Audio T Verdict
The QUAD Platina Integrated is one of those amplifiers that makes a strong argument for putting almost everything you need into one properly engineered chassis. There is serious power on tap, but the specification goes far beyond 200 watts per channel: balanced analogue inputs, configurable MM/MC phono, an ES9038PRO DAC, high-resolution USB-C audio, HDMI ARC, proper pre-outs and a dedicated headphone amplifier are all part of the package.
The power supply is particularly substantial. A custom 630VA toroidal transformer feeds a dual-mono Class AB output stage, with 44,000µF of reservoir capacitance allocated to each channel and up to 20A of output current available. That makes the Platina relevant not simply to loudspeakers that need plenty of watts, but to systems where impedance, room size and dynamic demands require genuine current reserves.
There is similar attention on the source side. The ES9038PRO DAC supports PCM to 768kHz and DSD512, while vinyl users get selectable phono gain and separate MM or MC loading. Add HDMI ARC for the television, a beautifully clear 4.3-inch display and the ability to operate as either an integrated amplifier or dedicated preamplifier, and this is a remarkably complete centrepiece for a high-end system.
QUAD Platina Integrated Amplifier
The Platina Integrated is QUAD's flagship integrated amplifier, combining a high-current dual-mono Class AB power amplifier, analogue preamplifier, high-resolution ESS DAC, configurable MM/MC phono stage and extensive system connectivity within a single full-width chassis.
It was developed as the amplification centrepiece of the Platina Series, alongside the matching Platina Stream network player and Platina CDT CD transport.
- Dual-mono Class AB integrated amplifier
- 200W per channel into 8 ohms
- 310W per channel into 4 ohms
- 20A maximum output current
- +30dB power-amplifier gain
- 630VA custom toroidal transformer
- 44,000µF reservoir capacity per channel
- 88,000µF total main reservoir capacity
- ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC
- Separate precision master clocks
- PCM up to 768kHz via USB-C
- DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512
- Selectable PCM upsampling
- Five selectable DAC filters
- Two coaxial S/PDIF inputs
- Two optical S/PDIF inputs
- USB-C PC/Mac audio input
- HDMI ARC
- HDMI-CEC support
- Two RCA analogue line inputs
- Balanced stereo XLR input
- Configurable MM/MC phono input
- 46dB, 52dB and 60dB phono gain settings
- RCA preamplifier output
- Balanced XLR preamplifier output
- Optical and coaxial digital outputs
- Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
- 20 to 600-ohm headphone support
- Integrated and Pre operating modes
- 12V trigger input and output
- 4.3-inch 800 x 480 full-colour IPS display
- Roon Tested
- Black or Silver finish
Flagship QUAD Amplification
The Platina Integrated represents a significant step up in scale from QUAD's more compact integrated amplifiers.
Rather than designing the amplifier around a predetermined enclosure size and then fitting the largest power supply possible inside it, QUAD developed the Platina platform around the performance requirements of the amplification itself.
The resulting chassis measures 445mm wide and weighs 17.1kg, providing the physical space for a substantial transformer, independent channel power supplies, extensive regulation and effective thermal management.
Dual-Mono Class AB Architecture
The output stage uses a dual-mono Class AB design.
Dual-mono does not mean there are literally two completely separate mains-powered amplifiers hidden inside the enclosure. It refers to the deliberate separation and symmetry of the left and right amplifier channels, including dedicated reservoir capacity for each channel.
The aim is to reduce unwanted interaction between the two channels when one side of the amplifier is working particularly hard.
200W Per Channel Into 8 Ohms
QUAD rates the Platina Integrated at 200W per channel into 8 ohms with total harmonic distortion below 1%.
This is substantial output for an integrated amplifier and provides generous headroom for musical peaks, larger rooms and loudspeakers with lower sensitivity.
310W Per Channel Into 4 Ohms
Into 4 ohms, QUAD's detailed technical specification gives 310W per channel.
This increase as impedance falls is important because real loudspeakers do not present a fixed resistance to the amplifier. Their impedance changes considerably with frequency and may fall well below their nominal rating.
The 4-ohm output therefore tells us considerably more about the Platina's real-world power delivery than the 8-ohm wattage alone.
20A Maximum Output Current
QUAD specifies the maximum output current at 20 amps.
