QUAD 3-CDT: The New Quad CD Transport – Arriving Soon at Fanthorpes HiFi

The world of physical media is far from finished. With CDs still outselling vinyl in the UK and collectors holding decades’ worth of cherished discs, a high-quality CD transport remains an essential piece of hi-fi equipment. Enter the QUAD 3-CDT — the brand-new CD transport from QUAD, joining the recently launched QUAD 3 integrated amplifier in the company’s retro-inspired, performance-driven 3 Series.

We’re delighted to announce that the QUAD 3-CDT will be available from Fanthorpes HiFi shortly, and we’re extremely excited to get our hands on it. Here’s why this compact CD transport is already generating serious buzz.

A Perfect Partner for the QUAD 3 Integrated Amplifier

In summer 2025, QUAD unveiled the QUAD 3 integrated amplifier, a model blending the iconic design language of QUAD’s 1960s preamps with modern engineering, a superb built-in DAC, and exceptional build quality. Naturally, the next step was to produce a matching CD transport—and the QUAD 3-CDT is the perfect fit.

The 3-CDT mirrors the QUAD 3’s 30cm compact footprint, matt silver fascia, dark grey enclosure and striking orange backlit display. From the very first glance, it’s unmistakably QUAD — a modern reimagining of a timeless aesthetic.

Why a Dedicated CD Transport?

Unlike a standard CD player, a CD transport focuses solely on one task: extracting digital data from a disc with absolute precision. By removing DAC and analogue circuitry, QUAD eliminates potential interference, electrical noise and distortion — all key factors for high-end performance.

This purist approach gives the QUAD 3-CDT several advantages:

1. Cleaner, error-free digital output

2. Lower jitter

3. Reduced internal noise

4. Better synergy with high-quality DACs, especially the QUAD 3

Whether you use it with the QUAD 3 or another high-grade DAC, the 3-CDT delivers exquisitely pure digital audio.

Built for Accuracy: Engineering That Matters

The QUAD 3-CDT is much more than a pretty face. Inside its precision-machined chassis lies a sophisticated architecture designed for elite disc handling and signal integrity.

Key Engineering Highlights

1. High-precision CD mechanism engineered for outstanding reliability

2. Custom CD servo control system optimised to reduce read errors and jitter

3. Dual-core control platform featuring a 32-bit RISC CPU + dedicated MCU

4. Toroidal transformer with isolated pathways for ultra-low-noise power

5. Temperature-controlled ultra-precision crystal oscillator (TCXO) for rock-solid clocking

6. Dedicated low-noise voltage regulation across servo and clock circuits

These design choices allow the 3-CDT to deliver an exceptionally clean and stable digital signal — the ideal foundation for high-fidelity playback.

Engineered to Resist Vibration and Noise

To maintain optimal performance, QUAD has implemented:

1. A shielded, damped transport mechanism

2. Reinforced internal architecture

3. Carefully arranged circuit pathways

4. Acoustic and electrical isolation

From the disc tray to the coaxial and optical outputs, every detail has been over-engineered for stability, longevity and sonic precision.

Format Flexibility for Modern Collections

The QUAD 3-CDT goes far beyond standard Red Book CD playback. It supports:

1. CD, CD-R, CD-RW, data CDs

2. FLAC, WAV, WMA, MP3, APE files

It’s also known for its ability to read damaged or dirty discs that lesser transports reject — invaluable for big collectors and long-time CD enthusiasts.

Vintage Style, Future-Ready Performance

While its retro-inspired design pays homage to QUAD’s heritage, the 3-CDT is fully modern where it counts. It’s compact, beautifully built, and engineered with an obsessive attention to detail. Whether used as part of a full QUAD 3 system or paired with other high-end components, it delivers the kind of clean, coherent digital output that great DACs thrive on.

And with an RRP of just £599, it offers remarkable engineering for the price.

Coming Soon to Fanthorpes HiFi

We’re thrilled to confirm that the QUAD 3-CDT will be hitting Fanthorpes HiFi very soon, and we can’t wait to experience it first-hand. If you’re building a premium CD-based system — or revitalising a treasured CD collection — the QUAD 3-CDT is certainly something to consider.

For more information about Quad 3-CDT call us on 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk

Trade In

At Fanthorpes we love to trade in, so if you want to trade in your existing HiFi against new HiFi, contact us and we will let you know what it is worth as a trade in.

Finance Available

We can also offer buy now pay later on orders above £400, allowing you to spread or defer your payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery and Installation Service

When you buy equipment from Fanthorpes HiFi, we will provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our installer will drive to your house and install your new HiFi. For more information about our delivery and installation service email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk or call 01482 223096.