Built from the ground up, the Chord Electronics Ultima Pre 3 pre amplifier embraces the very latest in advanced low‑distortion power‑supply technology, delivering exceptionally low noise and superb amplifier stability. When combined with Chord Electronics’ newest circuit innovations, the PRE 3 reaches an entirely new tier of preamplifier performance—cleaner, quieter, and more effortlessly musical than ever.

To ensure seamless system integration, the ULTIMA PRE 3 offers five analogue inputs—two balanced and three unbalanced—each individually buffered and selectively filtered to guard against unwanted radio‑frequency interference. Every source benefits from the same meticulous attention to detail, preserving signal integrity from the moment it enters your system.

Externally, the Chord Electronics Ultima Pre 3 pre amplifier showcases a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. At its centre sits Chord’s iconic illuminated power sphere, now flanked by a newly designed volume control and balance/AV‑bypass selector. Both feature an improved ergonomic knob design that feels as premium as the performance it controls—an elegant touch that Home Media Limited customers always appreciate.

Practicality hasn’t been overlooked either. The PRE 3 includes a dedicated AV bypass for seamless integration into mixed hi‑fi/home‑cinema setups, along with a convenient 5 V USB Type‑A charging port for powering accessories or keeping your mobile device topped up during listening sessions.

The Chord Electronics Ultima Pre 3 pre amplifier is a beautifully engineered control hub designed for music lovers who expect refinement, reliability, and a level of craftsmanship that stands proudly alongside the finest systems showcased at Home Media.

Features

XLR Inputs: 2x stereo balanced XLR inputs
RCA Inputs: 3x stereo unbalanced RCA
XLR Outputs: 1x stereo XLR
RCA Outputs: 1x stereo RCA
USB Output: 1x 5 V charging USB Type-A port
AV Bypass: 1x stereo balanced XLR AV bypass input
12V Trigger: 1 x 12 V trigger output/input

Technical Specifcations 

Frequency response: 10 Hz-200 kHz +/- 3 dB
THD: 0.002 % 20Hz-20 kHz
Signal to noise ratio: -105 dB on all inputs
Input impedance: 100 kΩ
Output impedance: 560 Ω
Input maximum voltage: 10 V RMS
Output maximum voltage: 17 V RMS
Gain: x1
Channel separation: 100 dB
Operation voltage: 80-250 V AC auto-switching
Power consumption: 40 W
Dimensions with legs: 485 mm (w) x 355 mm (d) x 130 mm (h)
Dimensions with optional side blocks (can not be stacked): 10 cm(H) x 42 cm(W) x 34 cm (D)
Weight: 12.7 kg