Suitable high res streamer

Johntheboat

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Oct 28, 2020
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I am running an authentic quad system 33, 303 and esl57s but looking to stream high res for convenience. I have read there is likely to be an issue with the line in levels of modern equipment for the 303. Before I shell out £500 for a streamer any advice? All input line level or not (😂) welcome.
 

Johntheboat

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I’m using a thorens turntable through a project phono stage, for radio I’m using the line out from a basic pure dab radio. Both sound good to be fair!
 

Gray

Well-known member
I’m using a thorens turntable through a project phono stage, for radio I’m using the line out from a basic pure dab radio. Both sound good to be fair!
The Issue with your Quad is that its DIN inputs ideally require a lower level signal than it will get from a streamer's DAC.
This link explains the implications of that and what attenuation does (a good alternative brand of attenuators is Rothwell):
Of course a streamer / DAC with variable output would give you an attenuation option, but some DACs compromise audio quality as a by-product of reducing volume - in which case it's best to use fixed, full (or fixed attenuated) output and control volume using the preamp's control.
 

Gray

Well-known member
Thank you. Is this an e pensive / complex fix ? The inside of the 33 is a bit scary!
No need to go inside your amp.
But in your case you would need the type Rothwell describe as 'source' attenuators.
They would connect to the streamer / DAC output sockets, then your interconnect lead goes from them to the Quad input.
I suggest the -10dB versions would be suitable.
(If you found you needed greater attenuation, you could exchange for -15dB if you bought from somewhere that allowed returns).
 
There are a few firms who specialise in Quad who I’ve read will modify - that is reduce - the input sensitivity to suit sources like CD and streamers, which typically yield up to 2 volts. Back in Quad tuner and reel-to-reel tape days, something like 300mV was more typical. As you can imagine, 6 or 7 times the input can overload the preamp leading to distortion, and the volume control only working over the first few degrees of rotation. Neither of those are what you want!

I can’t name any places, but Mr Google should probably know.

Otherwise, attenuating the output is the way to go, unless you find a streamer that has output level adjustments - like my old Linn Sneaky DS, used only for c £400, for example.
 

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