Audio T Verdict
The QUAD Platina Stream is much more than a box for getting Qobuz onto your Hi-Fi. It is a serious digital source in its own right, combining a sophisticated network platform with the flagship ESS ES9038PRO DAC, balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs, high-resolution USB playback and the option to operate at either fixed or variable output level.
It is also refreshingly flexible about how you actually want to stream. QUAD's own Platina app brings online services, network libraries and USB storage together in one interface, but you can equally use Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Roon, UPnP or Plex. You are not forced to abandon the software you already like simply because you have changed the hardware.
Partner it with the Platina Integrated for the obvious matching flagship system, use its balanced analogue output with another amplifier, connect it directly to a suitable power amp using its adjustable output, or treat it purely as a digital transport feeding an external DAC. That ability to change roles without replacing the streamer makes the Platina Stream particularly appealing as a long-term digital source.
QUAD Platina Stream Network Player
The QUAD Platina Stream is the flagship network player in the Platina Series, designed to handle online streaming services, high-resolution network libraries, USB storage and direct computer audio from a single purpose-built source component.
Its network architecture combines Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi with a Quad Arm Cortex-A53 multi-core processor, while digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by the eight-channel ESS ES9038PRO DAC.
- Flagship QUAD network player
- ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC
- Quad Arm Cortex-A53 multi-core processor
- 1.8GHz processing per core
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Dual-band 2.4GHz / 5GHz Wi-Fi
- IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac wireless support
- QUAD Platina iOS and Android app
- Qobuz Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Spotify Connect
- AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- UPnP / OpenHome
- Plex
- TuneIn Radio
- Gapless playback
- NAS and network-library playback
- USB storage playback
- USB flash drive and USB hard-disk support
- PC USB-B audio input
- PCM up to 768kHz
- Native DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512
- Selectable 352.8kHz / 384kHz upsampling
- Five selectable DAC filters
- Stereo RCA analogue output
- Stereo balanced XLR analogue output
- Fixed or adjustable analogue output
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- 12V trigger input and output
- 4.3-inch full-colour IPS display
- 800 x 480 display resolution
- Black or Silver finish
Streaming Without Being Locked Into One App
One of the strongest features of the Platina Stream is that QUAD gives you several different ways to control it.
You can use:
- The dedicated QUAD Platina app
- Qobuz Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Spotify Connect
- AirPlay 2
- Roon
- UPnP / OpenHome control software
- Plex
- The supplied physical remote control
- The front-panel controls
That matters because a network player can be technically excellent but frustrating to live with if it forces every customer into one proprietary interface.
The QUAD Platina App
The dedicated QUAD Platina app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
It brings cloud streaming services, network shares and attached USB libraries together in a unified interface.
The app can index a large music collection in the background and allow searches using information including:
- Track title
- Artist or performer
- Composer
- Genre
- Label
- Year
Rather than treating an online service and a locally stored library as completely separate worlds, the app is designed to make a large digital collection easier to navigate from one place.
Playlists and Library Organisation
The Platina app allows music to be added to the current playback queue or organised into saved playlists.
QUAD also provides functions for organising larger libraries, including folders and collections that can help bring together multi-disc sets, remasters or themed selections.
This is particularly useful if you have spent years building a local music library alongside your streaming subscriptions.
Qobuz Connect
Qobuz Connect allows the Platina Stream to appear as a playback device directly within the Qobuz app.
You therefore retain Qobuz's own browsing, discovery and library interface while the network player handles audio playback.
This is separate from accessing Qobuz through the QUAD Platina app, so you can choose the interface you prefer.
TIDAL Connect
TIDAL Connect works in the same broad way, allowing the Platina Stream to be selected from within the official TIDAL application.
The controlling phone or tablet therefore acts primarily as the interface rather than having to send the actual music over a short-range Bluetooth connection.
Spotify Connect
Spotify Connect is supported natively.
The Platina Stream can be selected from within the Spotify app on a compatible phone, tablet or computer, making it particularly straightforward for households where Spotify is already used extensively.
