Quad 3 Integrated Amplifier

Inspired by the iconic QUAD 22 preamplifier, the QUAD 3 boasts a modern and sophisticated aesthetic, in keeping with the latest reissues of the QUAD 33 and 303. The Quad 3 offers a compact and elegant form factor with a distinctly vintage feel while still providing access to modern technologies. It nevertheless remains faithful to QUAD's rich heritage of audio design and performance.

QUAD 3 AMPLIFIER: Front Panel

Like the critically acclaimed 33/303 pair, the QUAD 3's industrial design is a subtle nod to the past. It features the QUAD 33's orange LCD, for intuitive feedback on functions, with settings, parameters, options, and source selections. Users can customize the backlight brightness or even turn it off. The classic orange keys echo the aesthetics of the legendary QUAD 33. Meanwhile, the touch-sensitive row of digital encoders offers precise control over volume, source selection, balance, and bass. The QUAD "Tilt" control allows for precise adjustment of the audio spectrum equalization without artificial coloration.

QUAD 3 AMPLIFIER: connections

The QUAD 3 offers scalable connectivity, making it a versatile amplifier that meets all the needs of a contemporary music system.

A USB audio input, supports high-resolution audio up to 768 kHz/DSD512 and ensures a perfect connection for a PC or Mac.

The coaxial and optical S/PDIF inputs handle high-resolution audio up to 192 kHz. They are ideal for a CD player, streamer, or other digital sources.

The HDMI ARC input allows you to connect a TV directly to your audio system, while using your TV remote to control the volume.

The Quad 3 also offers Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity that supports the aptX HD codec, so you can enjoy 24-bit high-resolution audio over Bluetooth without compromise.

The Quad 3 integrated amplifier is also designed specifically for analog enthusiasts. It is equipped with a high-performance phono stage. This high-definition phono stage offers low noise and precise RIAA equalization. This integrated preamp offers superior sound quality compared to standard phono stages in this price range.

A multi-function remote control offers intuitive navigation, making it easy to adjust volume, change sources, fine-tune bass and treble, activate the famous “Tilt” control and easily navigate the many menu options.

QUAD 3 AMPLIFIER: Technology

At the heart of the QUAD 3's digital brain is a state-of-the-art ESS9038Q2M DAC chipset paired with a Class A post-DAC filter circuit. This configuration fully exploits the sonic potential of digital sources. Oversampling can be applied to SPDIF and USB audio sources at 352.8 kHz or 384 kHz.

The QUAD 3 functions as a full MQA decoder, faithfully recreating the original studio sound with compensation specific to the file being listened to.

For added flexibility, five selectable digital filters allow you to fine-tune the sound for different digital sources, ensuring optimal playback regardless of format or streaming service.

Despite its small size, the QUAD 3 offers a class AB power stage of 2 x 65w under 8 ohms and 2 x 100w under 4 ohms.

A 235VA toroidal transformer is paired with a 30,000µF reservoir to ensure headroom and low distortion. The QUAD 3 effortlessly powers asking speakers with control and authority.

QUAD 3 incorporates a separate headphone amplifier circuit with current feedback, reproducing the precision of the main amplifier.

QUAD AMPLIFIER 3: Equalization

The QUAD 3 amplifier features touch-sensitive rotary controls for volume, source selection, bass adjustment, QUAD tilt, and balance. The bass control adjusts low frequencies by +/- 3 dB, adding richness and depth or removing rumble depending on the component, system, or room. The tilt control simultaneously adjusts both ends of the frequency spectrum, either reducing bass and boosting treble, or boosting bass and reducing treble in 1 dB increments. Tilting the audible frequency range on a 700 Hz axis adjusts the overall sound balance for a warmer or cooler sound, depending on the recording and/or room acoustics.

QUAD 3 AMPLIFIER: test and listening

From the very first bars, we find the charm and fluidity of Quad "Vintages" products. While retaining these qualities, the QUAD 3 imposes better clarity, a much more open soundstage and incomparable transparency.

The QUAD 3 allows music to express itself with ease and enthusiasm. It is agile with any style of music and remains authentic in its musicality. While retaining this sound specific to the brand, it offers a very beautiful dynamic and rich The phono stage is also an excellent surprise. It offers dynamic and deep bass, an open and punchy midrange associated with a precise and silky treble. We also find an excellent soundstage. All these qualities are surprisingly found, also on the headphone output.

QUAD is back with a new retro/modern model that's very easy to use and versatile. It offers remarkable performance regardless of the source.

At the price offered it is excellent value for money, which combines Vintage and Modernity and which makes it an atypical amplifier.

He seduced us!