Introducing the Alto: The Ultimate Integrated Analogue Headphone and Speaker Amplifier - From the Studio to Your Home

Introducing the Chord Electronics Alto: The Ultimate Integrated Analogue Headphone and Speaker AmplifierFrom the Studio to Your Home

Chord Electronics are thrilled to unveil the Alto, priced at £2999, the Alto is a cutting-edge addition to the world of professional and high-end audio amplification. Designed to excel in both professional studios and home setups, the Alto is an integrated analogue headphone amplifier with incredible versatility. It serves as an integrated amplifier, a headphone amplifier, or both, offering outputs for active speakers while delivering an unmatched listening experience.

A Compact Powerhouse

Sleek and compact, the Alto fits neatly into any setup. Its size, slightly larger than an A5 sheet, positions it between the Chord TT2 and Hugo2 models, making it an excellent addition to desktop setups, living spaces, or dedicated hi-fi systems. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with its ability to drive up to four pairs of headphones and smaller loudspeakers, making it a true standout in the pro-audio market.

Innovative Design with Flexible Connectivity

The Alto introduces several firsts, including a 4.4 mm Pentaconn TRRRS output (pseudo balanced), alongside its 3.5 mm and dual 6.35 mm sockets, catering to the increasing demand for balanced headphone connections. The rear panel is equally impressive, with two analogue inputs for seamless integration with DACs, turntables, or other devices. It also features balanced and unbalanced inputs, stereo banana plug outputs, and a pair of balanced XLR outputs for bypass/external monitor control.

Whether you're an audiophile, a professional, or both, the Alto simplifies connectivity without compromising on quality.

ULTIMA Technology: Precision Audio Amplification

At the heart of the Alto is Chord Electronics’ ULTIMA amplifier topology, a state-of-the-art technology featuring dual-feed-forward error-correction. This innovation ensures precise signal monitoring and correction before the output stage, delivering pristine audio clarity, low distortion, and unmatched transparency.

For nearfield monitors, the Alto delivers 25 watts per channel into 8 ohms (or 50 watts into 4 ohms), ensuring the speed and accuracy necessary for modern high-resolution audio. Its stereo banana plug outputs are compatible with a wide range of loudspeakers, adding versatility to its already impressive design.

A Professional Audio Tool, Now for Everyone

Initially crafted for professional use, the Alto’s four front-mounted headphone outputs make it ideal for A/B comparisons or multi-user setups. With one 3.5 mm, two 6.35 mm, and one 4.4 mm Pentaconn output, the Alto allows multiple listeners to experience its crystal-clear performance simultaneously.

Thanks to overwhelming demand from customers, the Alto is now publicly available at Fanthorpes HiFi.

A Legacy of Excellence in Audio Engineering

With over 35 years of amplifier manufacturing experience, Chord Electronics has distilled its expertise into the Alto, creating an amplifier that meets the needs of professionals and enthusiasts alike. The result is a device that offers exceptional performance, high versatility, and a compact design, making it a must-have for any audio setup.

Why Choose Alto?

1. Multiple Outputs: Drive up to four headphones simultaneously with a variety of connections, including the innovative 4.4 mm Pentaconn TRRRS output.
2. High Power, Small Footprint: Delivers 25W into 8 ohms or 50W into 4 ohms, ideal for nearfield monitors and smaller loudspeakers.
3. Exceptional Transparency: ULTIMA technology ensures speed, clarity, and low distortion.
4. Professional Build: Designed for 19-inch racking with robust construction.
5. Universal Appeal: Perfect for studios, audiophiles, and home audio enthusiasts alike.

Discover the Alto Today!

The Alto is more than just an amplifier; it’s a testament to the art of sound engineering. Whether you’re creating in the studio or enjoying music at home, the Alto elevates your audio experience to a whole new level.