Chord Electronics ALTO
Headphone amplifierChord Electronics has recently launched the Alto, a versatile and high-performance headphone amplifier and nearfield monitor amplifier.
Design and Functionality
The Alto is designed to be a professional-grade amplifier capable of driving up to four pairs of headphones simultaneously. It also functions as a nearfield monitor amplifier, delivering 50 watts per channel for speaker output.
Key Features
Multiple Outputs: The Alto features four headphone outputs on the front panel - one 3.5mm jack, two 6.35mm jacks and one 4.4mm balanced Pentaconn output.
Powerful Output: It provides 2250 mW into 100Ω for headphones and 50W into 4Ω for speakers.
Connectivity: The device includes both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, as well as balanced XLR outputs for bypass/external monitor control.
Compact Design: With dimensions of 200mm (W) x 44.45mm (H) x 215mm (D), it's designed to fit into 19-inch racks and is suitable for various setups, including desktop and living spaces.
Technology
The Alto utilizes Chord Electronics' proprietary ULTIMA amplifier topology, which features advanced dual-feed-forward error-correction technology. This technology monitors and immediately corrects signals before the output stage, aiming to deliver high-energy power levels and fast transient response.
Performance
Frequency Response: 6 Hz - 60 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 119.6 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.003% into 4Ω (speakers), 0.001% into 100Ω (headphones)
Target Market and Applications
Originally designed for recording and mastering studio engineers, the Alto is now available to the general public. It's suitable for professional audio environments, home listening setups and anywhere high-quality headphone or nearfield monitor amplification is required.
Pricing and Availability
The Chord Electronics Alto is priced at £3,000 in the UK and is now available for purchase. Pricing may vary in other regions.The Alto represents Chord Electronics' effort to bring studio-grade amplification technology to a wider audience, offering a combination of versatility, power and high-fidelity performance in a compact package.