Stereo Power AmplifiersTechnologyChord Electronics has successfully implemented high frequency power supplies which operate at a much higher frequency than conventional power supplies and are therefore much better suited to high power applications. As a result Chord amplifiers are smaller and lighter, they run cooler, deliver more power and respond faster. Chord amplifiers feature lower distortion and an absolutely dead-quiet background.Specifically, dynamic coupling of the power supply rails means power delivery is always balanced and free from ground loop modulation distortion. The power supply rails operate at frequencies well above that which most amplifiers can accommodate. This, and other advanced techniques, enables the ultra high frequency low ESR power supply to store a great deal more energy far more efficiently. Clipping is virtually impossible. Finally, the output signal path is totally free of any fuses or sound-degrading resistive components often employed for overload sensing. Chord Electronics amplifiers are designed to surpass the highest safety and electromagnetic interference standards.The amplifier sections are also highly sophisticated designs that make the most of the best high voltage, lateral structure MOSFETs available. The result is a sliding bias class A/B design with all drive circuitry operating in class A. At usual listening levels most of the music will be reproduced in class A thus Chord amplifiers combine the subtlety and musicality of a good valve design with the punch and accuracy of 'state of the art' solid state products.A high current filter ensures that the amplifier is shielded from disturbed mains as well as ensuring that the mains is untouched by emissions from the amplifier. The output from the power supply uses a truly innovative “Dynamic Coupling” technique whereby the positive and negative rails are mutually coupled by a strong magnetic flux. The result being that if a high demand is put on one rail, the energy required is actually drawn equally from both rails. This keeps the amplifier balanced dynamically and the reference point perfectly clean. Magnetic current sensors provide electronic shutdown.SPM 650The new Chord SPM 650 entry level power amplifier utilizes Chord’s renowned high frequency power supply techniques and proprietary lateral structure dual-die MOSFETs. The SPM 650 retains the clarity, style and outstanding dynamics of Chord’s larger amplifiers and will easily drive low impedance loudspeakers. The SPM 650 delivers 130 watts per channel into 8 ohms or 170 watts into 4."Entry level? Hardly... they might be our introduction to the Chord family, but they are hardly what others would call 'entry level'. Packed full of the audio superiority you expect from Chord, these elegant new units ensure that entry level has never looked or sounded so good." - John Franks, Founder Chord Electronics. |
