News

Quad’s 33 preamp and 303 power amp, originally released 56 years ago [HFN Apr ’68], have been resurrected. Priced £1199 each, these ’24 editions showcase ‘faithful’ revisions of the originals’ transistor-based electronics and chassis designs, plus new features that better reflect 21st century hi-fi.

The 33 remains an analogue preamp, but the DIN socketry of its forebear has been replaced by balanced XLR (x1) and unbalanced RCA (x3) inputs, balanced/unbalanced outs, RCA phono in, and12V triggers. Settings, including MM/MC gain adjustment, plus bass and ‘Tilt’ tone controls, are shown on an LCD display, backlit orange to match the amp’s push-button controls. A headphone amplifier (with 6.35mm socket) and IR remote have also been added.

The 303 keeps its vertical orientation and the ‘advanced feedback’ triples output topology of original designer Peter Walker is now rated at 50W/8ohm (70W/4ohm). Quad has added the option of a 140W/8ohm bridged mono mode, claiming a boosted max. current delivery of 10A.

Quad Hifi (IAG), UK, 01480 452561; www.quad-hifi.co.uk