September 2023: Nordost's new, QBASE Reference, which was first previewed this past. May at the High End Show in Munich, has now been officially released to the public. The QBASE Reference is a multifaceted, reference-level AC distribution unit that operates as a filter-less alternative to power conditioners, delivering pristine power to audio components, without imparting its own sonic characteristics on systems or limiting AC current.
When developing a power product to match the caliber of their most preeminent cable ranges, Nordost knew they had to go in a different direction than the standard power conditioner. The company has long preferred a parallel approach to power, in lieu of in-line power solutions. Nordost recognizes that while products like power conditioners do reduce noise, they simultaneously limit bandwidth, compress dynamics, and contribute to sonic confusion–compromises that Nordost refuses to make. In looking for a solution, Nordost turned to its own QRT products, a family of transformative, parallel power products designed to eliminate noise, enhance dynamics, and bring cohesion to performance, while preserving an unimpeded AC path to system components. It was within those already highly acclaimed ideas that the jumping-off point for the QBASE Reference was conceived.
At its core, the QBASE Reference is a passive distribution component that uses star-earth topology to address the noise-inducing, conflicting flow of signal and ground paths within a hifi system. However, that’s just the beginning of what the QBASE Reference has to offer. This 10-outlet AC distribution unit offers numerous Nordost technologies within its mechanically tuned, extruded aluminum chassis, in order to bring a new realm of power optimization and audio refinement to reference systems.
www.nordost.com
The QBASE Reference is now available at select Nordost dealers, worldwide.
The suggested retail price for the QBASE Reference is $17,999.99. It is designed with an IEC C-20 (20/16amp) input and is available with US, EU (Schuko), or AUS outputs. The QBASE Reference is designed to conquer the imperfections and unpredictability of the AC signal, making it the ultimate solution for achieving unprecedented audio purity. Introducing it into your system will allow you to hear your music as it was intended to be
experienced without compromise
