Chord Electronics Alto Headphone Amplifier
Category: DAC Amps
Chord Electronics Alto Desktop Headphone Amplifier is precision-crafted for audio professionals who demand exceptional sound clarity and performance. Designed specifically for recording, mixing, and mastering environments, Alto delivers transparent audio amplification, allowing engineers and audiophiles to make precise audio adjustments confidently. Drive your favorite professional studio headphones and nearfield monitors with unmatched clarity and minimal distortion.
Advanced ULTIMA Amplification Technology
Chord’s groundbreaking ULTIMA amplifier technology empowers the Alto to deliver unparalleled dynamic range and exceptional transient response. Experience a highly detailed audio representation, where every subtle musical nuance is clearly articulated, offering a transparent, precise, and authentic listening experience. Alto effortlessly manages complex audio signals, providing an accurate representation of your recordings, essential for critical listening sessions.
Comprehensive Connectivity for Professional Setups
The Chord Alto Desktop Amplifier offers extensive connectivity, perfect for integration into any professional audio environment. Equipped with balanced and unbalanced inputs, as well as balanced XLR outputs, Alto ensures compatibility with studio monitors and external controllers. The front panel includes versatile headphone outputs, such as a 1/4" unbalanced output, 4.4mm balanced, and a balanced 4-pin XLR output, accommodating virtually any audiophile-grade headphone on the market.
Compact and Robust Rack-Mountable Design
Designed specifically for professional use, Alto’s compact, rugged chassis is built from premium-grade materials to withstand daily studio operations. Its compact, 1U tall, rack-mountable form factor ensures seamless integration into standard 19-inch racks or neatly on desktops. Built with aluminum alloy construction, the Chord Alto combines portability, durability, and sleek aesthetics to complement modern studio spaces.
Precise Sound, Superior Control
Alto incorporates advanced circuitry with a carefully partitioned layout that isolates power and audio paths, significantly reducing signal interference. The high-performance internal components, along with dedicated signal routing, provide ultra-low distortion and a pristine audio experience. With selectable gain controls (low, medium, and high), Alto comfortably drives headphones of various impedances, delivering optimal performance at all listening levels.
Intuitive Operation with Enhanced Features
Operating the Alto is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive front panel controls and clear indicators. The unit includes precision analog volume control, providing accurate and smooth volume adjustments without channel imbalance. Additionally, its robust power management circuitry automatically adjusts voltage from 80-250 VAC, ensuring safe operation in various global regions. Alto also supports simultaneous output to up to four headphones, perfect for collaborative listening sessions.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Amplification Technology | Chord ULTIMA Amplification |
| Headphone Output Power | ≥ 2.1 W into 32Ω (1% THD), ≥ 1.1 W into 16Ω, ≥ 281 mW into 300Ω |
| Speaker Output Power | 50W per Channel into 4Ω |
| Headphone Outputs | 1/4" Single-ended, 4.4mm Balanced, 4-pin XLR Balanced |
| Line Inputs | Stereo RCA, Balanced XLR, 4.4mm Balanced Input |
| Line Outputs | Stereo RCA, Balanced XLR |
| Frequency Response | 6 Hz - 60 kHz (-3 dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.003% into 4Ω (Speakers), < 0.001% into 100Ω (Headphones) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) | >123 dBA |
| Crosstalk | -95 dB |
| Input Max Voltage | 6 V RMS |
| Output Max Voltage | 15 V RMS |
| Power Requirements | Universal Voltage (80-250 V AC, Auto-Switching) |
| Dimensions | 7.87" x 1.75" x 8.46" (200 x 44.5 x 215 mm) |
| Weight | 4.85 lbs (2.2 kg) |
| Construction | Aluminum Alloy Chassis, Rack-Mountable (1U height) |
| Operation Voltage | 80-250 VAC Auto-Switching, 50/60 Hz |
What's In the Box
- Chord Alto Desktop Headphone Amplifier
- Power Cord
- USB Data Cable
- 1/4" Headphone Adapter
- Vertical Mounting Stand
- 6x Foot Pads
- Fuse
- User Manual
- Chord Electronics 3-Year Warranty Documentation
Unlock the full potential of your audio gear with the Chord Alto Desktop Headphone Amplifier—engineered for audio perfection and professional versatility.
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