Chord Electronics ULTIMA PRE 3 Preamplifier

The Chord Electronics ULTIMA PRE 3 is a high-performance analog preamplifier designed to serve as the control center of a reference two-channel audio system. Developed from the ground up as part of Chord's ULTIMA range, PRE 3 combines fully balanced circuitry, a pure analog signal path, advanced low-noise power-supply technology, and flexible balanced and unbalanced connectivity. With five analog inputs, dedicated AV bypass, balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, and precise analog volume control, ULTIMA PRE 3 is designed to partner with high-performance power amplifiers, including Chord's ULTIMA power amplifier range. Fully Balanced Analog Architecture ULTIMA PRE 3 uses a fully balanced circuit design and an entirely analog signal path, keeping the focus on high-quality analog preamplification without adding unnecessary digital processing. Each of its five main analog inputs—two balanced XLR and three unbalanced RCA—is individually buffered and selectively filtered to help protect the signal path against potential radio-frequency interference. Chord's advanced shielding technology and solid aluminum chassis further support the low-noise design. Advanced Low-Noise Power Supply At the heart of ULTIMA PRE 3 is Chord's latest high-frequency switch-mode power-supply technology, developed to provide exceptionally low noise and stable operation for the preamplifier circuitry. Combined with the PRE 3's latest-generation circuit design, the power supply provides a carefully controlled foundation for high-performance analog signal handling. Precise Analog Volume Control Volume adjustment is handled by an ALPS Blue Velvet potentiometer, providing tactile analog level control while maintaining the PRE 3's all-analog signal path. The redesigned front panel features Chord's distinctive central illuminated power sphere, flanked by dedicated controls for volume and balance/AV bypass operation. An included IR system remote provides convenient control from the listening position. Balanced & Unbalanced System Connectivity ULTIMA PRE 3 provides two stereo balanced XLR inputs and three stereo unbalanced RCA inputs, allowing multiple analog sources to be connected simultaneously. For power-amplifier connection, both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs are provided. A dedicated stereo balanced XLR AV bypass input allows the PRE 3 to be incorporated into a combined two-channel and home-theater system, while a 12 V trigger input/output simplifies power control when used with compatible components. The rear panel also includes a 5 V USB Type-A charging port for powering or charging compatible devices. This USB connection is for power only and is not a digital audio input. Key Features High-end five-input analog preamplifier Fully balanced analog circuitry 2 × balanced XLR and 3 × unbalanced RCA inputs Dedicated balanced XLR AV-bypass input Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs ALPS Blue Velvet precision volume control High-frequency switch-mode power supply Advanced internal shielding