Quad update

[Bonky]

Hi,

So impressed was I with a modified Quad306 that I looked for a 405-2 model or 606; then I came across this UK maker and distributor of 405 clones at an unbelievable price:

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/332079392104?ul_noapp=true

OK, the cases look 'industrial' to say the least and I'm not sure that the VU meters are really needed but the build quality and customer reviews look appealing.

The silver edition looks much better than the black I think.

He also does preamps and other power amps.

Does anyone have any knowledge/experience of these?

Usual disclaimers.

Thanks,

(Also messaged to the Audio Standard forum)

[Arkless Electronics]

Chinese modules put together in UK by the look of things.... Just saying...

[Bonky]

Chinese modules put together in UK by the look of things.... Just saying...

Yes I agree; the PCB is Chinese but it's all up-front and honest as far as I can see. I hope the boards are populated by UK-sourced components (in the main). At least it comes with a UK-based 12 months warranty. Is it THAT much different to a new 'genuine' Quad made in China?

Thanks.

R

[agk]

All looks a bit gash to me. Quite an untidy layout inside.

[Arkless Electronics]

Yes I agree; the PCB is Chinese but it's all up-front and honest as far as I can see. I hope the boards are populated by UK-sourced components (in the main). At least it comes with a UK-based 12 months warranty. Is it THAT much different to a new 'genuine' Quad made in China?

Thanks.

R

I would guess the boards are bought in populated from China. It's still ridiculously cheap if they are being put together over here even and especially as the guy says he spends hours hand drilling and filing the casework! I know what that's like...

[Barry]

Chinese modules put together in UK by the look of things.... Just saying...

Without a doubt, and because of that I would be wary of Chinese cloned Quad 405 PCBs. There are some boards out there that have minor mistakes in the track layout. Caveat emptor!

[Bonky]

Ok, perhaps, I get the point, but better than a Chinese assembled modern Quad...without easy access to a UK warranty? Better than a UK Quad (say 306,495.606 etc) with old caps. transistors etc?
BW

R

[Barry]

You can pick up a Quad 405-2 on eBay for about £200. New caps would only cost, say, £50.

[Bonky]

Well, £250 -£265 perhaps, but + DADA and/or RedHill upgrades (say £250), not all components being tested, perhaps an inferior PS, and if, in the case of DADA, one needs to do the upgrades oneself, little in the way of warranty...


..an interesting view of value I think we would all agree....and then ...'"well, it all depends on what it sounds like"...


Has anyone on this forum got one?

BW

R

[Arkless Electronics]

The problem of fake semiconductors from China is real and present... and far more widespread than you may imagine. I would be pleasantly surprised if there were no fakes in the cheapest Chinese kit. Very definitely caveat emptor!