When building a great hi-fi system, a good-quality stereo amplifier with the right features, power and performance is critical. This guide will introduce the things to consider and introduce some of the proprietary-technology options available from Chord Electronics.
Things to consider
Power output
Wattage
Think about the size of the room, how you will use the amplifier and the listening levels you like to play at. Look for an amplifier that best matches these variables and also make sure smaller speakers’ power requirements are compatible.
Volume and watts
Remember, the relationship between amplifier wattage and perceived volume isn’t linear, so doubling the wattage doesn’t double the volume, in fact. Moving from 50 to 100 watts, for example, adds about 3 decibels (dB) of volume, which although noticeable is not dramatic. It’s easy to overlook the amount, and quality, of watts. For example, the 10-watt Chord Electronics Anni is remarkably powerful and for desktops and most small rooms, is perfectly suitable.
Speaker efficiency
When thinking about power output (wattage) speaker sensitivity/efficiency plays a crucial role. Higher sensitivity speakers (look for dB ratings) can produce more volume from less power. For instance, a speaker with 90 dB sensitivity will require less power to produce the same volume as one with 85 dB sensitivity. Knowing your loudspeakers’ efficiency is critical when choosing an amplifier, especially if you have older, less efficient models or indeed, high efficiency loudspeakers which don’t require a lot of power.
Types of amplifiers
Integrated amplifiers
Integrated amplifiers combine a preamp and power amp in one ‘integrated’ unit. They save space and are simpler for novices and some people prefer the perceived convenience. The tend to have less power than two-box pre/power amps and are less flexible in terms of future upgrades. They also tend to a little cheaper, the Anni amplifier, for example, is the most affordable way to Chord Electronics amplifier ownership. A powerful device for speakers and headphones, the Anni’s output belies its modest specifications.
The flagship integrated amplifier, the ULTIMA INTEGRATED, is a 125-watt powerhouse which showcases several proprietary amplifier technologies including advanced dual-feed-forward error-correction topology for unrivalled resolution and transparency.
Pre/power amplifiers
This ‘two-box’ combination of a preamplifier and a power amplifier offers several advantages, from increased flexibility when it comes to component choice, great upgrade paths and most importantly, enhanced sound quality thanks to separating the delicate amplification circuits from large power supplies. This approach can also include three boxes, a preamp and two monoblock amplifiers, which offer further advantages from minimising interference between channels, to offering more power and enhanced signal-to-noise for clearer sound.
Chord Electronics preamps include the new Suzi Pre, the Prima from the Choral range, plus the ULTIMA PRE 2, ULTIMA PRE 3 and the flagship ULTIMA PRE. Each has its own application and use case: the Suzi Pre is aimed at desktop and smaller systems, the Prima is a stylish option in the same form factor as the legendary DAVE DAC and the ULTIMA models offer full-width sophistication and functionality.
Chord Electronics’ power amp options are broadly split between five stereo models and for additional performance and power, three monoblock offerings which take power to a incredible 780 watts in the flagship ULTIMA.
Stereo options include the new 30 W Suzi, the 75 W BerTTi from the TT (Table Top) range, the 150 W Etude from the Choral range, plus the full-width ULTIMA 5 and ULTIMA 6 which offer 180 W and 300 W respectively.
Additional power and performance can be achieved with the monoblock ULTIMA 3 (480 W), ULTIMA 2 (750 W) and flagship ULTIMA 780 watts!
Connectivity options
Inputs and outputs
When looking for an amplifier, check for sufficient inputs to cover your source components and any headphones, along with anything you may wish to add in the future.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
Some amplifiers offer wireless connectivity options for streaming music from various devices, however, separating wireless connectivity from the amplifier will yield better results. Bluetooth should be considered a convenience feature, wired Ethernet or wi-fi streaming via a separate device such as a Mojo 2/Poly, 2yu/2go or Hugo 2/2go, is a preferred option.
Sound quality
There are many factors to consider when thinking about sound quality. From design to key technologies to measured data, such as THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) – lower THD means cleaner sound or Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) – higher SNR indicates less background noise and clearer audio. Aim for an SNR above 90 dB.
Going further technically, damping factor is also an important consideration as this figure governs an amplifier’s ability to control the motion of a speaker’s cone after the input signal stops. A higher damping factor means the amplifier can more effectively control the speaker’s motion, leading to tighter and more accurate bass response. Better control over the speaker reduces unwanted distortions, especially at low frequencies and general, a higher damping factor means more precision. Chord Electronics offer class-leading damping factor when it comes to amplification.
Country of manufacture, build quality and brand reputation
Consider where the amplifier is made, is it mass-produced overseas or is it hand-crafted by expert technicians using locally sourced components, metalwork and paint shops?
Is the amplifier built to last and can it be serviced and repaired long into the future? How long is the warranty and what is the returns procedure should the worst happen?
Does the brand have a good reputation? How long has it been a business and is it British or purport to be British, but actually made in China or Europe. Does it have a dealer network of physical shops?
Higher-quality amps such as Chord Electronics’ UK-made devices are crafted with superior technologies and materials, and contain advanced engineering for superior sound. When summed, this translates to greater durability, better performance, and an enhanced user experience.
Better quality and reliability can save money in the long run. Quality products with strong customer support provide peace of mind, ensuring the best return on any audio investment.
Demonstration facilities
Ideally, it should be possible to listen to an amplifier before buying from a local dealership. Not only is amplifier choice critical, and inherently tied to the loudspeaker, it is generally a considerable investment and should be auditioned at leisure from a reputable dealer with the skills, knowledge and experience to support any investment.
A good dealer can also advise on ancillaries, partnering equipment and may be able to install it, too. They are invaluable for after-sales and support post purchase.
Range
Look for a wide range of models with the right feature set, power and connectivity. Discover the full range of Chord Electronics amplifiers here.
