44

About the 44

The Quad 44 is a compact, solid-state preamplifier introduced in the early 1980s by Quad Electroacoustics. It features five interchangeable inputs (Disc, Tape 1, Tape 2, Radio, Auxiliary) that accommodate virtually all program sources, including moving coil pickups and microphones with optional modules. The unit includes tone controls such as filter, bass, and an innovative tilt control that simultaneously boosts bass while reducing treble or vice versa, allowing correction for acoustic problems and speaker placement. It is designed to ensure no audible degradation of the program signal when the filter is bypassed. The Quad 44 is well-built with high-quality components and minimal wiring, though its mechanical switches and multiple op-amps may slightly affect sound transparency. It is compatible with various power amplifiers, including the Quad 405 and 405-2. Upgrades with modern components can enhance its performance further. Dimensions are 321 x 103 x 207 mm, and it weighs 4 kg.