The new and upgraded Quad 33 Pre-Amplifier works with a digital control system. It still uses its analogue dynamics. Expressing its tendency towards traditions and technological developments.
Quad 33 Pre-Amplifier
Yet, it has modern features such as a backlit display, LED illumination, and remote control functionality. The high-quality machined and anodized front panel, all metal chassis, and the new digital control system contribute to the modern finish.
MM/MC Cartridge Compatibility
The 33 employs dedicated stereo pre-outs to furnish the loudspeakers with power through the power amplifier. Offering a line RCA and balanced XLR pre-out option. For further versatility and functionality, an AUX output is also present.
The 33, equipped now with fully balanced XLR inputs and outputs, differentiates itself not only from other preamplifiers but also from its predecessor model.
Phono Input MM and MC
The newly designed phono stage supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil without the need to change the settings or upgrade the board when switching from one type to another. By using ultra-low noise audio op-amps, the input stage achieves a gain of 46dB for the MM and 63.5dB for the MC.
Such ultra-low noise results are supported by high slew rates and very low distortion specs. The RIAA processing circuit comprises its own dual Bipolar/JFET Audio Operational Amplifier. The JFET segment of the input stage facilitates high slew rates which in turn maintain the distortion at a minimum level. Even where output swings of large size are demanded.
Precision Motorised ALPS Potentiometer
The master volume control houses a fully analogue, precision motorised ALPS potentiometer. Which is designed to provide long-life and low-noise performance. Besides being highly tactile and precise, the volume control’s motorised feature will initiate a rotation automatically. Whenever adjustments are made with the remote control.
Three endless rotary encoders in a further row enable quick, direct adjustment of QUAD specific features fine-tuning settings.
Tilt Control
By way of example, the original QUAD 33 like many previous and subsequent QUAD preamplifier components. Provided filters that were considered necessary for ‘modern good quality speakers’ (as was stated at that time).
Since such controls are no longer required, the new QUAD 33 offers in its present bass adjustment, tilt control, and balance control reflective of applying present-day logic and suitability to technology today. In that it allows tuning to a fine degree without unnecessarily intruding the harmonic range essential for realistic reproduction.
The bass control permits an adjustment from -3dB to +3dB. It is ideal for the low-end fine-tuning. Done in a manner that thins the bass components of the room in case they are ‘boomy’ due to room acoustics already anyhow. The evolution of loudspeakers and source materials from the time of the launch of the original QUAD 33 has mostly resulted in improvements.
It is in this context that the tilt control came to be incorporated in the QUAD 33’s successor. The QUAD 34 (1982),
Features and Benefits
- Pure Sound: Just music, no droning or distractions.
- Longevity: With proper care, they are capable of lasting for a very long time.
- Easy to Install: You are not going to rely on the manual at all because it will be something simple.
- Vintage Look: Works well with any home audio system.
Summary of the Quad 33 Pre-Amplifier
The new editions continue to preserve and even raise these essential qualities in all aspects. They reflect the unique smooth sound that distinguished these units from transistor-based amps back in the day. While at the same time offering more clarity, detail, bandwidth, and dynamic impact.
In addition to recalling the charm of the original using this pre/power amp. The extensive research and development over the last 50 years have resulted in a very beautiful product that is equally enjoyable with any source. Be it track after track or symphony after symphony.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.