Quad
Est. 1936
United Kingdom
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.
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Introducing the QUAD Platina Integrated Amplifier: Excellence in Innovation
The QUAD PLATINA Integrated amplifier merges classic design with modern digital innovation, offering both aesthetics and functionality for audiophiles.
Featuring a dual mono Class AB amplifier, it delivers 2x200W at 8 ohms and 2x300W at 4 ohms, ensuring significant power and performance.
Its ES9038Pro DAC supports up to 768kHz PCM and DSD512 formats, providing high-fidelity digital audio reproduction.
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.
Quad Platina Stream Unveiled: A New Era of Streaming DACs
Quad introduced the Platina Stream, its inaugural streaming DAC, showcasing advanced features and a high-quality design for audio enthusiasts.
The device incorporates the ESS ES9038PRO DAC chip, supporting up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512 audio resolutions with five user-selectable filters.
Connectivity includes balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs, multiple digital inputs, Ethernet, USB-A/B ports, and extensive streaming support like Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify, and Roon.
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.
Jumbi: A Fusion of Caribbean Spirit and Hi-Fi Sound in Peckham, London
Hi-fi audio setup with Quad amps and custom-modified Isonoe turntable creates an unmatched sound experience for audiophiles.
Authentic Caribbean cuisine and rum-infused cocktails elevate the cultural immersion.
A vibrant community hub blending music, food, and joyful connections in Peckham.
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 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.
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.
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