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Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • The EHT combines tubes and transistors to mate the most desirable characteristics of both
  • Amplifiers provide fullness and density, even at low listening volumes
  • The EHT creates a natural sound with incredible saturation
  • They are fully short-circuit proof at the outputs without any sound-degrading protection
  • A switch-on delay is omitted because switching on/off develops no disturbing noise or dangerous signal in this circuit

Product Considerations

  • Sound is focused on timbre rather than detail
  • Their sound is soft rather than focused, rather warm than open, and rather close to us than presented in a perspective
  • The devices are quite large, as they measure 434 x 184 x 434 mm (W x H x D) and weigh 14 kg each

Takeaway: The Thöress EHT monoblocks offer a holistic view of the musical material and its reinterpretation that can be very enjoyable for long listening sessions. They create events in their own acoustic environment, which is completely transferred to the listening room, creating a beautiful, organic, comprehensive, and internally properly arranged sound for those who value tonality above all else.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

EHT Power

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Output Power: 30W (8 ohm), 40W (6 ohm), 50W (4 ohm)
  • Output Resistance: Very low (high damping factor)
THÖRESS introduces the EHT Mono Amplifier, the most powerful amplifier model of their product line, providing 30, 40 or 50 watts of output power into a 8, 6 or 4 ohm load respectively, combined with very low output resistance (high damping factor).
THÖRESS introduces the EHT Mono Amplifier... The most powerful amplifier model of our product line provides 30, 40 or 50 watts of output power into a 8, 6 or 4 ohm load respectively, combined with very low output resistance (high damping factor). Such providing excellent drive capability for loudspeakers with medium to low efficiency or critical impedance behavior. While offering an ultimate sonic presentation without involving exotic and costly power tubes. The amplifier is based on a unique minimalist single-ended zero-feedback hybrid circuit which we call EHT Topology. Basic analysis easily shows that the EHT topology represents the PUREST form of all possible single-ended triode power amplifier configurations.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • They draw heavily from classic professional audio design, with a clear emphasis on functionality and a vintage aesthetic reminiscent of 1950s and 60s laboratory equipment.
  • Thöress uniquely combines tubes with carefully chosen solid-state components like MOSFETs and Schottky diodes to optimize tube performance and minimize noise, rather than adhering to a strictly tube-only design.
  • Almost all inductive components, including power, output, and MC step-up transformers, are hand-wound in-house, allowing for precise control over their specifications and performance.
  • Rather than using a printed circuit board (PCB), Thöress amplifiers are assembled point-to-point, which Reinhard believes is a superior approach for the large parts, high voltages, and need for ventilation in tube circuits.

F2A11 INTEGRATED

  • Positioning: A compact integrated amplifier suited for small room applications and modest budgets.
  • Description: Uses the vintage F2A11 tube in single-ended triode mode to deliver a simple 2×6 watt output ideal for minimal setups. Compared to the DF and EHT models that offer additional functions and higher power, this unit is best for users focused on basic performance without extra features.

DF AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A versatile dual function amplifier that combines line control with headphone driving.
  • Description: Features a minimalist vacuum tube circuit with a triode gain stage followed by a current buffer that supports low impedance loads, ensuring flexible connectivity. Compared to the entry-level F2A11 with its simple integrated design, the DF amplifier adds tone control and remote volume features for users needing extra functionality.

FULL FUNCTION PREAMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A versatile preamplifier offering both line control and a built-in tube phono equalizer.
  • Description: Integrates a tube phono equalizer with a refined line amplifier circuit to process signals accurately. In contrast to the simpler integrated F2A11 and dual-purpose DF, this model is tailored for buyers who prioritize advanced tonal control for vinyl and line-level signals without a built-in power section.

EHT INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: An integrated amplifier combining tube warmth with solid-state drive for challenging speaker loads.
  • Description: Uses a single-ended hybrid triode topology that combines a vacuum tube section with MOSFET technology to deliver 2×20 watts and low output impedance. Compared to the F2A11 and DF designs, the EHT offers advanced drive and display of modern hybrid technology.

SE845 MONO AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A high-end monoblock amplifier designed for refined, powerful performance.
  • Description: Uses the well-known 845 power tube in a single-ended triode configuration with a custom dual-winding transformer that ensures precise control and low distortion. Compared to the preamplifier and EHT models, the SE845 is aimed at buyers who need robust, high-performance amplification.
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
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Brand Popularity
350
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Products Listed
9
Founding Year
2000

Our take on the brand

Thöress is a hifi brand known for its unique EHT Topology, which combines single-ended triode tubes with MOSFET output stages in Class-A mode, setting it apart from typical tube amplifiers through its transparency rather than warmth. The brand's products feature a distinctive vintage laboratory aesthetic with German labeling, and include the Phono Enhancer, which lets users adjust equalization curves on-the-fly without conventional tone controls.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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What if you spend more?

