Quad Artera Stereo, 2-channel power amplifier

The Quad Artera Stereo is an elegant yet powerful two-channel power amplifier designed for maximum sonic precision and dynamics. It combines classic British engineering with cutting-edge audio technology, including the legendary Current Dumping architecture. Not only does this amplifier easily drive even the most demanding speakers, it also delivers the essence of music with impressive transparency and control. It is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-quality audio amplifier for both music and serious Hi-Fi systems.

Rated output power: 140 W (8 Ω, THD <1%, 1 kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD):
– <0.003% (100W, 1kHz)
- <0.03% (100 W, 20 Hz - 20 kHz)
Frequency range:
- -0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
– −3 dB (20 Hz – 70 kHz)
Input sensitivity: 980 mV (RCA line input)
Input impedance:
– 10 kΩ (balanced)
– 15 kΩ (unbalanced)
Signal-to-noise ratio (S/N): 115 dB (A-weighted, at 140 W)

From the transformer to the input terminals, each section of the Artera has been engineered from the ground up to ensure power, musicality and stability. The Artera Stereo produces 140 Watts RMS per channel – ample power for driving first-class loudspeakers, unfaltering even under high dynamic and transient conditions thanks to the patented Current Dumping technology. Special attention has also been paid to the newly developed balanced XLR inputs. The robust connections are yet another string to the Artera Stereo's bow, with an incomparable signal to noise ratio.

Current Dumping is essentially a method of marrying the superior sonic purity of Class A amplification with the greater efficiency of Class AB. An extremely high-quality, low-power Class A amplifier provides the signal quality, while a high-power current dumping section delivers the muscle to keep the speakers under control. These two amp circuits are combined via a precision network to perfectly impose the finesse of the Class A output onto the power of the current dumper. The result is a relatively compact and cool-running power amp capable of delivering a captivating combination of dynamic power, vice-like grip and sumptuous sonic detail.

The Artera Stereo's power output is conservatively rated at 140W per channel into eight ohms and 250W into four ohms, ensuring any speakers – including QUAD's classic ESL electrostatic designs – can be driven with ease. Connectivity options include single-ended RCA and balanced XLR inputs, a 12V trigger input and high-quality speaker binding posts. Simple, solid and classy on the outside and devilishly clever within, the Artera Stereo maintains QUAD's traditional place at the forefront of modern amplifier design

Model Artera Stereo
General Description Power Amplifier
Rated Output Power 140W 8 ohm (<1% THD,1kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion <0.003% (100W, 1kHz)
<0.03% (100W, 20Hz-20kHz)
Frequency Response -0.5dB (20Hz-20kHz, ref. 1kHz)
-3dB (20Hz-70kHz, ref. 1kHz)
Input Sensitivity 980mV(RCA line in)
Input Impedance 10kohm (Balanced)
15kohm (Unbalanced)
Signal to Noise Ration(S/N) 115dB (A weighted, ref. 140W)
Maximum Power Consumption 750W
Inputs 2 x XLR, RCA
Outputs Speaker A+B
Standby Power Consumption <0.5W
Dimensions (W x H x D) 320 x 158 x 338mm
Weight 15kg

User manual (EN)