The new Quad 33 and 303 Pre and Power

The new Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier, reimagined for 2024, are designed to honor the classic audio character of the originals while adding updates to meet modern audiophile standards. This pair pays homage to the classic British hi-fi legacy established by Quad in the 1960s, yet with thoughtful enhancements that cater to today’s listeners.

Design and Build Quality

The 33 and 303 showcase vintage-inspired aesthetics, with the minimalist, industrial design echoing the original’s clean lines and compact profile. Both units are constructed with a durable finish and incorporate elements like illuminated controls and modernized connectors that maintain the Quad heritage with a modern touch. Quad has updated the preamp and amplifier casings to integrate today’s technological expectations without compromising the distinct aesthetic that made the originals stand out​

Features and Connectivity

33 Preamplifier
Quad’s 2024 edition of the 33 preamplifier maintains an analog focus, with controls that include the classic "Tilt" function, which adjusts the tonal balance by boosting or reducing high and low frequencies around a 700Hz pivot point. This feature, originally developed by Quad’s founder Peter Walker, allows for fine adjustments to suit different listening environments or sound profiles, letting users add warmth or brightness with subtle precision. The 33 now also includes separate bass and balance controls for additional sound customization.

Connectivity has been modernized from the original’s DIN sockets to a selection of RCA and XLR inputs, supporting up to four line-level sources. There is also a dedicated phono stage compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, allowing vinyl listeners a higher degree of sound fidelity and clarity. Outputs include both RCA and balanced XLR connections, expanding compatibility with contemporary equipment and giving listeners flexibility in building their audio setup. For ease of integration with other components, the preamp also includes 12V trigger outputs​

303 Power Amplifier

The new 303 power amplifier retains Quad’s original circuit topology while adding significant internal improvements. This 2024 version boasts 50W per channel into 8-ohm loads, which can increase to 70W into 4-ohm speakers, giving it enough power to drive a range of speaker types, including those with higher power demands. A notable new feature is the amplifier’s ability to operate in bridged mode, where two 303 units can be combined into a monoblock configuration, increasing the output to 140W per channel for those who need more dynamic range and headroom​

The amplifier uses Quad’s classic "triples" circuit, a design approach pioneered by the original 303 that stabilizes performance by reducing the need for high levels of negative feedback. This unique feature minimizes distortion while preserving the rich, warm sound signature Quad enthusiasts expect. The new 303 also includes a ten-amp maximum current delivery capacity, which allows it to handle more complex audio passages and bass-heavy tracks with ease

Sound Performance

The sound signature of the new 33 and 303 maintains the warm, detailed, and slightly laid-back tonal profile that Quad is known for. The Tilt control in the 33 preamp allows for tonal tweaks without over-coloring the sound, preserving clarity while adding depth and nuance to the audio. The phono stage on the 33 preamp offers precise RIAA equalization and low-noise circuitry, delivering an improved listening experience for vinyl records, capturing fine details and subtleties in analog sources

The 303 amplifier, with its updated internal components and revised circuitry, produces smooth, detailed, and rich sound that honors the original’s capabilities while adding power and precision to cater to modern speakers. Even at high volumes, the 303’s performance remains stable, providing ample control over low frequencies while maintaining clarity in the mids and highs. This makes it ideal for audiophiles who prioritize a refined, natural sound without excessive coloration.

Price and Value

Both units are priced at approximately $1,599 each, a premium investment that reflects the build quality, sound fidelity, and heritage appeal of the Quad brand. For audiophiles and collectors who appreciate a blend of classic aesthetics and high-end analog sound, the 33 and 303 offer a compelling combination of nostalgia and performance enhancements. This price point positions them competitively within the high-fidelity audio market, appealing particularly to those who value Quad's legacy and audio philosophy.

Conclusion

The updated Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier successfully marry classic design with modern functionality, offering a refined sound profile that caters to both legacy Quad fans and contemporary audiophiles. With flexible connectivity, a robust build, and a characteristically warm, smooth sound, the new 33 and 303 preserve the iconic Quad sound while adapting to today’s listening standards. The 2024 editions stand as a testament to Quad’s enduring commitment to "the closest approach to the original sound," reaffirming their place in high-end audio with renewed sophistication​