Overview
The 33 and 303 (also for sale in a separate listing) was Quad’s first transistor preamp/poweramp. Designed to last the ages, the combo is still one of the more sought after British classic pieces from that great 60/70s era. At $460 MSRP back in 1967, it wasn’t exactly cheap (it would have been $4,100 in today’s dollars) but when paired with the 303, the sound is just simply gorgeous. Tonal balance is on the warm side but making adjustments through its very useful tone controls, elevated its detail retrieval that brought about better definition. Some may find it to relaxing but with the right speaker combination, we found it very enjoyable. The three filter buttons on the front is used when listening to vinyl where you select the filter that bests reduced record surface noise and distortion in the high frequencies. Disc input is compatible with a MM cartridge.
Cosmetically, the unit looks really good with minor scuff marks here and there but nothing major. The grey finish with orange and white buttons gave it a very distinctive look that still looks really attractive today. Unit was recapped and serviced about three years ago so it is ready to be enjoyed for another twenty more years. Cables included are
- 5-pin DIN to 4 RCA tape deck cable
- 4-pin DIN to two RCA preout to amp cable
- 4-pin DIN to 4-pin DIN cable to connect this preamp to a QUAD poweramp
- 5-pin DIN to 2 RCA cable to connect to a component with RCA out
- 5-pin DIN to 2 female RCA cable if you want to use your regular RCA cable to connect your component to
- QUAD proprietary AC cable
Manual is available online and unit will be securely packed for safe shipping.
