Recently, I found myself yearning to dive back into the world of speakers. As many of you know, I’m the proud owner of a pair of Martin Logan ESL-11A speakers, which I’ve previously reviewed. I still adore them, but life, especially with two little ones scampering around the house and needing quiet for their naps and night sleep, has made it challenging to fully enjoy these beauties.

Most of my recent listening sessions have been through headphones, a practical choice given my nocturnal listening habits. But there’s something about speakers that headphones just can’t match. So, I decided it was high time to rekindle my love affair with my speakers.

In my quest to explore new offerings in the speaker world, I reached out to avstore for some new auditory toys to experiment with. They certainly delivered beyond my expectations. They lent me the new Chord Ultima Integrated Speaker amplifier, and let me tell you, it wasn’t just an addition to my setup; it was the beginning of an exhilarating, magical journey in sound that I didn’t anticipate. This amplifier didn’t just impress me; it completely blew me away.

You can find the video review here:

Intro and specs

The Chord Ultima Integrated is not just another amplifier in the market; it’s a statement from Chord Electronics, marking their triumphant return to integrated amplifiers after seven years. This model stands alone as the only full-width integrated offering in their lineup.

While a comprehensive list of technical specifications is available here, I’d like to highlight a few key features that really define the Ultima’s listening experience:

• Build Quality: The chassis, crafted from solid aircraft-grade aluminium, is not only robust but aesthetically pleasing, with a striking and unique design.
• Advanced Circuitry: Developed by John Franks, the ULTIMA circuit ensures astonishing signal accuracy, courtesy of its dual-feed-forward error-correction topology.
• Power and Precision: With a 125-watt output into 8Ω, the amplifier provides plenty of power without compromising on detail or clarity.
• Connectivity: It offers four inputs (one fully balanced, three unbalanced), each individually buffered and filtered, ensuring pristine signal integrity.
• Sound Quality Enhancers: The inclusion of Chord Electronics’ proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies and advanced low-distortion power supplies significantly boosts fidelity.

Frequency response
10 Hz-200 kHz +/- 3 dB
THD
0.01 % 20 Hz-20 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio
90 dB on all inputs
Input impedance
100 kΩ
Input maximum voltage
3 V RMS
Output maximum voltage
35 V RMS
Gain
21dB
Channel separation
100 dB
Operation voltage
80-250 V AC auto-switching 
Power output
125 W into 8Ω
Power consumption
 200 W

Dimensions with included Integra legs:
13 cm(H) x 48 cm(W) x 38 cm(D)
Dimensions with optional side blocks (can not be stacked):
11 cm(H) x 43 cm(W) x 38 cm (D)
Weight:
14.75 kg

Listening Impressions and tests

Before diving in, it’s important to lay out the equipment I used for this test. My setup was as follows: PC Matrix Element H powered by the Keces P8 linear power supply -> Audioquest Diamond USB -> Denafrips Gaia -> (i2s Audioquest Diamond) -> Rockna Wavelight (with balanced XLR 5.8v output, using Audioquest Sky XLR) -> Holo Bliss KTE as Pre for Benchmark AHB2, Martin Logan ESL-11A Speakers.

For the purpose of this review, Avstore, also provided me with a few cable goodies that I have used in the tests: Charlin Stars XLR Interconnects, Charlin Stars Speaker Cables and Charlin Stars Power Cables.

I also tested a few headphones (very carefully) directly on the speaker outputs from the Chord Ultima Amp. I did not have Susvara for tests, but with Meze Elite it was not silent enough, I could hear the noise quite clearly on the headphones. I wouldn’t recommend getting it for headphone use.

I must mention the remarkable impact of the cables on the performance of the Chord Ultima Integrated. They really amplified its strengths, creating an even more impressive sound experience.

To share a taste of what the Ultima Integrated and the system in general can do, I’ve recorded how my system sounds with it. I used my phone, but more crucially, a Shure MV88+ Microphone, which does a decent job capturing a glimpse of the live sound quality. I chose to keep the video dark intentionally, as I feel my room’s aesthetics need a bit more tweaking before I’m ready to show it off publicly. But the focus here is on the sound, which I believe the recording captures quite effectively.

Let’s dive into some music. If you want a peek into the experience, the picture below is quite descriptive.

Leo Kotkke – Don’t Call me Ray | Standing in my shoes

The first notes struck by the Chord Ultima Integrated on this track were a revelation. The ESL-11A, known for its subtlety up to 300hz, suddenly unleashed a new depth of bass I hadn’t experienced before. It wasn’t just about the increased punch; there was a newfound control and detail that made each note resonate more profoundly. When the guitars came in, they were not just strings being plucked but vibrant stories being told. The energy, the life in each strum, was almost tangible, as if the guitarists were right there in the room with me.

