Quad 33 Pre Amplifier

A remarkable collaboration featuring Rob Flain and Paul McConville, the foremost QUAD service engineers, alongside Jan Ertner (who brings three decades of QUAD design expertise), Peter Comeau (the acoustic mastermind behind many successful QUAD loudspeakers), and David McNeill (the industrial designer responsible for two decades of QUAD innovations) has brought forth this exceptional project. Their dedication ensured that the new products would truly honour the legacy of the 33 and 303.

The external design of the new models reflects QUAD’s commitment to practical simplicity while integrating modern features. The backlit display, subtle LED lighting, and remote control functionality enhance usability without detracting from the brand's distinctive look. The classic QUAD appearance is preserved, now further elevated by a premium machined, anodised front panel and an all-metal chassis.

Functionality 

The QUAD 33 leverages digital microprocessor control while remaining true to its classic analog roots. It connects to loudspeakers through dedicated stereo pre-outputs, offering RCA line-level and balanced XLR pre-out options. An AUX output is also available for added versatility.

Equipped with fully balanced XLR inputs and outputs, the 33 distinguishes itself from other preamplifiers, including its predecessor. The new phono stage supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil systems, allowing for straightforward toggling between the two without any modifications. With gains of 46dB for MM and 63.5dB for MC, the design utilises ultra-low noise audio op-amps, ensuring exceptional audio clarity with minimal distortion.

Controls  

The controls are designed to be both extensive and intuitive, mirroring the simplicity of the original. Elements are logically arranged, with a backlit LCD screen displaying settings clearly. Each push button features the same backlighting for easy input selection and mode visibility. Users can adjust the brightness and contrast of the display to their liking.

The master volume control is a high-precision motorised ALPS potentiometer known for its longevity and low-noise operation. It automatically adjusts when changed via the remote control for seamless user experience. Additional rotary encoders provide quick access to QUAD-specific fine-tuning settings.

The original QUAD 33 included essential filters for then-current quality speakers, but today's technology allows for a more streamlined approach. The new model features bass adjustment, tilt control, and balance control, enabling refined tuning without disrupting the harmonic integrity crucial for authentic sound reproduction.

The bass control offers adjustment from -3dB to +3dB, perfect for modulating low-end frequencies in response to various source materials or room acoustics. The QUAD 34 (1982) introduced the Tilt control, a unique feature developed by QUAD founder Peter Walker. This audiophile-quality control allows simultaneous bass and treble adjustments, resulting in a more balanced tonal output.

Performance

At QUAD HQ in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, the service department's extensive experience ensures that the new 33 and 303 will only reach consumers if they surpass the original's performance. Over 50 years since the original's release, many innovations have been incorporated after rigorous testing and agreement from the QUAD technical and service team.

It’s reasonable to assert that the low-noise, custom-built toroidal transformer, numerous reservoir capacitors, and several regulators enhance the new QUAD 33's performance compared to its predecessor. The power supply features five regulated supply rails and an array of ultra-low-noise regulators, safeguarding signal integrity while maintaining short signal paths. Adjustments occur purely in the analog domain, reflecting QUAD’s commitment to quality.

Fit and Finish

The QUAD 33 boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic that nods to its heritage. The robust housing signifies quality, and the precise finish mirrors the level of attention to detail in the audio signal path. The anodised, custom-tooled fascia ensures durability, eliminating common issues associated with older panel designs.

Ultimately, the new QUAD 33 prioritises every detail to faithfully evolve the original concept. Throughout its development, a steadfast commitment to preserving the essence of the original sound has shone through every step.

We endeavour to despatch same day for orders placed up to 1pm on available stock items (items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 24 hours"). Please remember to check with us first for a physical stock check if next day delivery is important to you. Any items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 72 hours" are items that we do not hold in stock but order in from the importer or manufacturer as soon as a customer order is received. Occasionally these may be delayed beyond 72 hours due to importer/manufacturer stock levels but we will inform you as soon as we can if this is the case.

UK Orders

We despatch the bulk of our UK mainland items on a 24 hour service – Free of Charge. Non Mainland locations - Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles, the Scottish highlands and Islands, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland may take a day or so longer and are not Free of Charge. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail 24 or special delivery. Larger items are delivered using a courier service such as DPD or UPS.

International Orders

Due to the nature of our products and brand restrictions we are only able to send certain items internationally. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail Small Packets Airmail with International Tracked and/or Signed depending on value of item and availability of the service. Larger International shipments are sent by insured and tracked services using UPS. If there are any delays due to specific customs regulations, etc, you will be contacted by Hifisound or by the courier with a request for any further information required. Customs duties can apply for shipments to any countries outside of the UK depending on where the product you have bought is made. Customers are responsible for all taxes and duties incurred when the items enter their country.

Collect in Store or Home Install

At the request of the manufacturer some items cannot be supplied by mail order but you can click and buy them and then elect to collect them from our store or arrange a home install (if applicable). Applicable items clearly state that they are Collect in store or home install. Once ordered you will receive a message prompting you to contact us by phone or email to arrange for us to deliver and install or to reserve and collect from our store at your convenience, you will also be advised of the delivery time / stock availability as not all Home install / collect in store items are held in stock.