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CANOR
Canor Virtus M1
16635
16635
/
2
Reviews

harmonic distortion - 0,0028 % at 1 W; 0,011 % at 5 W and 0,13 % at 50 W is achieved by harmonizing all circuits and components. the transformer core is vacuum impregnated, and the entire transformer is encapsulated in a special anti-vibration compound. 

In addition, the massive, welded cover in which the transformer is located, creates effective electromagnetic shielding and contributes significantly to the excellent signal-to-hum distance. The additional capacitor at the input improves the dynamic of the anode voltage filtration. the filtration capacity is 3.900 mF / 550 V. 

A choke, that is placed under welded cover, has been used to eliminate anode voltage ripple, which increases the filtering efficiency of the 100 Hz component of the anode voltage. the output permalloy transformers are specially designed for the power amplifier. 

only high-quality polypropylene capacitors are used in the signal path. the conductors on the signal paths consist of slow drawn oxygen-free copper, which is coated with pure silver. instant switching between feedback and zero feedback.

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exemplary build quality of the enclosures, with solid metal inserts made of aluminum crafted on CNC milling machines
  • Canor uses its own fully automated SMT (Surface Mounted Technology) line to assemble and solder the boards
  • The amplifiers are noted for their noise-free reproduction capability in the musical interstices
  • The sound is presented with great naturalness and spaciousness, with a very clean presentation of individual instruments
  • The labels of the connections are listed twice on the back, overhead as well, a detail praised for practicality

Product Considerations

  • The included system remote control could be a bit bigger
  • The tubes require a lengthy break-in period of several hundred hours
  • Some might prefer tube amplifiers without negative feedback, a switchable option on the power amps
  • Some might prefer triode mode over ultralinear mode, which requires the signal to pass through another circuit

Takeaway: The Canor Hyperion P1 and Virtus M1 amplifiers offer exemplary workmanship and sound quality, delivering a natural and spacious audio experience with impressive clarity. The noise-free performance makes this set a great option for audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Trafomatic
Glenn
25456
25456
/
1
Reviews
Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
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Product Strengths

  • Highly customizable, allowing users to request specific configurations and tube types
  • Offers a wide range of tube rolling options to pinpoint the desired sound signature
  • Price-to-performance ratio is excellent, competing with amps costing around $5,000
  • Can drive high impedance headphones like ZMF, HD 800, and T1, as well as planars and low ohm headphones with specific tube configurations
  • Can sound very good with inexpensive tubes, but can be elevated to a ridiculous performance level with higher end tubes
  • There is a HeadFi thread to help with connectivity options

Product Considerations

  • Ordering process is unconventional, requiring direct communication through a HeadFi thread
  • There is a wait time for builds, potentially around six months
  • Tube rolling can become expensive due to the variety of options and the cost of some tubes

Takeaway: The Glenn is a highly customizable amplifier that provides excellent performance for the price, especially for those who enjoy tube rolling and experimenting with different sound signatures. It is a versatile amp that can drive a wide range of headphones, making it a great choice for many audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Balanced Audio Technology
Rex 500
25000
25000
/
5
Reviews
Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) designs all their components with fully balanced circuits and dual-mono power supplies, which deliver better channel separation and cleaner sound reproduction. BAT's signature approach includes zero global feedback and their Unistage circuit design, which amplifies the signal only once through a short signal path to preserve the original audio characteristics.
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Product Strengths

  • Powerful, able to drive any speaker at any level with ease
  • Delivers a new dimension in realism at any volume level, exposing the timbre of bass instruments unlike ever heard before
  • Reveals harmonic quality of instruments and voices

Product Considerations

  • Heavy, weighing 140lb (63.5kg), requiring assistance for moving and unboxing
  • High running temperature (55-65oC across the chassis) and draws 500W from the wall when idle
  • When speaker cables are terminated with spade lugs, caution is advised as the posts are close together
  • Output is floating—it should not be connected to any loudspeaker with a grounded 'black' terminal
  • BAT components take a long time to "break in" (400-500 hours of use)

Takeaway: The BAT REX 500 is a very powerful amplifier that drives speakers with ease and reveals new levels of realism in familiar recordings. It is a must-audition for those seeking reference-level power amplification.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) designs all their components with fully balanced circuits and dual-mono power supplies, which deliver better channel separation and cleaner sound reproduction. BAT's signature approach includes zero global feedback and their Unistage circuit design, which amplifies the signal only once through a short signal path to preserve the original audio characteristics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
McIntosh
MC3500 Mk II
30000
30000
/
4
Reviews
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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Product Strengths

  • Delivers 350 watts into 2-ohm, 4-ohm, or 8-ohm loads
  • The design has a purity that is quite amazing
  • Effortless power
  • Soundstage is big
  • Transparent

Product Considerations

  • Not necessarily suitable for pairing with extremely cold sounding, sterile or bright speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • MC3500 is more open and airy, with base not as hard fisted, compared to Krell KSA 250
  • It compares with brands like soulution, big Audio Research, and CH Precision, but at a lower cost

Takeaway: The MC3500 is an impressive amplifier that delivers a natural and pure sound, able to drive almost any speaker. If you're in the market for a McIntosh amp, this is the one that makes music sound pure, simple and unadulterated.