AirPlay 2
AirPlay 2 support gives Apple users another direct route into the system from compatible iPhone, iPad and Mac devices.
This can be useful for applications and audio sources that do not have their own dedicated Connect implementation.
Roon Ready
The Platina Stream is certified Roon Ready.
This means Roon's own network-streaming technology is built into the product and the Stream can appear directly as an audio endpoint within a Roon system over Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
Roon Ready vs Roon Tested
The distinction matters. The Platina Stream is Roon Ready, meaning it contains Roon network-streaming technology. The matching Platina Integrated is Roon Tested, meaning Roon has tested it as a compatible directly connected audio device, but it is not itself a network streamer.
Plex Support
Plex support provides another route to locally stored digital music and media libraries.
If you already use Plex to organise music on a computer or server, the Platina Stream can form part of that ecosystem rather than requiring a completely separate library structure.
UPnP and OpenHome
The network platform supports UPnP AV with OpenHome audio-streaming extensions.
This allows the Platina Stream to work with compatible network servers and third-party control software rather than restricting network-library access exclusively to QUAD's own application.
TuneIn Internet Radio
TuneIn support provides access to compatible internet-radio services through the network platform.
As with other online services, station availability is controlled by the third-party platform and may change independently of QUAD.
Gapless Playback
Gapless playback is supported.
This is particularly important for live albums, classical performances, concept albums and DJ mixes where one track is intended to continue directly into the next without an artificial pause.
Gigabit Ethernet
The rear Ethernet connection supports 10/100/1000 Base-T with auto-negotiation.
For high-resolution network libraries and systems where an Ethernet cable can conveniently reach the Hi-Fi, QUAD recommends wired network connection for optimum stability.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
Both are fully supported. Wi-Fi is convenient and can work extremely well with a strong network, but a wired Ethernet connection removes wireless signal strength and local radio interference from the equation. If the router or network switch is nearby, Ethernet is our preferred starting point for a fixed high-resolution Hi-Fi installation.
Dual-Band Wi-Fi
Wireless connectivity supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz network bands using IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
This allows the player to work with a wide variety of modern home-network equipment.
Wi-Fi Signal Monitoring
The system information menu can display the current Wi-Fi RSSI value, providing a useful indication of wireless reception quality.
This is valuable when diagnosing intermittent streaming because it allows weak Wi-Fi reception to be identified rather than automatically assuming the streamer or music service is at fault.
If your signal is marginal, Audio T can help decide whether relocating the router, using wired Ethernet or improving the home network is the most sensible solution.
WPS and App-Based Wi-Fi Setup
The Platina Stream can be connected wirelessly either through compatible WPS setup or using its access-point setup mode and the QUAD app.
Once network configuration is complete, the controlling phone or tablet should remain connected to the same local network for full app functionality.
Quad Arm Cortex-A53 Processing
The streaming platform is driven by a Quad Arm Cortex-A53 multi-core processor running at 1.8GHz per core.
The processor handles tasks including:
- Network streaming
- Library indexing
- Album artwork
- App communication
- Playback management
- Local USB libraries
This processing platform is separate from the dedicated audio-conversion circuitry.
ESS ES9038PRO DAC
The analogue output stage is centred around the flagship-class ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC.
This is the same DAC family used by the matching Platina Integrated, allowing the two products to share a closely related digital engineering platform.
The eight-channel PRO converter is implemented alongside precision clocking and dedicated analogue output circuitry rather than functioning as a generic streaming-module DAC.
PCM up to 768kHz
The Platina Stream supports PCM sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 768kHz.
QUAD specifically states that the streaming architecture supports fixed-point operation at 705.6kHz and 768kHz.
This is substantially beyond conventional CD's 44.1kHz sampling rate.
Native DSD512
The platform supports native Direct Stream Digital at:
- DSD64
- DSD128
- DSD256
- DSD512
QUAD also lists DSF, DSDIFF and DoP within its supported local-file architecture.
High-Resolution PC USB
A dedicated rear USB-B PC input allows a compatible Mac or Windows computer to connect directly.
