Chord Electronics
Chord Ultima 6 Amplifier
Best power amplifier for audiophiles seeking pristine, high-fidelity sound reproduction.
The Chord Ultima 6 Amplifier is a stereo power amplifier from Chord Electronics' top-of-the-line ULTIMA series. It represents the latest update to the popular ULTIMA 5 power amp, offering a great selection of balanced and unbalanced inputs, along with high-quality loudspeaker outputs. This amplifier delivers up to 180 watts of clean power to your speakers, building upon its award-winning predecessor with Chord's ground-breaking next-generation ULTIMA amplifier topology. It features a lightning-fast response coupled with effortless power for astonishing dynamics and timing, delivering unrivaled fidelity. The ULTIMA 6 is designed for the finest hi-fi systems, sending pristine analogue audio from your favorite DAC or streamer and preamp to your speakers.
$11260.00
More ULTIMA Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1156
/ 1684
#1156 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+36%
Above average
Inputs
1
/ x Stereo Pair of Gold Plated Balanced XLR Inputs
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute transparency and musical detail
- Listeners using power-hungry speakers needing authoritative control
- Design-conscious owners who value premium, industrial-grade aesthetics
Who should skip it
- Budget-focused buyers looking for entry-level or mid-range value
- Apartment dwellers with limited rack space or weight restrictions
- Owners of modest systems who prefer a more forgiving sound
Performance breakdown
Transient Response
Dual-feed-forward topology delivers lightning-fast, precise musical transients.
Power Delivery
Effortless 180-watt output handles demanding speakers with absolute authority.
Signal Transparency
Ultra-low-distortion circuitry ensures the original recording remains completely uncolored.
Build Integrity
Aircraft-grade aluminum casing provides a rigid, vibration-resistant foundation.
Dynamic Range
Captures the subtle nuances between quiet passages and explosive crescendos.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced and unbalanced inputs accommodate a wide range of high-end sources.
Key Specs
Inputs
1x Stereo Pair of Gold Plated Balanced XLR Inputs
Inputs
1x Stereo Pair of Gold Plated Unbalanced RCA Inputs
Inputs
1x 12v Trigger Input
Output
1x Pair of High Quality, High Current, Gold Plated Type Speaker Terminals
Power Output
180 watts
Amplifier Topology
Next-generation ULTIMA
Circuit
Dual-feed-forward
Drive Circuitry
Ultra-low-distortion, high-voltage amplifier operating at 300 volts per microsecond
Features
- Chord's innovative clean-power technologies and custom high-end components
- Instantaneous power delivery with transparency and incredibly low distortion
- Timeless yet futuristic design consistent across the ULTIMA series
- Ground-breaking dual-feed-forward circuit for lightning-fast response
- Astonishing dynamics and timing for unrivaled fidelity
- 30 years in the making, Chord's new dual-feed-forward topology offers breakthrough performance
- ULTIMA amplifiers engineered for the finest hi-fi systems
- Recessed spherical polycarbonate power button with dimmable lighting
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Chord Ultima 6 Amplifier for its exceptional build quality and distinctive, sophisticated design. Owners frequently highlight its remarkable sonic performance, describing a powerful, transparent, and highly detailed soundstage that elevates their listening experience. While acknowledging its premium price point, the consensus points to a product that delivers on its promise of high fidelity audio and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a coveted centerpiece for serious audiophiles. The amplifier is seen as a significant investment that brings lasting satisfaction through its superior engineering and aesthetic appeal.
Know before you buy
The ULTIMA 6 incorporates Chord's next-generation dual-feed-forward amplifier topology. This update provides a faster, more precise response and improved fidelity compared to the previous model.
Yes, it is equipped with both gold-plated balanced XLR inputs and unbalanced RCA inputs, allowing for flexible integration with a wide range of preamps, DACs, and streamers.
The amplifier provides 180 watts of clean power. Its high-voltage design and 16 proprietary MOSFETs ensure it can drive demanding speakers with significant headroom and low distortion.
Yes, the unit includes a dedicated 12v trigger input, allowing it to be powered on or off automatically in sync with your other compatible hi-fi components.
The ULTIMA 6 is housed in a robust, aircraft-grade solid aluminum chassis with a substantial 28-mm-thick fascia. This construction is designed to minimize vibration and provide a stable, long-lasting foundation for the internal electronics.
Yes, the spherical power button features dimmable lighting, allowing you to adjust the brightness to suit your listening environment.
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