Basically, the whole QUAD 303 power amplifier is a lot more than just a component upgrade. Although initially created for home use, it was also a great choice for broadcasting and recording studios due to its reliability. The outstanding performance of the QUAD 303 is still celebrated to this day. Plus, it is largely due to the unique output circuit developed by QUAD.
Quad 303 Power Amplifier
The feature of the original Peter Walker triples output stage is still one of the selling points of the Quad 303 Power Amplifier. This sophisticated feedback system is characterized by a small fraction of the negative feedback in comparison with other amplifier designs.
Consequently, it has better heat stability. This results in lower distortion and the output stage current becoming less sensitive to changes in temperature. In addition, new parts deliver a fully symmetrical output stage. The advantages are a low idle current and good stability.
Redesigned Toroidal Transformer
A new toroidal transformer has been designed for the Quad 303 Power Amplifier. This 200VA module is a low magnetic field type. Furthermore, the original class A/B layout is still preserved. Hence, the unit can be considered as a cool runner in view of the power output available. Also, it is characterized by good dynamics.
The classic QUAD 303 has always been admired for its conservative yet consistent power-output. It was officially rated @ 45W / 8 ohms. The 303’s venerability is in the performance finesse rather than the raw power. The new model is thoroughly the same.
50 Watts into 8 Ohms
By the way, with a little tweaking and some enhancements, the 303 is carrying a bit more power. Giving 50W / 8 ohms (70W / 4 ohms) and maximum current delivery of 10A into extremely difficult loads. The original 303 was known to be problematic with lower impedance loads, the new 303 is absolutely fine.
It matches perfectly the more demanding requirements of the modern audiophile and is capable of driving any speakers. Even QUAD’s electrostatic ones – with no problem.
Connectivity
The connectivity options are single-ended RCA and balanced XLR inputs, a 12V trigger input and high-quality speaker binding posts. Inside and out – simple, solid and thoroughly authentic. The ‘bridged mode’ (used as a mono-block power amplifier) power output reaches 140W / 8 ohms or 170W / 4 ohms (bridged mono).
If we think about it, the smallest amount of theoretical distortion that can be detected on the original recording will still be some hundreds of times greater than that which a QUAD 303 can produce!
Features and Benefits
- Rich and Warm Sound Quality: This kind of sound not only accurately reflects the original music. But also gives someone the feeling of the music source’s warmth.
- Hybrid Current Dumping Amplifier Design: The hybrid current dumping amplifier design uses technology that can produce without the distortion sound and that is continuous.
- Ease of Maintenance: If you clear the instruction in your mind. Then you will manage to fix it on your own in no time. So you can have it in a working state at all times.
- Legacy Appeal: Those who will still be up to the point when they are using it are the ones who feel that they are vintage Hi-Fi user’s pride.
Summary of the Quad 303 Power Amplifier
The industrial design of the new QUAD 303 is instantly recognisable and is ‘true QUAD’. The anodised chassis CNC-routed heat sinks on either side offer enduring quality which the tank housing also provides a rugged structure that resists interference from external vibrations. The outstanding performance of the QUAD 303 is still celebrated to this day. It is largely due to the unique output circuit developed by QUAD.
In reissuing the QUAD 303 power amplifier concept, exactly like the matching 33 preamplifer. QUAD’s incomparably experienced service team was matched with the equally adept engineering team to reinvoke the design, romance and performance in a thoroughly modern iteration of a hi-fi legend. As with the new QUAD 33, every aspect of design and performance has been analysed and re-engineered way beyond simply modernising components and refreshing of specifications.
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