This gives the Platina Stream a second role as a conventional USB DAC, independently of its Ethernet or Wi-Fi streaming platform.
Windows users should install the current QUAD USB driver where required.
Network Streaming or PC USB?
Network streaming is generally the neater option because the computer or phone does not need to remain physically connected to the Hi-Fi. PC USB remains useful for specialist playback software, a computer-based music system or files you specifically want to send directly from a Mac or PC.
USB Storage Music Server
The rear USB storage connection can play music directly from compatible flash drives and USB hard disks.
The attached drive becomes available through the Platina app as a local USB music server, allowing its contents to be browsed without requiring a separate NAS.
USB Drive Compatibility
QUAD specifies support for single-partition drives formatted as:
The current manual states that drives up to 4TB have been formally tested.
Some larger drives may also operate, but we would treat 4TB as the manufacturer-verified capacity rather than promising compatibility beyond the tested specification.
Local Music File Support
QUAD's current specification includes support for:
- FLAC
- Apple Lossless / ALAC
- WAV
- AIFF
- MP3
- DSF
- DSDIFF / DFF
- DoP
The current operating manual also lists AAC and MQA files for local USB and network-library playback.
About MQA
QUAD's current Platina Stream manual lists MQA among supported local-file types. We therefore describe it as a supported file type, but do not make a separate claim about a particular MQA unfolding or rendering stage where QUAD does not publish one.
Network Attached Storage
A compatible NAS or network music server on the same home network can be browsed and controlled from the Platina system.
This is an excellent option for customers who have ripped large CD collections or purchased high-resolution downloads and want them permanently available without plugging in a USB drive each time.
Unified Local and Cloud Libraries
The Platina app is designed so that USB storage, network shares and streaming services do not have to feel like completely unrelated sources.
Search and library functions make it easier to move between locally owned music and cloud-based services while keeping the interface consistent.
Selectable Upsampling
The Platina Stream can automatically upsample compatible incoming digital audio to either 352.8kHz or 384kHz, according to the source sample-rate family.
Upsampling can also be turned off entirely through the setup menu.
Five Digital Filters
With upsampling switched off, the ES9038PRO DAC provides five selectable reconstruction filters:
- Linear Slow - factory default
- Linear Fast
- Minimum Slow
- Minimum Fast
- Hybrid
These change the reconstruction behaviour of the DAC rather than acting like conventional bass or treble controls.
Linear Slow
The default option uses a slower linear-phase roll-off with less ringing than the faster linear filter.
Linear Fast
A steeper conventional linear-phase filter designed for strong rejection outside the wanted audio band.
Minimum Slow
A minimum-phase slow-roll-off option designed to reduce pre-ringing while retaining a gentler frequency transition.
Minimum Fast
A steeper minimum-phase option with minimal pre-ringing.
Hybrid
A combined approach using characteristics of linear- and minimum-phase filtering.
Filters or Upsampling?
The two functions are linked. QUAD specifies that manual DAC-filter selection is available when Upsampling is switched Off. If you want to compare the five filters, disable upsampling first.
Balanced XLR Analogue Output
A stereo pair of balanced XLR outputs allows the Stream to feed compatible amplifiers and preamplifiers using a balanced analogue connection.
QUAD specifies an A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio greater than 120dB through the XLR output.
This makes the balanced connection an obvious option when partnering the Stream with equipment such as the Platina Integrated.
RCA Analogue Output
A conventional stereo RCA output is also provided for amplifiers without balanced inputs.
QUAD specifies an A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio greater than 116dB through RCA.
Analogue output impedance is specified at 120Ohm.
Variable Analogue Output
The analogue output can operate at adjustable level.
The front volume control and remote then control the RCA and XLR analogue signal, allowing the Platina Stream to connect directly to a suitable power amplifier.
The volume range is -78dB to 0dB.
Direct-to-Power-Amp Setup Requires Adjustable Output
If the Platina Stream is connected directly to a power amplifier, keep the analogue output in Adjustable mode so the Stream itself controls listening volume. Always begin at a low level when commissioning the system.