Current capability becomes particularly relevant when a loudspeaker presents a low impedance at certain frequencies, demanding considerably more current from the amplifier even if the listening level itself has not changed dramatically.
Why Wattage Isn't the Whole Story
A 200W amplifier is not automatically appropriate for every speaker simply because the number is large. Loudspeaker sensitivity, nominal and minimum impedance, room size, listening distance and required playback level all matter. The Platina's 310W/4-ohm rating and 20A capability give us much more useful information when assessing a difficult speaker load.
630VA Toroidal Transformer
The main amplifier power supply is centred around a custom 630VA high-power toroidal transformer.
The transformer has to provide the energy required not only for continuous playback but also for rapid dynamic changes when the music suddenly demands substantially greater output from one or both channels.
44,000µF Per Channel
Each power-amplifier channel is supported by 44,000µF of reservoir capacitance.
That gives the stereo amplifier a combined main reservoir capacity of 88,000µF.
The reservoir capacitors store energy from the power supply so that significant short-term current demands do not rely solely on what the transformer can provide instantaneously from the mains.
Cascaded Voltage Regulation
The analogue and digital sections use cascaded voltage regulation rather than simply sharing one broadly regulated supply.
This is important in an amplifier containing high-current power stages alongside sensitive analogue inputs, phono amplification, clocks and high-resolution digital processing.
Keeping those different electrical environments under control is fundamental to preventing power-supply noise from moving from one section into another.
Custom Wurth Elektronik Capacitors
QUAD worked with specialist component manufacturer Wurth Elektronik on bespoke capacitors developed specifically for the Platina Integrated.
This reflects the wider design philosophy behind the amplifier: components were selected and developed around the complete circuit implementation rather than relying solely on off-the-shelf headline specifications.
Extensive SMD Circuit Design
The Platina uses extensive surface-mount component integration to shorten electrical paths and improve physical circuit symmetry.
Shorter paths can reduce parasitic inductance and resistance, while compact current loops help minimise susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and oscillation.
This approach also allows components that should behave similarly in the left and right channels to be positioned consistently.
Extremely Low Power-Amplifier Distortion
At a substantial output of 100W into 8 ohms, QUAD specifies total harmonic distortion at less than 0.0008% at 1kHz.
Power-amplifier frequency response is specified at 20Hz to 20kHz within ±0.3dB.
A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 112dB.
Four-Channel Active Volume Control
The preamplifier uses a premium four-channel active analogue volume-control architecture.
The design allows finely stepped adjustment while preserving the requirements of balanced as well as single-ended signal paths.
Volume changes therefore take place through dedicated analogue circuitry rather than simply reducing digital resolution inside the DAC.
Two RCA Analogue Inputs
AUX1 and AUX2 provide two stereo RCA line-level inputs for conventional analogue sources.
These can accommodate equipment such as:
- CD players
- Network streamers
- External DACs
- Tuners
- Tape equipment
- External phono stages
Line-level input impedance is specified at 50kOhm.
Balanced XLR Analogue Input
A stereo pair of balanced XLR inputs is also provided.
Balanced connection can offer useful common-mode noise rejection, particularly with longer interconnect runs or source equipment designed around a genuinely balanced output stage.
QUAD specifies line sensitivity at 1.2Vrms and XLR sensitivity at 2.4Vrms under its published 0dB volume test conditions.
Independent Analogue Input Sensitivity
The Platina menu provides separate sensitivity offsets for AUX1, AUX2, XLR and Phono.
This is useful because different source components can have very different output levels. Matching those apparent levels makes switching between a CD player, streamer and turntable considerably less jarring.
QUAD's Most Advanced Phono Stage
The Platina Integrated contains a dedicated low-noise phono stage designed for both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.
The JFET-based input architecture is configurable from the amplifier's menu, avoiding the need to open the chassis or fit a separate cartridge board.
Three Selectable Phono Gain Settings
Available gain settings are:
This gives considerably greater flexibility than a phono input offering only one fixed MM gain and one fixed MC gain.
The most appropriate setting depends on the cartridge's actual output level and the gain structure of the complete system.
