Quad's reintroduction of the 33 and 303 amplifiers offers a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance.

In a harmonious blend of classic design and modern engineering, British hi-fi pioneer Quad has reintroduced its iconic 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier, originally launched in 1967, to meet the demands of today's discerning audiophiles.

Timeless Design with Contemporary Enhancements

The 2024 editions of the 33 and 303 amplifiers retain the distinctive aesthetic that made them legendary. The 33 preamplifier showcases a compact form factor with a matte silver finish, updated from the original taupe, and features modern orange LED-illuminated controls. An orange-backlit LCD display adds a retro-futuristic touch, offering functionalities such as dimming or complete deactivation of the backlight.

The 303 power amplifier preserves its vertical orientation, with the signature heatsink fins at the front now updated to ten squared-off fins from the original eight, maintaining its understated elegance. A new orange standby button visually ties the amplifier to its preamplifier counterpart.

Advanced Internal Components for Superior Performance

Internally, both units have undergone significant upgrades. The 303 amplifier utilizes a low-noise, custom toroidal transformer, enhancing thermal stability and reducing distortion. It delivers 50W per channel into 8Ω (up from the original 45W) and can handle more demanding speaker loads with a maximum current delivery of 10A.

The 33 preamplifier features a completely new circuit design with higher-quality components, resulting in superior sonic performance. It includes a low-noise phono stage with adjustable gain for both MM and MC cartridges, precision RIAA equalization, and an upgraded power supply, ensuring crisp and detailed vinyl playback. Additionally, a dedicated headphone amplifier with a current-feedback design caters to a wide range of headphones.

Enhanced Connectivity and Flexibility

Addressing the needs of modern audio setups, the new 33 preamplifier replaces the original DIN sockets with RCA and balanced XLR inputs and outputs, providing versatile connection options. It offers four line-level inputs (three RCA and one XLR) and a phono input. A USB port facilitates firmware updates, reflecting the integration of digital control in the user interface while maintaining a purely analog signal path. Both units feature 12V trigger inputs and outputs, allowing synchronized power on/off with other system components.

The 303 amplifier offers an upgrade path through bridged mode, combining its two stereo channels into a single mono channel to drive one speaker. This configuration increases power output to 140W per channel into an 8Ω load, enhancing sonic muscle and control without compromising the amplifier's finesse. The rear panel is equipped with high-quality gold-plated binding posts for speaker connections, a choice of RCA and balanced XLR inputs, and a 12V trigger input for automatic power synchronization with the 33 preamplifier.

Preserving Signature Sound Quality

The original 33/303 combination was celebrated for its warm, detailed sound—a hallmark of Quad’s approach to transistor amplification. The 2024 editions retain this characteristic, with improved clarity and dynamic range thanks to modern components. The 33 preamplifier introduces a tilt control, a feature developed by Quad’s founder, Peter Walker, in the 1980s, allowing users to fine-tune the tonal balance without coloring the sound. Independent bass and balance controls provide more precise adjustments to match the listening environment.

Availability and Pricing

The 2024 editions of the Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 stereo power amplifier will be available from authorized Quad retailers starting in mid-November, each priced at £1,199 in the UK, €1,499 in Europe, and $1,599 in the United States.

Quad's reintroduction of the 33 and 303 amplifiers offers a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance. These updates honor the legacy of the originals while incorporating advancements that meet contemporary audio standards.