Video review

Our take on the brand

McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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What competes at this price?

Thöress
SE-300B
10581
/
Released
2023
The SE300B Mono Amplifier is an all-tube power amplifier employing the famous classic 300B filamentary triode in single-ended operation mode for an output of up to 10 watts into a 4, 8 or 16 ohm loudspeaker load.
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Thöress is a hifi brand known for its unique EHT Topology, which combines single-ended triode tubes with MOSFET output stages in Class-A mode, setting it apart from typical tube amplifiers through its transparency rather than warmth. The brand's products feature a distinctive vintage laboratory aesthetic with German labeling, and include the Phono Enhancer, which lets users adjust equalization curves on-the-fly without conventional tone controls.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Pure sound, free of coloration while retaining musical detail, allows a graceful and effortless listening experience
  • Natural and tangible sound due to accurate reproduction of details, creates a believable presentation
  • Solid and controlled bass performance, unusual for a 300B single-ended triode amplifier
  • Excellent sense of touch and tactile sound, making instruments like plucked strings and bowed violins sound very convincing
  • Wide and deep soundstage with good 'air', providing a transparent and 'hear-through' sound, especially with complex music

Product Considerations

  • Careful matching with partnering equipment is required, especially speakers with high efficiency
  • Relatively low overall gain requires a source with a high output voltage
  • Output transformer links need to be correctly set for speaker impedance, requiring dealer assistance
  • Some reviewers found the top end sounding a bit rolled off before use of appropriate high efficiency speakers and source gain settings
  • Changing the EL803S driver valves requires carefully matched pairs supplied by Thöress

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Shindo Haut-Brion/Corton-Charlemagne, Thöress has more treble extension and transparency, Shindo has better upper-bass/lower-midrange substance and body—and more drive

Takeaway: The Thöress SE-300B offers a supremely musical and detailed listening experience with a focus on accuracy and sonic purity. When paired with the right speakers, this amplifier could be an excellent choice to bring out the best in music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thöress is a hifi brand known for its unique EHT Topology, which combines single-ended triode tubes with MOSFET output stages in Class-A mode, setting it apart from typical tube amplifiers through its transparency rather than warmth. The brand's products feature a distinctive vintage laboratory aesthetic with German labeling, and include the Phono Enhancer, which lets users adjust equalization curves on-the-fly without conventional tone controls.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
ampsandsound
Bryce
16000
/
Released
2021
The story of the Bryce was an extension of our work with the Nautilus integrated amp. The Nautilus integrated how special single ended amps could sound. Where the Zions represent ultra bandwidth push pull mono blocks the Bryce monos our are Ultra wide bandwidth single ended amplifiers with an output that opens them to most speakers with moderate efficiency. The Bryce’s mono layout allowed room for innovative thinking with the inclusion of a fixed bias structure and moderate feedback. The Bryce exacts the maximum output from a single power tube through high bias and gentle feedback. Wired as true Tetrodes feedback was used to extend the frequency response and maintain operation closely mimic triode curves.



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ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive bass response, dynamics, and power for a 12-Watt single-ended tube amplifier
  • Dense, tactile, and sweet harmonic color with a clean and clear sound
  • Robust build quality with point-to-point hand wiring and exceptional parts
  • Easy biasing with a switch for KT88 to KT120/150 mode
  • Proprietary transformers that contribute to a flatter response and deeper low bass

Product Considerations

  • Careful speaker matching is required, ideally with speakers that have at least 94dB/W efficiency and a stable speaker load
  • Must be turned off for at least 10 minutes, preferably 30, before turning it back on, or the rectifier tube could blow
  • The correct tube type must be selected on the back of the amp, otherwise performance could be lackluster or tubes could be damaged
  • The XLR input involves a slight reduction in detail due to using an input transformer to convert the incoming balanced signal to single-ended

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Bryce eliminates the shortcomings of ampsandsound Nautilus when used as a speaker amplifier, adding dynamics, bass, and an extended top end
  • The Bryce monoblocks are more romantic in execution, with single-ended construction—compared to the push-pull output of ampsandsound Zion