Moving Magnet Loading
With the phono input configured for MM operation, QUAD specifies:
- Input impedance: 50kOhm
- Input capacitance: 100pF
- Published sensitivity: 5mV at 46dB gain
- Signal-to-noise ratio: greater than 78dB A-weighted
Moving Coil Loading
With MC selected, QUAD specifies:
- Input resistance: 360Ohm
- Input capacitance: 200pF
- Published sensitivity: 1mV at 60dB gain
- Signal-to-noise ratio: greater than 70dB A-weighted
Check Your Moving Coil Cartridge
The Platina's MC load is specified at 360Ohm. Moving coil cartridges vary significantly in recommended loading and output voltage, so check your cartridge specification rather than assuming every MC design will be optimally matched simply because the amplifier has an MC setting.
Turntable Ground Connection
A dedicated grounding terminal is provided next to the analogue connections for turntables and tonearms using a separate signal-earth lead.
Correct grounding can be important in reducing unwanted hum from a vinyl system.
ESS ES9038PRO DAC
The digital section is built around the flagship-class ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit converter.
This is the eight-channel PRO implementation from ESS rather than the smaller two-channel ES9038Q2M used in the QUAD 3.
QUAD has built the complete DAC section around the converter rather than treating it as a digital input module added to the analogue amplifier.
Two Precision Master Clocks
The DAC uses separate high-precision clock references for the two fundamental digital-audio sample-rate families.
One clock handles signals based around 44.1kHz, while the other is optimised for the 48kHz family.
This avoids relying on one clock architecture to derive every possible incoming audio frequency.
USB-C Audio up to 768kHz
The rear USB Type-C audio input connects a compatible PC or Mac directly to the DAC.
PCM sample rates extend from 44.1kHz to a maximum of 768kHz.
Windows computers should use QUAD's appropriate USB audio driver where required.
There Are Two Different USB Functions
The USB Type-C connection is the high-resolution PC/Mac audio input. The separate rear USB update connection is for firmware servicing and should not be treated as a USB memory-stick music input.
DSD512
The computer-audio input also supports:
- DSD64
- DSD128
- DSD256
- DSD512
This makes the Platina capable of handling extremely high-resolution local files without requiring a separate USB DAC.
Two Coaxial Digital Inputs
Two RCA coaxial S/PDIF inputs are available for external digital sources.
These support sample rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
A purpose-designed 75-ohm digital coaxial cable is preferable to an ordinary analogue interconnect for these connections.
Two Optical Digital Inputs
Two TOSLINK optical inputs provide additional S/PDIF connectivity, again supporting compatible PCM signals from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Optical is particularly useful where electrical isolation between the source and amplifier is desirable.
Five DAC Filters
The ES9038PRO implementation provides five selectable reconstruction filters:
- Linear Slow - factory default
- Linear Fast
- Minimum Slow
- Minimum Fast
- Hybrid
These do not operate like conventional tone controls. They change the DAC's reconstruction behaviour, including roll-off and pre/post-ringing characteristics.
Linear Slow
The default filter uses linear-phase slow roll-off, combining symmetrical behaviour with less ringing than the faster linear-phase alternative.
Linear Fast
The conventional fast linear-phase option provides strong suppression outside the wanted audio band and a sharper transition characteristic.
Minimum Slow
This non-symmetrical option minimises pre-ringing while retaining a relatively gentle roll-off characteristic.
Minimum Fast
A faster minimum-phase design with minimal pre-ringing and a steeper frequency-domain transition.
Hybrid
A combination of linear- and minimum-phase characteristics intended to balance transient and frequency-domain behaviour.
Which DAC Filter Should I Use?
Start with Linear Slow because that is QUAD's default. Once you know the system well, experiment with familiar recordings. There is no single filter setting that must be preferred by every listener.
Selectable Upsampling
Compatible incoming PCM from S/PDIF or the PC USB input can be automatically upsampled to either 352.8kHz or 384kHz, depending on the original sampling family.
Upsampling can also be switched off from the setup menu.
Filters and Upsampling
QUAD's current manual specifies that the five user-selectable DAC filters are available when Upsampling is switched off. When Upsampling is enabled, that processing takes precedence over manual filter selection.
Adjustable DPLL
The S/PDIF digital inputs provide selectable Normal or Wide DPLL bandwidth.
DPLL stands for Digital Phase-Locked Loop and relates to how the DAC locks onto the timing of the incoming digital signal.
Normal is the recommended default for a well-behaved source. Wide increases the lock tolerance for sources with unusually high jitter or where the amplifier has difficulty maintaining a stable digital lock.
