QUAD 405-2 + QUAD 44

Second-hand, both units show multiple signs of wear (see photos). No original packaging.

The Quad 44 and Quad 405-2 form a preamplifier and power amplifier combo that remains highly appreciated today for their sound quality, build reliability, and the timeless charm of British engineering. Born in an era when hi-fi meant innovation and elegance, these two components perfectly embody the philosophy of Quad founder Peter Walker: functional simplicity, technical precision, and a lack of unnecessary frills.

The Quad 44 preamplifier features a modular structure, allowing users to customize its configuration based on their needs. Equipped with Tape, Radio, Aux, and Phono inputs. On the top panel, there is a dark plexiglass flap concealing advanced sensitivity controls for the inputs, including the MM phono input with multiple gain and impedance settings.

The outputs include both DIN and RCA options, with varying signal levels to better match different power amplifiers. The tone controls are particularly original—complex and unconventional—designed to intervene subtly yet effectively on the sonic character. The "Tilt" control gradually alters the balance between highs and lows without changing overall volume; the bass control can be set to Step or Lift modes, while the sophisticated "Filter" system affects high frequencies with various slopes and cutoff points, allowing for fine corrections—especially useful for low-quality recordings. Though ingenious and advanced, these controls may not be immediately intuitive for the average user, contributing to the 44's reputation for complexity and making it more appealing to technicians and purists than to the mainstream audience.

The Quad 405-2 power amplifier is the result of Walker’s innovation and his revolutionary Current Dumping circuit. With 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the 405-2 combines the finesse of tube sound with the efficiency and stability of transistor amplification. Thanks to this technology, distortion remains extremely low, while dynamic response stays vivid and natural. The circuit is designed to protect against short circuits or highly reactive loads by limiting output current, thus safeguarding internal components.

Aesthetically, the 405-2 maintains a functional and understated style: no power switch, no display, just a red LED to indicate operation. The absence of buttons and the compact design are in line with Quad’s minimalist philosophy, favoring practical, essential solutions over flashy electronics. The connection between the 44 and 405-2 is made easier by DIN connectors and a shared power system, which can be limiting for those wanting to pair the 405-2 with preamps from other brands.

Together, the Quad 44 and 405-2 represent one of the most successful European interpretations of 1970s–80s hi-fi. Even today, decades later, they continue to earn praise from collectors, audiophiles, and fans of the British tradition—proof of a design quality that has stood the test of time.

Technical specifications – Quad 44

• Preamplifier with 5 inputs
• Frequency response: 30Hz – 20kHz
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.05%
• Input sensitivity: 3mV (MM); 100mV (line)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 72dB (MM); 86dB (line)
• Outputs: 100mV (line); 0.5V (Pre out)
• Dimensions: 321 x 103 x 207mm
• Weight: 4kg

Technical specifications – Quad 405-2

• Stereo power amplifier
• Distortion (8-ohm load, sine wave, 100W output): ≤ 0.01% at 100Hz; ≤ 0.01% at 1kHz; ≤ 0.01% at 10kHz
• Output internal impedance: 3.3μH; 0.03Ω single channel
• Offset voltage: ≤ 7mV
• Frequency response (1kHz reference): -1dB at 20Hz (low); -0.1dB at 20kHz, -3dB at 50kHz (high)
• Input sensitivity: 0.5V (8-ohm load, 100W output)
• Input impedance: 20kΩ // 220pF
• Slew rate: 0.1V/μs
• Maximum input limit: +20dB (instant recovery)
• Crosstalk (1kΩ input load): 80dB at 100Hz; 70dB at 1kHz; 60dB at 10kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 96dB (A-weighted); 93dB (unweighted)
• Power supply: 100–130V; 200–250V; 50–60Hz
• Dimensions: 340.5 x 115 x 195mm (W x H x D)
• Weight: 9kg