Takeaway: The Bryce Monos are high-quality amplifiers with a surprisingly powerful and detailed sound, providing an engaging listening experience. They are great for audiophiles looking for a tube amp that delivers both emotional connection and technical performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Fezz
Audio Lybra 300B
10306
/
Released
2023
One of the finest parallel single ended 300B tube amplifier made by Fezz Audio. It provides openness and spatial sound. Powerful, sublime, very involving and uniqe to itself.
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Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers an incredibly rich, flavorful midrange and a sweet, relaxed treble
  • Has a more sophisticated presentation than the utilitarian bent-metal chassis sported by most integrated tube amps on the market, and the smooth lines of the chassis help the amp stand out from the crowd
  • Has a clever tube cage design with a clear Plexiglass front panel that delivers an unobstructed view of the tubes and is easy to install and remove
  • Is seriously quiet, and there was effectively zero noise through any of the speakers

Product Considerations

  • Can sound wildly different, depending on the impedance of the speakers
  • The four slightly squishy feet underneath the amp may cause stains
  • The power switch is on the rear of the chassis, which may be problematic if installing the amp in a cabinet with limited access
  • Needs a good 20 minutes to warm up, and on initial startup, the amp sounded a bit thin, bright, and constipated, but after one album, it opened right up
  • Limited power output (15Wpc) may not be sufficient for all speakers or listening preferences, especially when wanting to play music very loud

Takeaway: The Fezz Audio Lybra 300B is a well-designed tube amplifier that delivers a rich and flavorful sound. It can bring out the best in your speakers, offering clarity and great sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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ampsandsound
Black Pearl
14000
/
Released
2023
Much like its namesake, the Black Pearl is made of the stuff of legends: the Western Electric 300B. The most famous audio tube ever made, and for good reason - it’s low distortion, clarity and purity of tone set it apart from even other triodes. In the right amplifier the 300B is fast, dynamic and tight, qualities we often associate with larger, more complex pentode topologies. Like the Calypsos, the Black Pearl started as a personal project with the goal of maximizing the potential of the Western Electric 300b reissue. This is among the very best 300B replicas one can buy, and to many ears, the closest one can get to originals.



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ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Simplicity mixed with extreme refinement delivers something special that is unforgettable
  • Amazing bass control, even over speakers with notoriously floppy bass
  • Solid-state quiet, with no noise or hum present even with ears pressed up to the speakers
  • Calmly pulls one into the presentation, taking one further into the music
  • Excels with music featuring a lot of inner detail or acoustic instruments, resolving textures and attacks with precision
  • Sheer physical quality, both inside and out, is the best of the best

Product Considerations

  • If new to the 300B tube, note these tubes have no central locator pins like other power tubes, one can put these tubes in their sockets wrong and blow the amplifier up
  • Requires no setup other than installing the tubes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Attention to detail is not seen on a McIntosh
  • Only the BAT REX Power Amplifier delivers bass grip and resolution at the same level

Takeaway: The ampsandsound Black Pearl amplifier offers a unique and immersive listening experience with exceptional detail and bass control. It is a destination product worth the investment for those who truly appreciate high-quality audio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Chord Electronics
Ultima
15375
/
Released
2023
The ULTIMA mono power amplifiers have been conceived for the very finest high-end audio systems, those which by their very nature, tend to have the most demanding and most difficult-to-drive large loudspeakers. They deliver unsurpassed power and are capable of effortlessly driving any speaker.
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Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a remarkably smooth, unforced, and natural presentation with a touch of warmth
  • Excels in detail retrieval and textured presentation of instruments and vocals, making the music feel alive
  • Presents a wide and holographic soundstage, especially when paired with speakers that are already strong in this area
  • Demonstrates agility, precision, and clarity, combined with a naturalness that eluded earlier generations of Chord amplifiers
  • Scales dynamically and has the ability to punch hard when required

Product Considerations

  • Has a minimalist design with just four line-level inputs, lacking features like phono stages, tone controls, headphone outputs, or DAC modules
  • Some may find its sonic signature prioritizes articulation over qualities such as richness and authority, potentially sounding thin if partnered poorly
  • Balance control has no center indent or marked position
  • The polychromatic lighting may be an issue for the color-blind
  • Remote operation can be affected by direct sunlight

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivers undeniably elevated sound in all respects, with greater dimensionality and smoother vocals
  • Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, the Chord Ultima Integrated offers a weightier and more thunderous delivery, especially in the midrange and vocals, with more inner warmth in tone
  • Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Chord Ultima Integrated provides a more energetic and fun listening experience, with Thor-like bass impact and overall superior dynamics
  • Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord Ultima Integrated is warmer, rounder, more powerful, and refined, with a more fluid and emotionally engaging performance

Takeaway: The Chord Ultima Integrated is a unique and well-built amplifier that combines a visually pleasing design with a captivating sound, full of detail and dynamic precision. It brings music to life with an engaging and immersive experience, making it a worthy addition to any audiophile's setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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