Roon Tested
The Platina Integrated is officially Roon Tested.
This means QUAD and Roon have tested interoperability when the amplifier is used with compatible computer-based Roon playback.
Roon Tested Is Not Roon Ready
The Platina Integrated is not itself a network-streaming Roon endpoint. It has no Ethernet or Wi-Fi network-player section. For native networked Roon Ready operation within the Platina range, use the matching Platina Stream.
No Built-In Network Streamer
Despite its extensive digital connectivity, the Platina Integrated does not contain a Wi-Fi or Ethernet music streamer.
This is intentional within the Platina range: network streaming is handled by the dedicated QUAD Platina Stream.
You can also connect another streamer by balanced XLR, RCA, optical, coaxial or USB depending on the source and which component's DAC you want to use.
No Bluetooth
Bluetooth is not specified for the Platina Integrated.
If wireless network or mobile-device playback is central to the system, the matching Platina Stream or another suitable streamer should be added rather than assuming Bluetooth is built into the amplifier.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
The dedicated HDMI ARC input allows a compatible television to send stereo audio back to the Platina through a single HDMI cable.
This makes it possible to use the main Hi-Fi loudspeakers for television, films and other screen-based content without adding an AV receiver to a two-channel system.
ARC, Not eARC
QUAD specifies HDMI ARC for the Platina Integrated. It does not advertise eARC, so Audio T does not describe the connection as eARC compatible.
Set the Television to Stereo PCM
QUAD instructs users to configure the television's ARC output as PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel.
The Platina is a two-channel Hi-Fi amplifier, not a Dolby or DTS multichannel AV decoder.
HDMI-CEC
HDMI-CEC can be enabled through the setup menu when used with a compatible television.
The television must also have CEC and ARC enabled for the intended system-control functions to operate.
Optical and Coaxial Digital Outputs
Alongside its digital inputs, the Platina provides one coaxial and one optical S/PDIF output.
These can be used with compatible external digital equipment such as a DAC or signal processor.
RCA Preamplifier Output
A stereo RCA analogue output allows the Platina to be incorporated into more complex systems.
Possible uses include feeding an external power amplifier, suitable subwoofer system or other analogue equipment.
Balanced XLR Preamplifier Output
A balanced stereo XLR output is provided alongside RCA.
This allows the Platina to retain balanced connectivity when partnered with a compatible external power amplifier or other suitably designed equipment.
Published analogue output impedance is 120Ohm.
Integrated or Pre Mode
The setup menu provides two operating modes:
Integrated mode uses the complete amplifier, including the internal 200W-per-channel power stage.
In Pre mode, the loudspeaker outputs are disabled so the Platina can operate as a source-control, DAC and preamplifier front end for external power amplification.
Adjustable or Fixed Pre-Out
When operating in Pre mode, the preamplifier output can be configured as:
- Adjustable - the Platina volume control sets output level
- Fixed - the pre-out is held at maximum output level
Use Fixed Output With Care
Fixed should only be used when the connected equipment provides its own safe level control. Do not use a fixed full-level output directly into a power amplifier without another means of controlling volume.
Dedicated Current-Feedback Headphone Amplifier
Headphones are driven by a separate current-feedback amplifier rather than being tapped directly from the main loudspeaker output stage.
QUAD specifies compatibility with headphone impedances from 20 to 600 ohms.
Output impedance is a low 2.35 ohms, while THD is below 0.01% at 1kHz and 50mW.
Speaker Outputs Mute With Headphones
Connecting headphones to the front-mounted 6.3mm socket disables the loudspeaker outputs.
This means private listening does not require manually disconnecting or switching off the loudspeakers.
12V Trigger Input and Output
The Platina provides both a 12V trigger input and trigger output.
The output can control compatible components such as the Platina Stream, Platina CDT or suitable third-party equipment.
The trigger input allows another compatible source or control component to manage the amplifier's standby state.
Trigger operation itself can be enabled or disabled through the setup menu.
4.3-Inch Full-Colour IPS Display
The front panel uses a 4.3-inch 800 x 480 full-view IPS display.
Rather than simply showing a source name and volume number, QUAD uses the screen as the centre of the complete operating interface, providing access to input configuration, phono setup, digital processing, display options, system modes and other settings.