Fixed Analogue Output
If you are connecting the Platina Stream to an integrated amplifier or conventional preamplifier, the analogue outputs can instead be set to Fixed.
In this mode the Stream operates as a conventional line-level source and the partnering amplifier controls volume.
Fixed Output
- For an integrated amplifier or preamplifier
- Stream operates as a conventional source
- Partnering amplifier controls volume
- Analogue output held at maximum
Adjustable Output
- For direct connection to a power amplifier
- Stream controls listening volume
- -78dB to 0dB range
- Power-on volume limiting available
2.05Vrms Published Analogue Output
QUAD publishes a variable DAC output-voltage range of 0 to 2.05Vrms.
The manufacturer does not publish separate maximum-voltage figures for the RCA and XLR connections in its current specification, so Audio T does not infer an additional balanced-output figure.
Low Analogue Distortion
QUAD specifies total harmonic distortion below 0.001% at 1kHz and 2.05Vrms.
Analogue frequency response is specified within ±0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz.
Use It as a Digital Transport
If you already own a DAC that you particularly want to retain, the Platina Stream does not force you to use its ES9038PRO analogue stage.
Digital outputs include:
- Coaxial S/PDIF
- Optical TOSLINK
Maximum published digital-output resolution is 24-bit/192kHz.
Important Digital-Output Behaviour
The digital outputs have two operating limitations that are worth understanding.
- If Upsampling is On, the optical and coaxial digital outputs are disabled.
- With Upsampling Off, the digital outputs are active only for signals at 192kHz or below.
This is because the Stream's upsampled operating rates begin at 352.8kHz, beyond the published S/PDIF output limit.
Using an External DAC?
Set Upsampling to Off if you want to use the coaxial or optical digital output. High-resolution files above 192kHz cannot be passed through those S/PDIF outputs at their original sample rate.
Digital Output Specification
QUAD specifies:
- Output level: 500 ±50mV peak-to-peak
- Output impedance: 75Ohm
- Maximum sample rate: 192kHz / 24-bit
- Frequency response: -0.01dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, referenced to 1kHz
Natural Partner for Platina Integrated
The QUAD Platina Integrated Amplifier was developed alongside the Stream.
The pairing gives you:
- Dedicated network streaming
- Qobuz, TIDAL and Spotify Connect
- Roon Ready playback
- USB and network libraries
- 200W-per-channel amplification
- MM/MC phono
- HDMI ARC
- Balanced system connectivity
The Stream can feed the Integrated through balanced XLR or RCA analogue connection, or by digital connection if you prefer the Integrated to perform digital-to-analogue conversion.
Two ES9038PRO DACs in a Platina System?
Both the Platina Stream and Platina Integrated contain their own ES9038PRO DAC implementations.
That is not redundant: it gives you a genuine choice over where conversion happens.
Analogue Connection
- Stream's ES9038PRO performs conversion
- Use RCA or balanced XLR
- Stream output normally set Fixed
- Integrated controls volume
Digital Connection
- Integrated's ES9038PRO performs conversion
- Use optical or coaxial S/PDIF
- Stream Upsampling must be Off
- Limited to S/PDIF-compatible rates up to 192kHz
There is no reason to assume one route must always be superior. This is exactly the sort of comparison worth making in a demonstration.
Use It With Another Integrated Amplifier
You do not need the matching Platina Integrated.
Set the output to Fixed and connect the RCA or XLR analogue outputs to a suitable line input on your existing amplifier.
The Platina Stream then behaves as a conventional premium network source while your amplifier retains control of listening level.
Use It Directly With a Power Amplifier
Set the analogue output to Adjustable and the Stream can act as the digital source and volume controller for a suitable stereo or pair of mono power amplifiers.
This can create a particularly simple high-performance streaming system with very few boxes.
Input sensitivity and impedance should still be checked before pairing it with unfamiliar power amplification.
Balance Adjustment
The setup menu allows left/right channel balance to be adjusted for the analogue output.
This can be useful where the listening position is not perfectly centred or room acoustics cause one side of the system to appear slightly more prominent.
