QUAD 33 90 Collection
QUAD 33 90 Collection
Analogue preamplifier with MM and MC phono stage
An unmistakable QUAD design, with a new expression for the brand’s ninetieth anniversary. The QUAD 33 90 Collection combines satin black styling and green illumination with the purposeful analogue engineering of the modern 33 preamplifier.
From the first turn of its volume control to the fine adjustment of QUAD Tilt, the 33 places the listener in control. Balanced connections, a switchable MM/MC phono stage and dedicated headphone amplification bring lasting relevance to an iconic design.
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The 33 in a new light
The QUAD 33 is recognised as much by its thoughtful arrangement of controls as by its compact proportions. The 90 Collection retains that familiarity while introducing satin black surfaces, green display illumination and coordinated accents.
The result belongs naturally beside the 90 Collection QUAD 303 and WS3. It also shares the contemporary character of QUAD PLATINA, bringing different generations of QUAD design into a common visual language.
This anniversary finish is a permanent addition to the range. The classic colourway continues alongside it, offering another expression of the same preamplifier and the same commitment to the original sound.
An analogue signal path with a clear purpose
The 33 is an analogue preamplifier. It selects your source, provides volume and tonal adjustment, and sends the resulting signal to a separate power amplifier. Digital control makes operation convenient while the audio path remains analogue.
A motorised ALPS potentiometer gives the volume control its direct, tactile feel and allows adjustment from the remote handset. Careful power regulation and a short signal path support low-noise operation.
Vinyl at the heart of the system
The built-in phono stage accommodates moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, switchable between the two types. This allows a suitable turntable to connect directly, with no separate phono preamplifier required.
It gives the 33 a lasting place in a vinyl system, with cartridge compatibility considered from the outset. Whether enjoying a familiar record collection or exploring a new cartridge, the 33 provides the flexibility to make the most of vinyl playback.
Fine adjustment for the way you listen
The QUAD Tilt control offers a considered way to adjust overall tonal balance. It changes bass and treble in opposite directions around a 700Hz axis, allowing a subtle shift towards a warmer or cooler presentation.
Separate bass and balance controls provide further adjustment for the recording, room and loudspeaker arrangement. Clear display feedback makes settings easy to understand, while adjustable illumination lets the 33 settle into your listening environment.
Connections for a complete analogue system
Three RCA line inputs and a balanced XLR input provide space for analogue sources. RCA and balanced XLR preamplifier outputs connect to the QUAD 303 or another suitable power amplifier; an additional RCA AUX output adds flexibility.
A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier provides a direct route to private listening. The compact form and remote control make the 33 a practical everyday component as well as a distinctive piece of QUAD design.
Specifications
| Model | QUAD 33 |
| General Description | Preamplifier |
| Design Philosophy and Core Technology | Illuminated LCD screen Dedicated High Performance Low Noise MM/MC Phono stage Classic QUAD 'Tilt' adjustment Classic QUAD Tone Controls Dedicated Current-Feedback Headphone Amplifier |
| Inputs | 3 x stereo RCA line inputs, 1 x stereo balanced XLR input, 1 x switchable MM/MC phono input |
| Outputs | 1 x fixed-level stereo RCA output, 1 x balanced stereo XLR pre-out, 1 x unbalanced stereo RCA pre-out, 1 x headphone output, 2 x 12V trigger outputs |
| Preamplifier Section | |
| Gain | 0dB (Line / XLR) +46dB (Phono MM) +63.5dB (Phono MC) |
| Input Sensitivity (Vout=695mV) | 695mV (Line / XLR) 3.2mV (Phono MM) 460uV (Phono MC) |
| Input Impedance | 10k ohms (Line / XLR) 47k ohms / 100pF (Phono MM) 100 ohms / 1.7nF (Phono MC) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | <0.0005% (1kHz, Line/XLR) <0.002% (1kHz, Phono MM / MC) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 20kHz (+/-0.2dB) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) | > 108dB (A-weighted, Line/XLR) > 82dB (A-weighted, Phono MM) > 74dB (A-weighted, Phono MC) |
| Output Impedance | 120 ohms |
| Headphone Amplifier | |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.01% (1kHz, 50mW) |
| Output Impedance | 2.35 ohms |
| Load Impedance | 20 - 600 ohms |
| General | |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
| Net weight | 4kg |
| Gross weight | 4.96kg |
| Dimensions (mm) (W x H x D) | 258 x 94 x 165 |
| Carton Size (mm) (W x H x D) | 330 x 192 x 257 |
| Finish | Classic QUAD Grey / Black |
| Power requirements (depending on region) | 220 - 240V - 50/60Hz 100 - 120V - 50/60Hz |
| Standard accessories | Power Cable Remote Handset 2 x AAA batteries User Manual |
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