Polyphia – Playing God

The track ‘Playing God’ by Polyphia was a powerhouse showcase for the Ultima Integrated. The dynamic slam and punch of the bass and drums were like an adrenaline shot to the heart of the music, making each beat feel like a pulse of raw, unbridled energy. The guitar solos, with their intricate riffs and lightning-fast licks, were not just heard but felt, as if the amplifier was channeling the very essence of the band’s creative force.

Better Days – Currents

Listening to ‘Better Days’ by Currents was an auditory thunderstorm. The Ultima Integrated brought out a rock-hard grittiness and raw power in my speakers that I hadn’t known they were capable of. Each guitar riff and drum hit was a visceral experience, rich in texture and intensity, showing off the amplifier’s ability to balance brute force with a pristine clarity in the midst of chaotic, high-energy tracks.

Abba – Voulez Vous

With ‘Voulez Vous’ by Abba, the Ultima Integrated transformed a classic pop track into a powerhouse of rhythm and vigor. The bass lines, usually subtle and supporting, became commanding and dance-inducing. The harmonies were crystal clear, allowing each vocal layer to shine, proving the amplifier’s versatility across genres.

2 Cellos – Sweet Child O’Mine & More 2Cellos Songs

With the Chord Ultima Integrated, my experience with the 2 Cellos transcended to an emotional odyssey. Each bow stroke on the cello strings didn’t just produce sound; it crafted an emotional narrative that vibrated through the room. The depth and resonance of the cellos were magnified, creating a physical sensation of the instruments’ vibrations. It was as if the Ultima Integrated didn’t just play music; it breathed life into each note, making the cellos sing with a clarity and passion that was almost overwhelming.

Johnny Cash – God’s Gonna Cut You Down

Johnny Cash’s ‘God’s Gonna Cut You Down’ took on a new life. The rustic twangs of the guitar and the haunting depth of Cash’s vocals were rendered with such authenticity it was spine-tingling. The Ultima Integrated captured the soulful, gritty essence of the song, making each word and note resonate with the weight of Cash’s legendary presence.

812 Overture in F major Op. 49 & Nielsen Symphony No. 3

The 1812 Overture and Nielsen’s Symphony No. 3 were like being transported to the grandest of concert halls. The Ultima Integrated delivered each orchestral layer with such distinction and clarity; from the delicate tinkle of a triangle to the resounding boom of the cannons, every sound was a brushstroke in an auditory masterpiece. The symphony’s crescendos were a tidal wave of sound, displaying the amplifier’s breathtaking ability to handle complex, dynamic shifts.

Death Row

On ‘Death Row’, the precision of the Ultima Integrated was front and center. The subtle nuances of the drum’s timbre and the texture of the vocals painted a haunting, immersive soundscape. The depth and detail in the background effects created an enveloping atmosphere, demonstrating the amplifier’s prowess in delivering a multi-layered and nuanced auditory experience.

Summary

Bass

The bass performance with the Ultima Integrated is nothing short of monstrous. It’s stunningly powerful. Despite my speakers being active up to 300hz, the difference was more than I could have imagined. The bass has an incredible punch, control, detail, and an unexpected depth. It’s as if I’ve somehow treated my room for better bass. The impact, slam, detail, and energy in the bass are irresistibly addictive.

Midrange

The midrange with this amplifier is a revelation. It feels as though Thor himself is residing in the amplifier, commanding the speakers with unmatched control. The midrange bursts with life, energy, and rich detail. It’s a contagious energy that electrifies every note. Electric guitars crackle with electricity, vocals spring to life, and cellos resonate, transporting you to a universe of pure, vibrant energy.

Treble

The ESL-11A, by nature, isn’t a bright speaker, but capable of smooth and natural treble and it certainly benefits from quality amplification to unlock its treble potential. The Ultima Integrated excels in this, enhancing the treble without adding any brightness. The result is a balanced, detailed treble with a satisfying attack and energy.

Dynamics/Slam/Timing

The dynamics of this amplifier are a topic unto themselves. It brings an electrifying life to the speakers, like a burst of Thor’s lightning. The energy boost is phenomenal. The attack is explosively dynamic, akin to a strike from Mjolnir, while the decay is detailed yet natural. The precision in imaging and leading edges is impressive, layering the music in a way that allows you to focus on each instrument individually. The combination of precision and timing results in a vibrant, dynamic sound that still flows effortlessly and naturally.