Power-On Volume Limit
When using Adjustable output, the Platina Stream provides a configurable power-on volume limit.
Available settings include:
- -40dB
- -35dB
- -30dB
- -25dB
- -20dB
- -15dB
- Off
When leaving standby, the Stream uses either the previous volume setting or the configured limit, whichever is lower.
This is particularly useful when the Stream is connected directly to a power amplifier.
Safe Standby Volume Behaviour
The normal volume range extends from -78dB to 0dB, with -30dB as the factory default.
If the previous setting before standby was louder than -20dB, the unit normally restarts at -20dB unless a different Power On Limit has been configured.
Digital Output Is Always Fixed
The front-panel volume adjustment applies only to the analogue RCA and XLR outputs.
The optical and coaxial digital outputs remain at fixed digital level.
This is particularly important to understand when connecting an external DAC or digital amplifier.
12V Trigger Input and Output
The Platina Stream includes a 12V trigger input and a link/output connection.
This allows compatible Platina or third-party equipment to coordinate standby operation.
The trigger output can be used with components including the Platina Integrated and Platina CDT.
Trigger Link Behaviour
The current operating manual specifies that the Stream's trigger link output becomes active when a trigger input is connected.
This allows the trigger command to be passed through the system rather than requiring every component to be independently controlled.
4.3-Inch IPS Display
The front fascia is dominated by a 4.3-inch full-colour IPS display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels.
The display can show album artwork, track information, sample rate, playback progress, network status and system settings.
Multiple Display Modes
Available presentations include:
- Home
- Artwork A
- Artwork B
- VU Digital
- VU Analogue
- QUAD logo
- QUAD Platina logo
- Display Off
The two artwork modes alter the balance between album art and accompanying track information.
Display Off Mode
If you prefer a completely dark front panel during listening, the display can be switched off.
Operating a control temporarily wakes the screen, after which it can return automatically to the selected dark state.
Display Timeout and Brightness
Display brightness is adjustable, while timeout options include:
- 5 seconds
- 10 seconds
- 15 seconds
- 30 seconds
Interface animation can also be switched on or off.
20-Minute, 60-Minute or Disabled Auto Standby
The Stream provides three automatic-standby options:
- 20 minutes
- 60 minutes
- Never
The factory default is 20 minutes.
Automatic Network Firmware Updates
The network section periodically checks for over-the-air firmware updates.
When new software becomes available, the player can prompt the user before installation.
Separate MCU updates can also be installed using official QUAD firmware files.
One Remote for the Platina System
The supplied Platina remote can control the Stream, Platina Integrated and Platina CDT.
A device selector changes the handset between:
This keeps a complete three-box Platina system considerably tidier in daily use.
Platina Stream or Artera Solus Play?
Both provide QUAD network streaming, but they are fundamentally different types of product.
Artera Solus Play
- All-in-one music system
- Network streaming
- CD player
- DAC
- 75W-per-channel amplifier
- Drives passive speakers directly
- DTS Play-Fi platform
Platina Stream
- Dedicated flagship network source
- No power amplifier
- No CD mechanism
- ES9038PRO DAC
- Qobuz/TIDAL/Spotify Connect
- Roon Ready
- AirPlay 2
- Fixed or variable analogue output
Who Is the Platina Stream For?
