is a high-current mono power amplifier from Chord Electronics' ULTIMA range. One amplifier is required for each loudspeaker channel in a conventional stereo system.
Its core specification includes:
- 750W RMS into 8 ohms
- 1,305W RMS into 4 ohms
- Dual-feed-forward error correction
- Class AB sliding-bias operation
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Proprietary Chord Electronics MOSFETs
- High-frequency switch-mode power supply
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
- Two pairs of loudspeaker terminals for bi-wiring
- 12V trigger input
ULTIMA Dual-Feed-Forward Technology
ULTIMA represents Chord Electronics' modern amplifier topology, using dual-feed-forward error correction alongside conventional feedback techniques.
The circuitry continuously addresses errors within the amplifier's output stage, while proprietary MOSFET devices and high-speed drive circuitry handle the loudspeaker load.
ULTIMA 2 operates in Class AB with sliding bias and is fully balanced internally.
750W Into 8 Ohms
8 Ohms
750W RMS with a published THD figure of 0.005%.
4 Ohms
1,305W RMS, providing substantial output capability for demanding loudspeakers.
Output impedance is specified at 0.04 ohms, with 30dB of gain and a 100k-ohm input impedance for both balanced and unbalanced connections.
Balanced and Unbalanced Inputs
The rear panel provides separate inverted and non-inverted inputs:
- 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
Two pairs of high-current gold-plated loudspeaker terminals are provided, allowing straightforward bi-wiring where required.
Built for High-End Pre/Power Systems
Chord Electronics lists ULTIMA PRE 2 as the natural partnering preamplifier for ULTIMA 2. A pair of monoblocks can also be driven by another suitably compatible preamplifier or variable-output source.
View Chord Electronics ULTIMA PRE 2
View Chord Electronics DAVE
Monoblock Amplification
A stereo system requires two ULTIMA 2 amplifiers, one for the left channel and one for the right. This gives each channel its own amplifier chassis and power supply.
Full-Size ULTIMA Construction
ULTIMA 2 uses a substantial precision-machined aluminium chassis with a 28mm-thick front panel and dimmable feature lighting.
The included Integra Leg system gives overall dimensions of:
- Width: 480mm
- Height: 180mm
- Depth: 750mm
- Weight: 41.15kg each
Optional polished acrylic side blocks reduce the overall width and height to 420mm and 150mm respectively, while retaining the 750mm depth.
Allow Adequate Space
ULTIMA 2 is convection cooled and each amplifier weighs more than 41kg. Check rack dimensions, weight capacity, ventilation and access before installation.
Key Features
- Mono power amplifier
- Current Chord Electronics ULTIMA range
- 750W RMS into 8 ohms
- 1,305W RMS into 4 ohms
- 0.005% THD
- Dual-feed-forward error correction
- Class AB sliding bias
- Fully balanced circuitry
- Proprietary Chord MOSFETs
- High-frequency switch-mode power supply
- Balanced XLR inputs
- Unbalanced RCA inputs
- Inverted and non-inverted inputs
- 100k-ohm input impedance
- 0.04-ohm output impedance
- 30dB gain
- Bi-wireable speaker terminals
- 12V trigger input
- Convection cooled
- Dimmable feature lighting
- Solid aluminium chassis
- Integra Legs included
- Optional acrylic side blocks
- Jett Black or Argent Silver
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ULTIMA 2 a stereo amplifier?
No. It is a mono power amplifier, so two units are required for a conventional two-channel stereo system.
How much power does ULTIMA 2 produce?
Chord Electronics specifies 750W RMS into 8 ohms and 1,305W RMS into 4 ohms.
Does ULTIMA 2 have balanced inputs?
Yes. Balanced XLR inputs are provided alongside unbalanced RCA connections.
What is ULTIMA technology?
It is Chord Electronics' modern amplifier architecture using proprietary dual-feed-forward error correction alongside its high-frequency power-supply and MOSFET technologies.
Is ULTIMA 2 Class A?
No. Chord Electronics specifies Class AB sliding-bias operation.
Which preamplifier is designed to match it?
Chord Electronics currently lists ULTIMA PRE 2 as its principal partnering preamplifier.
Can I use DAVE directly with ULTIMA 2?
DAVE provides variable analogue output and preamplifier functionality, so it can form part of a suitably configured ULTIMA 2 system.
Can the loudspeakers be bi-wired?
Yes. Two pairs of loudspeaker terminals are provided.
How heavy is ULTIMA 2?
Each amplifier weighs approximately 41.15kg.
What warranty does ULTIMA 2 have?
Chord Electronics provides a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- ULTIMA system demonstrations
- Loudspeaker matching advice
- ULTIMA PRE 2 and DAVE system guidance
- Balanced and unbalanced connection advice
- Rack, ventilation 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 discuss or demonstrate a Chord Electronics ULTIMA 2 system.