Details

The detail retrieval of the Ultima Integrated is astounding. Details emerge from all directions, surprising you because of how naturally they are presented. Nothing feels forced, yet every aspect is incredibly detailed and textured.

Tonality/Purity

The tonality of this amplifier is a significant accomplishment. It manages to impress in all areas without sacrificing natural tonality. Instruments and vocals are textured in a way that’s detailed yet natural, making the music feel alive. It’s almost as if touching the texture of an instrument merges you into one with the music and its vibrations.

Soundstage

My speakers excel in many areas, and the soundstage is one of their strengths. However, unlocking their full potential requires a powerful amplifier, and the Chord Ultima does this with ease and mastery. I was enamored with the depth in each song and how holographic and real the experience felt.

Comparison to AHB2

When I pitted my AHB2 against the Chord Ultima Integrated Amplifier, using Holo Bliss KTE as pre with Rockna Wavelight, the difference in character was immediately striking. The reason I’ve loved and continued to appreciate the AHB2 is its incredibly clean and precise sound. It’s been a benchmark of audio clarity for me. However, comparing it with the Chord Ultima felt like listening to an entirely different system, highlighting distinct aspects of sound I hadn’t fully appreciated before.”

Bass

Here, the difference is far from subtle. The Chord Ultima takes each bass note and hammers it home like Mjolnir, leaving me absolutely electrified. The Martin Logan ESL-11A being active up to 300hz, so I didn’t expect much difference, but the Ultima surprised the hell out of me. The impact is like a Thor’s hammer hit, and that’s not all; it brings incredible speed, control, and depth. It felt as if I’d treated my room acoustically. With the AHB2, the bass bloom lingered, decaying into the walls. This was completely absent with the Ultima.

Midrange

The Chord Ultima also excels in the midrange. It has a more pronounced midrange presence than the AHB2. Instruments and vocals feel more vibrant, the textures more alive. It’s like the Ultima adds more ‘meat on the bones’, emphasizing the lower-mid midrange, while AHB2 focuses more on the upper midrange. AHB2 impresses with its clarity and cleanliness, but the Ultima is livelier, with richer textures.

Treble

Both amps offer good treble extension, but the Ultima’s treble is smoother, more natural. It has a slightly snappier attack compared to the AHB2.

Dynamics

These are both forward-sounding amplifiers, but the Ultima clearly takes the lead. It’s bursting with energy. Listening to metal, rock, and even some ABBA and classical tracks on my speakers with the Ultima felt ‘metal’ – a testament to its dynamic prowess. The AHB2 is dynamic and fun, but it just can’t keep up with the Ultima in this department.

Details

In terms of details, the Chord Ultima Integrated again leads. The bass is more nuanced and controlled. The midrange has better presence, and the textures in instruments and vocals are livelier and more detailed.

Tonality

The Chord Ultima’s tonality is more natural compared to the AHB2, which can lean towards clinical precision. The Ultima manages to sound natural yet electrifying.

Summary of Comparison

It’s clear that I prefer the Chord Ultima Integrated over the AHB2. The experience with the Ultima is electrifyingly energetic and fun. When the bass hits, it’s like having your personal Mjolnir – simply exhilarating. The overall dynamics are superb, with an abundance of natural details, free from any brightness or digital harshness.

Interestingly, if you pair two AHB2s in mono bridged mode, you might get close to the Ultima’s experience. I tested this setup more than 1.5 years ago, albeit without a pre-amplifier. Dual AHB2s offer a more natural sound and improved midrange presence, holographic soundstage, and overall dynamics and bass. But remember, a good pre-amplifier is still essential. Price-wise, it reaches close to the Ultima Integrated, yet I’m still not entirely convinced it can match the Ultima’s level of fun, liveliness, and control, though it would certainly give a more formidable fight.

Conclusion

Yes, I’m absolutely thrilled! The Chord Ultima Integrated belongs to a rare and unforgettable category in my audiophile journey. Having tested numerous products, I reserve this special recognition for only a select few, and the Chord Ultima Integrated undoubtedly earns its place there. Its combination of powerful, detailed bass, a vibrant and lively midrange, and a smooth, natural treble, along with its dynamic, energetic presentation and astounding detail retrieval, truly sets it apart. This amplifier isn’t just about technical excellence; it’s about bringing music to life in a way that’s both electrifying and deeply engaging.

A word of caution: if you’re keen on safeguarding your wallet, you might want to steer clear of this one. But if you’re up for an exhilarating, magical auditory journey, then you absolutely must give the Chord Ultima Integrated a listen. It’s not just an amplifier; it’s an invitation to a whole new world of sound that you won’t forget