The Platina Stream makes particular sense if you want:
- A flagship dedicated network source
- Qobuz Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Spotify Connect
- Roon Ready playback
- AirPlay 2
- A large local NAS music collection
- USB hard-disk playback
- High-resolution PCM and DSD
- A balanced analogue source for a high-end amplifier
- A digital transport for an existing DAC
- Direct connection to a power amplifier
- A matching source for the Platina Integrated
Key Features
- QUAD Platina Stream
- Flagship network player
- ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC
- Quad Arm Cortex-A53 processor
- 1.8GHz processing per core
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Dual-band 2.4/5GHz Wi-Fi
- IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
- QUAD Platina iOS/Android app
- Qobuz Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Spotify Connect
- AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- UPnP/OpenHome
- Plex
- TuneIn Radio
- Gapless playback
- Network/NAS playback
- USB storage playback
- PC USB-B input
- PCM up to 768kHz
- Native DSD64
- Native DSD128
- Native DSD256
- Native DSD512
- Selectable 352.8/384kHz upsampling
- Five selectable DAC filters
- Linear Slow filter
- Linear Fast filter
- Minimum Slow filter
- Minimum Fast filter
- Hybrid filter
- Balanced stereo XLR output
- Stereo RCA output
- Adjustable analogue output
- Fixed analogue output
- -78dB to 0dB volume range
- Power-on volume limiting
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- 24-bit/192kHz maximum S/PDIF output
- 12V trigger input
- 12V trigger link/output
- 4.3-inch IPS display
- 800 x 480 display resolution
- Artwork display modes
- Digital and analogue VU displays
- Black or Silver finish
- 11.8kg net weight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the QUAD Platina Stream current?
Yes. It is QUAD's current flagship standalone network player.
Is it a streamer or a DAC?
Both. It is a network streamer with an integrated ESS ES9038PRO DAC and both analogue and digital outputs.
Does it have Qobuz Connect?
Yes.
Does it have TIDAL Connect?
Yes.
Does it have Spotify Connect?
Yes.
Does it support AirPlay 2?
Yes.
Is it Roon Ready?
Yes. The Platina Stream is a certified Roon Ready network endpoint.
Does it support Plex?
Yes.
Does it support UPnP?
Yes. QUAD specifies UPnP AV with OpenHome audio-streaming support.
Does it have internet radio?
Yes. TuneIn Radio is supported.
Does it support gapless playback?
Yes.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi is supported.
Which Wi-Fi standards are supported?
IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Does it have Ethernet?
Yes. The port supports 10/100/1000 Base-T Ethernet with auto-negotiation.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
Either can be used. QUAD recommends wired Ethernet where possible for demanding high-resolution network playback.
Can it display Wi-Fi signal strength?
Yes. The system information menu reports Wi-Fi RSSI so reception quality can be checked.
Does QUAD provide its own app?
Yes. The dedicated Platina app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
Can the app search a local library?
Yes. QUAD provides indexing and search across network shares, USB libraries and supported streaming services.
Can it play from a NAS?
Yes. Compatible network music libraries can be accessed through the network platform.
Can it play from a USB hard drive?
Yes. Compatible USB storage devices can be attached directly.
Which USB drive formats are supported?
Single-partition FAT32, exFAT and NTFS.
What USB drive capacity has QUAD tested?
The current manual states that drives up to 4TB have been tested.
Does it have a USB DAC input?
Yes. A rear USB-B PC input allows direct Mac or Windows computer audio.
What is the maximum PCM resolution?
Up to 768kHz PCM.
Does it support DSD?
Yes. Native DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512 are supported.
What DAC does it use?
The ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC.
Is that the same DAC model as the Platina Integrated?
Yes. Both use an ES9038PRO-based DAC platform.
Does it upsample music?
Yes. Upsampling can convert compatible digital audio to 352.8kHz or 384kHz and can also be disabled.
What digital filters are provided?
Linear Slow, Linear Fast, Minimum Slow, Minimum Fast and Hybrid.
Can I use the DAC filters with upsampling on?
No. QUAD specifies that manual filter selection is available when Upsampling is switched off.
Does it have balanced XLR outputs?
Yes. A stereo pair is provided.
Does it have RCA outputs?
Yes.
What is the analogue output impedance?
120Ohm.
What analogue output voltage does QUAD publish?
The current specification gives a variable output range of 0 to 2.05Vrms. QUAD does not separately publish a different maximum XLR voltage in the current specification.
What is the RCA signal-to-noise ratio?
Greater than 116dB A-weighted.
What is the XLR signal-to-noise ratio?
Greater than 120dB A-weighted.
What is the analogue THD?
Less than 0.001% at 1kHz and 2.05Vrms.
Can the output level be fixed?
Yes. Fixed mode is intended for connection to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier that will control system volume.
