Quad Elite Pre Amplifier

Here we have a classic Quad pre-amplifier from its Elite series of components. Coming in very good condition, with remote control unit, manual, mains cable, link cable and original factory packaging, plus our standard three month warranty.
Quad Say….
In designing the Elite Series, the challenge for Quads engineers was to improve upon the established 99 Series without undermining the qualities that made the range so successful. Outwardly, the components are similar, retaining the midi-width aluminium casework and distinctive look of the 99 Series models, with enhanced build quality and subtly updated styling.
However, the critical changes are within. A painstaking redesign operation began three years ago, with every internal component scrutinised in turn. Through an exhaustive process of modifying, measuring, listening then modifying again, the 99 Series models gradually evolved into their Elite counterparts. Throughout this process, Quads original slogan – “the closest approach to the original sound” – was paramount. Only modifications that brought about a tangible improvement in sound quality were sanctioned for the final designs, with tight tolerances strictly adhered to in order to ensure perfect matching from unit to unit.
The Elite Pre forms the heart of any system in which it is placed, and a great deal of work has been undertaken to further enhance the excellent levels of musical transparency delivered by its 99 Series predecessor. This has been achieved by careful component selection and re-tuning of the signal path, whilst maintaining the advanced facilities that are unique to Quads solid-state preamps, including Quad Link and Amp Bus connectivity (see below), bypass-switchable filter adjustment for bass and treble, and Quads unique tilt control that tailors the entire frequency response to suit the users preferred balance.
The Elite Pre is packed with technical innovation including noiseless solid-state signal switching and digitally addressed analogue volume and balance controls, which track both left and right channels with exceptional accuracy (better than 0.1dB). A highly specified phono stage is provided for turntables, too.
Specifications:
Tone Adjust: Bass and Treble filters; Quad Tilt
Inputs: 4x RCA (inc. tape loop); MM/MC phono input
Outputs: 1x pre-out (RCA)
Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.002 %
Input Sensitivity: 3 mV (MM), 300 mV (line)
Signal To Noise Ratio: 78 dB (MM), 97 dB (line)
Output: 300 mV (line), 0.775 V (Pre out), 3.3 V (Pre out Max)
Dimensions: 321 (W) x 310 (D) x 70 (H) mm
Weight: 4.42 kg

For a review from Hi-Fi Choice magazine please click HERE