Quad 3 Integrated amplifier

Quad 3 - 65 watt Integrated Amplifier

The all-new Quad 3 is far more than an updated Vena; it has taken the leap into next-level performance and improved in all areas. Combining Classic Quad design with cutting-edge connectivity, the Quad 3 is the most complete amplifier Quad have ever produced and cements a new era in the company's history.  Styled with a nod to the 22 and sharing the modern aesthetic of the latest 33, Quad 3 has the trademark Orange lit LCD strip and rotating dials that include the classic Quad Tilt control. 

Key Features

• Integrated stereo amp for high-performance, multi-source audio systems
• Inspired by classic 20th-century QUAD design, elevated by new technology
• Signature QUAD features include Tilt tone control
• Digital inputs include USB, HDMI ARC and Bluetooth
• Ultra-resolution digital audio – 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512
• Class AB power amp stage with Complementary Feedback design
• Delivers 65W per channel into 8 ohms
• High-quality phono stage and headphone amp
• Compact 30cm-wide footprint

Built around the ESS9038Q2M DAC, special attention has been made to the Class A post DAC filter and customer-designed power supply, resulting in control, depth, and an air of expression only the best-designed amplifiers can achieve. 

There is a USB input alongside the AptX HD Bluetooth, Coaxial, Optical inputs and, for the first time on a Quad product, HDMI ARC.

A high-resolution MM Phono Stage and dedicated Headphone amplifier are also fitted. Pre-outs are also fitted, meaning you can open up the possibility of 1 or 2 Quad 303 power amps to take your listening experience even further. 

The QUAD 3 is packed with future-proof connectivity, making it a versatile hub for all the requirements of a contemporary music system.

Digital Versatility

USB Audio Input: Supports hi-res audio up to 768kHz/DSD512, ensuring flawless connection for PC & Mac.

Coaxial and Optical S/PDIF Inputs: Handle hi-res audio up to 192kHz, ideal for CD players, streamers, and digital sources.

HDMI ARC Input: Brings TV sound directly to your audio system with the convenience of using your TV’s remote to control volume and power.

Bluetooth 5.1: Enables seamless streaming from smart devices. With support for the aptX HD codec, enjoy 24-bit hi-res audio over Bluetooth without compromise.

Phono Perfection

Vinyl enthusiasts will delight in the high-definition MM phono stage, offering low-noise performance and precise RIAA equalisation. This built-in preamp provides superior sound quality compared to standard phono stages in this price range.

Analogue Purity

Two line-level RCA inputs ensure seamless integration with analogue sources.

For those who prefer to stream high-resolution audio directly from their computer, the QUAD 3 features a dedicated USB-B input that supports hi-res playback up to 768 kHz PCM and DSD512 formats. This makes it an ideal solution for audiophiles who rely on their PC or laptop as a primary source for digital music. With plug-and-play functionality, the QUAD 3 effortlessly transforms your computer into a high-end digital audio source, delivering pristine sound quality and unlocking the full potential of high-resolution music files. Whether you’re using streaming platforms, local files, or advanced playback software, the QUAD 3 ensures every detail is captured and reproduced with breathtaking clarity. 

At the heart of QUAD 3’s digital brain lies a state-of-the-art ESS9038Q2M DAC chipset, expertly implemented to deliver precise and detailed sound. Paired with a Class A post-DAC filter circuit, this configuration extracts the maximum sonic potential from digital sources. 

Upsampling can be applied to the audio from both SPDIF and USB audio sources. The digital audio is upsampled to either 352.8 kHz or 384 kHz. 

The QUAD 3 functions as a full MQA decoder, faithfully recreating the original studio sound with file-specific compensation. For further flexibility, five user-selectable digital filters give the option to fine-tune the sound to suit different sources, ensuring optimal playback regardless of the format or streaming service. 

Despite its modest footprint, the QUAD 3 is a compact powerhouse. The Class AB Amplification stage is equipped with a custom-engineered power supply.

A robust 235VA toroidal transformer feeds the amplifier, supported by a 30,000uF reservoir to ensure dynamic headroom and low distortion. Rated at 65W per channel (8 ohms) and peaking at 100W (4 ohms), the QUAD 3 effortlessly drives demanding loudspeakers with control and authority- in proper QUAD form! 

For headphone aficionados, the QUAD 3 includes a separate current-feedback headphone amp circuit that mirrors the precision of the main amplifier. Expect flawless transient reproduction and distortion-free listening. 

The QUAD 22 influences can be seen in the subtle accents of the facia, and neat row of digital encoders. These tactile rotary controllers provide volume control, source selection, bass control, QUAD ‘tilt’ control and balance adjustment. The bass adjust allows +/-3dB adjustment of the low-end frequencies, adding richness and depth or removing rumble according to your components, system or room. But the ‘Tilt’ control differs by adjusting both ends of the frequency spectrum together, either attenuating the bass and lifting the treble or lifting the bass and attenuating the treble in 1dB steps. ‘Tilting’ the audible frequency range on a 700Hz axis, thereby adjusting the overall sound balance to make it either 'warmer' or 'cooler' to suit the recording and/or the room acoustics. 

The QUAD 3 doesn’t just offer superior audio performance — it also delivers a seamless user experience with its full-function remote control. Designed with intuitive navigation in mind, the remote allows users to effortlessly adjust volume, switch between sources, fine-tune bass and treble, engage the renowned ‘Tilt’ control, and navigate through the extensive menu options with ease. Whether you're across the room or in the comfort of your listening chair, the QUAD 3’s remote gives you complete command over your listening experience, making it as convenient as it is high-performing.