Can the output level be variable?
Yes. Adjustable mode allows the Stream to control listening volume and connect directly to a suitable power amplifier.
What is the volume range?
-78dB to 0dB.
Is there a safe power-on volume limit?
Yes. The user can configure the maximum volume permitted when the player leaves standby.
Does volume control affect the digital outputs?
No. The volume control applies to the analogue outputs. The S/PDIF digital outputs remain fixed.
Does it have optical digital output?
Yes.
Does it have coaxial digital output?
Yes.
What is the maximum digital-output resolution?
24-bit/192kHz.
Do the digital outputs work with upsampling enabled?
No. QUAD specifies that optical and coaxial outputs are disabled when Upsampling is On.
Can the digital outputs pass 352.8kHz or 384kHz?
No. Their published maximum is 192kHz.
Can I use an external DAC?
Yes. Disable Upsampling and connect the coaxial or optical output to a compatible DAC.
Can it connect directly to a power amplifier?
Yes. Use the analogue outputs in Adjustable mode and check that the power amplifier's input sensitivity and impedance are appropriate.
Can I use it with an ordinary integrated amplifier?
Yes. Set the analogue output to Fixed and connect RCA or XLR to a suitable line-level input.
What is the best connection to the Platina Integrated?
Balanced XLR is an obvious analogue option, while optical or coaxial digital connection allows the Integrated's own ES9038PRO DAC to perform conversion. The preferred route is worth comparing in a demonstration.
Does it have Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is not specified for the Platina Stream. Mobile-device playback is handled primarily through network technologies such as AirPlay 2, Connect services and the Platina app.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
No. HDMI ARC is provided by the matching Platina Integrated rather than the Platina Stream.
Does it have analogue inputs?
No analogue audio input is specified. The Platina Stream is designed as a digital/network source.
Does it have a CD player?
No. Physical CD playback within the Platina Series is handled by the dedicated Platina CDT.
Does it support local MQA files?
QUAD's current operating manual lists MQA among the supported USB and network-library file types. QUAD does not separately publish a detailed MQA decoding-stage specification.
Does it have 12V triggers?
Yes. Trigger input and link/output connections are provided.
What size is the display?
4.3 inches.
What is the display resolution?
800 x 480 pixels.
Can it show album artwork?
Yes. Multiple artwork-oriented display modes are available.
Does it have VU meters?
Digital and analogue-style VU display modes are available on the screen.
Can the screen be switched off?
Yes.
Does it have auto standby?
Yes. The options are 20 minutes, 60 minutes and Never.
Does it receive firmware updates over the network?
Yes. The network software periodically checks for over-the-air updates, while separate MCU firmware can also be installed using official QUAD update files.
How large is the Platina Stream?
445mm wide, 134.5mm high and 348mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
11.8kg net.
What finishes are available?
Black and Silver.
Related QUAD Products
Why Buy the QUAD Platina Stream From Audio T?
Network players sit at the meeting point between Hi-Fi and home networking, which means the best installation is not just about choosing the right interconnect. Ethernet versus Wi-Fi, streaming-service setup, NAS configuration, fixed versus variable output, external DAC integration and the choice between RCA and balanced XLR can all affect how the system should be configured.
Audio T can demonstrate the Platina Stream as both an analogue source and digital transport, help connect Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify or Roon and compare the best way to partner it with the Platina Integrated or your existing amplifier.
- In-store demonstrations
- Qobuz Connect setup
- TIDAL Connect setup
- Spotify Connect setup
- Roon Ready configuration
- AirPlay 2 setup
- QUAD Platina app guidance
- NAS and network-library integration
- USB storage setup
- Ethernet and Wi-Fi advice
- Network troubleshooting
- PC USB audio setup
- RCA versus balanced XLR comparison
- Fixed versus adjustable output setup
- Direct-to-power-amplifier configuration
- External DAC integration
- DAC filter comparison
- Upsampling configuration
- Platina Integrated demonstrations
- 12V trigger setup
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss how the QUAD Platina Stream can integrate with your amplifier, network and music library.