Quad, the legendary British audio brand, has been awarded the EISA Pre/Power Amplifier Award for 2025-2026 for its reimagined Quad 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier combination. The Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA), a coalition of 54 specialist publications across 27 countries, praised the duo for blending the nostalgic charm of Peter Walker’s original 1967 designs with modern engineering to deliver a performance tailored for today’s audiophiles.
Most iconic pre/power amplifier pairings in hi-fi history
First introduced in 1967, the Quad 33 and 303 became one of the most iconic pre/power amplifier pairings in hi-fi history, with 120,000 units of the 33 and 94,000 units of the 303 sold by 1985. The 2024 reissue, launched in December, retains the compact dimensions and retro aesthetic of the originals while incorporating significant upgrades. Priced at £1,199 each, the new models offer exceptional value, costing less in real terms than the 1967 system when adjusted for inflation.
Quad 33 preamplifier
The Quad 33 preamplifier is a pure analog design, featuring a high-quality MM/MC phono stage with Analog Devices OP275 and LT1115 op-amps for precise RIAA equalization, alongside MELF resistors and WIMA MKP capacitors for superior sound quality. Modern connectivity includes RCA and XLR inputs and outputs, a headphone socket, and a USB-A port for firmware updates. The front panel sports a motorized ALPS volume control, a vibrant orange-backlit display, and intuitive rotary encoders for bass, tilt, and balance adjustments, preserving Quad’s signature tone controls with enhanced precision. A fully functional remote control adds contemporary convenience.
Quad 303 power amplifier
The Quad 303 power amplifier delivers 50W per channel into 8 ohms in stereo mode, with the option to bridge two units for 140W mono output, providing robust power for modern speakers. Its Class AB design retains the original’s innovative “triples” output stage, updated with high-quality modern components to ensure low distortion (THD+N of 0.005% at 1W) and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 108dB. The 303’s alloy case with front-facing heatsinks keeps it cool, while RCA and XLR inputs and multi-way binding posts enhance versatility.
Wide, crisply detailed soundstages
EISA lauded the combination for conjuring “wide, crisply detailed soundstages that captivate the listener,” noting the 303’s increased Class AB power and the 33’s improved connectivity and ease of use.
The reissue, designed by a team including Quad’s Chief Designer Jan Ertner and Director of Acoustic Design Peter Comeau, maintains Peter Walker’s philosophy of “the closest approach to the original sound” while leveraging modern materials for enhanced performance. The 33 and 303’s titanium metallic finish and meticulous build quality evoke a premium feel.
Available globally through distributors listed on Quad’s website, the 33 and 303 have seen high demand, with backorders reflecting their popularity. Whether paired with vintage Quad ESL-57 speakers or contemporary models, this pre/power duo delivers a lush, engaging sound that honors its heritage while meeting modern expectations, making it a worthy recipient of the EISA Award for 2025-2026.