Multiple Display Modes
The display can show several different presentations:
- Home - standard source and operating information
- VU Digital - digital-style level meters
- VU Analogue - traditional needle-style VU meters
- QUAD - classic logo display
- QUAD Platina - Platina-branded display
Adjustable Display Behaviour
Brightness can be adjusted through the menu and the display can be configured to revert from alternative display screens after a chosen period.
Interface animation can also be enabled or disabled.
Power-On Volume Limit
The Platina includes a configurable power-on volume limit.
When the amplifier leaves standby, it restores either the previous listening level or the configured power-on limit, whichever is lower.
This helps prevent a system previously used at a very high level from unexpectedly restarting at that same volume.
Auto Standby
The amplifier provides three automatic standby settings:
- 20 minutes
- 60 minutes
- Never
The default is 20 minutes.
Firmware Updates
Firmware can be updated through the dedicated rear USB update connection using official QUAD update files.
The current system and PC USB firmware versions can also be checked through the Info menu.
One Remote for the Platina Series
The supplied handset can control the Platina Integrated as well as the matching Platina CDT and Platina Stream.
A device-selection control switches the handset between Integrated, CDT and Stream operation, reducing the need for three separate remotes in a complete Platina system.
Platina Integrated and Platina Stream
The QUAD Platina Stream is the natural network source for the amplifier.
It adds dedicated Ethernet and Wi-Fi streaming, native service integration and Roon Ready network operation while retaining the same Platina design language.
The Integrated already contains an ES9038PRO DAC, so the Stream can be integrated using either analogue or digital connection depending on how you want the two components configured.
Platina Integrated or QUAD 3?
Both provide a modern mixture of analogue and digital connectivity, but they operate at very different performance and system levels.
QUAD 3
- 65W per channel into 8 ohms
- 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- ESS ES9038Q2M DAC
- USB PCM to 768kHz
- DSD512
- MM phono stage
- Bluetooth aptX HD
- HDMI ARC
- Compact 300mm chassis
Platina Integrated
- 200W per channel into 8 ohms
- 310W per channel into 4 ohms
- 20A maximum current
- ESS ES9038PRO DAC
- USB PCM to 768kHz
- DSD512
- Configurable MM/MC phono
- Balanced XLR input and output
- HDMI ARC
- Integrated/Pre operating modes
The QUAD 3 is an excellent compact all-rounder. The Platina is aimed at substantially more demanding loudspeakers and systems, with far greater power and current, balanced analogue architecture, MC cartridge support and more extensive system configuration.
Platina Integrated or QUAD 33/303?
QUAD 33 and 303
- Separate analogue pre/power system
- MM and MC phono
- No internal DAC
- 50W per channel into 8 ohms
- 70W per channel into 4 ohms
- Second-303 bridged upgrade route
- Classic compact styling
Platina Integrated
- Single-chassis integrated amplifier
- MM and MC phono
- ES9038PRO DAC
- 200W per channel into 8 ohms
- 310W per channel into 4 ohms
- 20A maximum output current
- HDMI ARC and high-resolution USB
Can It Drive QUAD Electrostatics?
The Platina Integrated has substantially more voltage and current capability than is required by many loudspeakers, which is normally an advantage with difficult dynamic designs.
QUAD electrostatic loudspeakers have different amplifier requirements, however, and should be matched according to the specific ESL model's published voltage and power guidance rather than simply choosing the most powerful amplifier available.
Audio T can check suitability for a particular QUAD ESL installation before purchase.
Who Is the Platina Integrated For?
