Quad

About Quad

Quad Electroacoustics, originally the Acoustical Manufacturing Company Ltd., was founded by Peter J. Walker in 1936 in London, with the name 'QUAD' being an acronym for 'Quality Unit Amplifier Domestic.' The company relocated to Huntingdon in 1941 after being bombed during WWII and revolutionized audio with the 1957 Quad Electrostatic Loudspeaker (ESL), the first production full-range electrostatic speaker. Quad's motto 'The Closest Approach to the Original Sound' reflects their commitment to sonic transparency. In 1997, Quad joined the International Audio Group (IAG) based in Shenzhen, China, though R&D and service operations remain in Huntingdon, England. Under IAG ownership, Quad continues producing their renowned ESL electrostatic speakers (current ESL 2812/2912 models), plus integrated amplifiers, wireless streamers, CD players, passive speakers, preamplifiers, power amplifiers, and headphones through their Artera, VENA, and Revela series.

Quad Introduces its Finest Integrated Amplifier: The Platina Series

The Quad Platina Integrated amplifier is a Class A/B device offering 200wpc into 8 Ohms and 300wpc into 4 Ohms.
It incorporates a 630VA ultra-low-noise toroidal transformer and 44,000uF filter capacity per channel for high fidelity.
Digital inputs include USB-C (DSD512, 768kHz PCM), HDMI ARC, and features an ESS Labs ES90308PRO DAC chip.

Introducing the QUAD 3 Integrated Amplifier: A Blend of Vintage Elegance and Modern Precision

The QUAD 3 integrated amplifier combines classic QUAD aesthetics with advanced audio technologies, catering to both analogue and digital audiophile preferences.
Features include a 65W per channel Class AB amplifier and an ESS9038Q2M DAC supporting MQA decoding and high-resolution playback up to 768kHz PCM/DSD512.
Connectivity options encompass USB, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD, MM phono stage, and multiple analogue and digital inputs.

NITSCH and Schiit Transform Amplification with Magni Piety

NITSCH x Schiit Magni Piety**: Compact amplifier with Schiit's "Continuity" circuit, offering 1.2W per channel at 16 ohms; limited exclusive run.
Marantz M1 Wireless Streaming Amplifier**: 100W per channel, HEOS integration, eARC HDMI support, compact design suitable for 2.1 systems; priced under $1000.
Quad 3 Integrated Amplifier**: Retro-styled 65W Class A/B amp with ESS Sabre DAC decoding up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512; versatile input options.

Quad Unveils Sixth-Generation Electrostatic Speakers - The ESL 2812X and 2912X

Quad's iconic Electrostatic Loudspeakers (ESLs) have reached their sixth generation with the release of the ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X models.
Introduced in 1957, these speakers feature a thin Mylar diaphragm suspended in an electrostatic field for exceptional audio clarity and speed.
Improvements include refined panels, modular electronics replacing single PCBs, and enhanced transformers, extending flat response beyond 18kHz.

EISA 2025-2026 Stereo Amplifiers Winners Overview

The Marantz Model 10, awarded EISA High-End Integrated Amplifier 2025-2026, combines Purifi Class D modules and copper shielding for exceptional audio clarity.
Musical Fidelity B1xi, winning EISA Best Value Integrated Amplifier 2025-2026, features Class AB topology with modern upgrades including USB port and HDMI eARC.
Marantz Model 60n, honored as EISA Streaming Amplifier 2025-2026, supports HEOS, AirPlay 2, and Roon for versatile streaming and audio playback.

Quad Unveils Next-Gen Electrostatic Speakers with the ESL 2812X and 2912X

The Quad ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X introduce advancements in electrostatic loudspeaker technology with modernized components and improved performance.
Featuring a modular electronics design with high-voltage multipliers and enhanced audio transformers for better signal dynamics and transient response.
The ESL 2912X includes six electrostatic panels compared to the ESL 2812X's four, offering extended frequency range and greater scale for large spaces.