Chord Electronics has launched a new analogue preamplifier, the Ultima Pre 3. An entirely fresh design both inside and out, it benefits from the latest Chord Electronics preamplifier technologies, along with a striking new fascia design.
The Ultima Pre 3 harnesses more than 30 years of British amplifier-building expertise and takes advantage of the very latest developments in advanced low-distortion power supplies; these new devices offer “exceptionally low noise and outstanding amplifier operation. Coupled with the company’s latest circuit design, the Ultima Pre 3 offers new levels of preamplifier performance.”
With five analogue inputs, two balanced and three unbalanced, plus a separate AV bypass input, all five of the Ultima Pre 3’s main inputs enjoy individual buffering and are selectively filtered against potential ingress from radio frequency interference. Selection switching is performed via sealed relays, controlled by microprocessors.
All casework is precision-machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminium, including the Integra legs. A black acrylic side-block alternative to the Integra legs is also available as a no-cost option. The upper panel features a vented design, which is enhanced with a dimmable LED light.
In addition to its five inputs, the Ultima Pre 3’s rear panel features both balanced and unbalanced outputs, a 12 V trigger and IEC power inlet, plus a 5 V/3 A USB Type-A output to power peripheral devices, including Chord Electronics’ DACs such as the Qutest and Hugo 2. The Ultima Pre 3 is available to order now UK SRP: £6,000.