The Platina Integrated is particularly compelling if you want:
- One high-performance amplifier rather than separate pre/power boxes
- Substantial power for demanding loudspeakers
- A high-current amplifier for low-impedance speaker loads
- A flagship DAC built into the amplifier
- High-resolution USB computer audio
- MM and MC turntable compatibility
- Balanced XLR analogue sources
- HDMI ARC television integration
- A dedicated headphone amplifier
- The option to move to external power amplification later
- A matching platform for Platina Stream and Platina CDT
Key Features
- QUAD Platina Integrated
- Flagship integrated amplifier
- Dual-mono Class AB architecture
- 200W per channel into 8 ohms
- 310W per channel into 4 ohms
- 20A maximum output current
- +30dB power-amplifier gain
- 630VA toroidal transformer
- 44,000µF reservoir capacity per channel
- 88,000µF total reservoir capacity
- Bespoke Wurth Elektronik capacitors
- Extensive SMD circuit architecture
- Four-channel active analogue volume control
- ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC
- Dual precision master clocks
- USB-C computer audio
- PCM to 768kHz
- DSD64 support
- DSD128 support
- DSD256 support
- DSD512 support
- Selectable 352.8/384kHz upsampling
- Five DAC filters
- Normal/Wide DPLL
- Two optical digital inputs
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- HDMI ARC
- HDMI-CEC
- Two RCA line inputs
- Balanced stereo XLR input
- Dedicated MM/MC phono stage
- 46/52/60dB phono gain
- 50kOhm/100pF MM loading
- 360Ohm/200pF MC loading
- Independent analogue input sensitivity
- RCA pre-out
- Balanced XLR pre-out
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- Integrated and Pre modes
- Adjustable/Fixed pre-out in Pre mode
- Current-feedback headphone amplifier
- 20 to 600-ohm headphone support
- 2.35-ohm headphone output impedance
- 12V trigger input
- 12V trigger output
- 4.3-inch IPS display
- 800 x 480 display resolution
- Multiple VU display modes
- Power-on volume limiting
- 20/60-minute or disabled auto standby
- Roon Tested
- Black or Silver finish
- 17.1kg net weight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the QUAD Platina Integrated current?
Yes. It is the flagship model in QUAD's current integrated-amplifier range.
How powerful is the Platina Integrated?
QUAD specifies 200W per channel into 8 ohms and 310W per channel into 4 ohms, with both ratings measured at less than 1% THD.
Why do some descriptions say 300W into 4 ohms?
QUAD's overview rounds the figure to 300W, while its detailed current technical specification gives 310W per channel into 4 ohms. Audio T uses the detailed specification figure.
How much current can it deliver?
QUAD specifies a maximum output current of 20A.
What is the power-amplifier gain?
+30dB.
What transformer does it use?
A custom 630VA high-power toroidal transformer.
How much reservoir capacitance does it have?
44,000µF per channel, or 88,000µF across the two main amplifier channels.
Is it a dual-mono amplifier?
Yes. QUAD describes the power-amplifier architecture as dual-mono Class AB.
What is the power-amplifier THD?
Less than 0.0008% at 1kHz and 100W into 8 ohms under QUAD's published test conditions.
What DAC does it use?
The ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC.
Is that the same DAC as the QUAD 3?
No. The QUAD 3 uses the ES9038Q2M, while the Platina Integrated uses the flagship eight-channel ES9038PRO implementation.
What is the maximum USB PCM resolution?
PCM up to 768kHz through the USB Type-C PC/Mac audio input.
Does it support DSD?
Yes. DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512 are supported through PC USB.
Does it have USB-C?
Yes. Unlike many Hi-Fi DACs using USB-B, the Platina Integrated uses a USB Type-C socket for PC/Mac audio.
Can I play music from a USB memory stick?
No USB-memory music-player function is documented for the amplifier. The USB-C connection is for PC/Mac audio and the separate update port is for firmware maintenance.
Does it have optical inputs?
Yes. Two optical TOSLINK inputs are provided.
Does it have coaxial digital inputs?
Yes. Two coaxial RCA S/PDIF inputs are provided.
What is the maximum optical or coaxial resolution?
192kHz PCM.
Does it upsample digital audio?
Yes. Compatible PCM from S/PDIF or PC USB can be upsampled to 352.8kHz or 384kHz. Upsampling can also be disabled.
What DAC filters are available?
Linear Slow, Linear Fast, Minimum Slow, Minimum Fast and Hybrid. Linear Slow is the default.
Can I use the filters while upsampling is switched on?
QUAD's current manual states that manual DAC filter selection is available when Upsampling is switched off.
What is DPLL?
The Digital Phase-Locked Loop setting adjusts how tolerant the DAC is of timing instability on an incoming S/PDIF signal. Normal is the recommended default; Wide is intended for problematic high-jitter sources.
Is the Platina Integrated a streamer?
No. It has extensive digital inputs but no built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi network-player platform.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No Bluetooth connection is specified.
What is the matching streamer?
The QUAD Platina Stream is the dedicated network player designed for the Platina Series.
Is the Platina Integrated Roon Ready?
No. It is Roon Tested, which relates to verified interoperability with Roon when connected to a compatible computer. The Platina Stream is the networked Roon Ready product in the range.
Does it have HDMI?
Yes. One HDMI ARC input is provided.
Does it have eARC?
QUAD specifies ARC rather than eARC.
What TV audio setting should I use?
QUAD instructs users to configure the television for PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel output.
Does it support HDMI-CEC?
Yes. CEC can be enabled through the amplifier menu when used with a compatible television.
How many analogue line inputs are there?
Two stereo RCA line inputs plus one stereo balanced XLR input.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. The dedicated phono stage can be configured for Moving Magnet or Moving Coil cartridges.
What phono gains are available?
46dB, 52dB and 60dB.
What is the MM loading?
50kOhm and 100pF.
What is the MC loading?
360Ohm and 200pF.
What is the published MM sensitivity?
5mV at the 46dB gain setting under QUAD's specified test condition.
What is the published MC sensitivity?
1mV at the 60dB gain setting under QUAD's specified test condition.
Can every MC cartridge be used optimally?
Not necessarily. Check the cartridge's output voltage and recommended load against the Platina's available gain and 360Ohm MC loading.
Can I adjust the level of different analogue sources?
Yes. The menu provides independent input-sensitivity offsets for AUX1, AUX2, XLR and Phono.
Does it have preamp outputs?
Yes. Stereo RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs are provided.
Can I add an external power amplifier?
Yes. The Platina can operate in Pre mode, which disables its internal loudspeaker outputs and allows the analogue pre-outs to feed external power amplification.
Can the pre-out be fixed or variable?
In Pre mode it can be configured as Adjustable or Fixed.
Can I add a subwoofer?
QUAD specifically identifies the analogue outputs as suitable for wider system integration including compatible subwoofers. The final connection method depends on the subwoofer's own inputs and the required system configuration.
Does it have digital outputs?
Yes. One optical and one coaxial digital output are provided.
Does it have a headphone amplifier?
Yes. A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier is built in.
Which headphones can it drive?
QUAD specifies a load range from 20 to 600 ohms.
What is the headphone output impedance?
2.35 ohms.
What is the headphone THD?
Less than 0.01% at 1kHz and 50mW.
What happens to the speakers when headphones are connected?
The loudspeaker outputs are muted.
Does it have 12V triggers?
Yes. One 12V trigger input and one trigger output are provided.
What size is the display?
4.3 inches with an 800 x 480 full-view IPS panel.
What display modes are available?
Home, VU Digital, VU Analogue, QUAD and QUAD Platina.
Does it have auto standby?
Yes. The options are 20 minutes, 60 minutes and Never. Twenty minutes is the default.
Can I set a safe switch-on volume?
Yes. The Power On Limit prevents the amplifier restarting above the user-selected threshold.
Can one remote operate the whole Platina system?
Yes. The supplied remote can switch between the Platina Integrated, Platina CDT and Platina Stream.
How large is the Platina Integrated?
445mm wide, 134.5mm high and 348mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
17.1kg net.
What finishes are available?
Black and Silver.
Related QUAD Products
Why Buy the QUAD Platina Integrated From Audio T?
The Platina's specification makes it extremely flexible, but getting the best from an amplifier at this level still depends on the complete system. Speaker sensitivity and impedance, cartridge output and loading, source levels, RCA or balanced connection and the choice between the internal power amplifier and an external power stage all need to be considered together.
Audio T can demonstrate the Platina with appropriately revealing loudspeakers, check your MM or MC cartridge against the built-in phono stage and help configure the DAC, HDMI, USB, preamplifier and trigger functions around the system you actually own.
- In-store demonstrations
- Loudspeaker matching
- Speaker sensitivity and impedance advice
- High-current amplifier matching
- MM cartridge matching
- MC gain and loading checks
- Turntable setup guidance
- Balanced XLR versus RCA advice
- USB-C computer audio setup
- DAC filter comparison
- Upsampling configuration
- HDMI ARC and television setup
- External streamer integration
- Platina Stream demonstrations
- External power-amplifier integration
- Subwoofer integration
- Headphone matching
- 12V trigger setup
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss how the QUAD Platina Integrated could work with your loudspeakers, turntable and digital sources.