Author Archives: Nordost

Dealer Spotlight: Kazoo Audio

Posted on by
Reply

By Mike Marko

John Ferry, of Kazoo Audio, is a true veteran of the Michigan audio scene. Kazoo is a bastion of audio bests in the suburban town of Portage, located outside of Kalamazoo, MI, which John operates alongside his business partner, Chris Zainea. Both Chris and John are dedicated to providing the perfect mix of top-tier audio equipment and service. In their search to find the best audio equipment to create the most memorable musical experiences, they found Nordost, and have been an exemplary Nordost dealer ever since.  

Before Kazoo Audio was born, John operated out of the former Classic Stereo, which served the audiophiles of Michigan until the financial crisis of 2008/2009 forced Classic out of business. However, after being brought to tears by an especially powerful musical performance in Nashville with his daughter, John realized the importance of creating an emotional, musical connection in the home. He was inspired to get back into the business, and two months later, Kazoo Audio was open!

John and Chris moved to their current location in 2016. They designed the shop around the love of music, staying true to their chosen mantra: “Where Music Matters”. 

When you enter the store, you are greeted by a beautiful selection of equipment. Not to mention, superior service and knowledge from the Kazoo Audio team. As you move through the store, you will find a wide selection in price and performance levels, with several systems on display for audition. As an added bonus, most of the systems feature Nordost cabling and power products.

At Kazzoo, they pride themselves on offering an honest and professional presentation of audio systems in both two-channel systems and home theater set-ups. Kazoo has a little something for audio enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

If you find yourself in the Kalamazoo/Portage area, be sure to stop in for an experience you won’t soon forget.

The QRT Family Explained

Posted on by
Reply

Nordost’s QRT family consists of several impressive audio enhancers. Each of these offerings works as an individually contained solution, with unique objectives for alleviating the poor power quality that impacts audio systems. Since the QRT portfolio is growing, we wanted to briefly explain each QRT solution on the market, and the distinctive benefits that they bring to a system. 

QBASE Mark III

The QBASE is a passive AC distribution unit that addresses the noise caused by conflicting signal and ground paths in a hifi system. It does this by using Star Earth Topology, a design that provides ground separation and allows stray voltages and eddy currents to be referred to one, central, ground point, by lifting the resistance of all outlets on the device except for that of the Primary Earth (which would serve the pre-amp or integrated amp of the system). The QBASE is available with either 8 or 4 outlets (or 6 outlets for the UK model) and uses either an IEC C-14 or C-20 input. 

QRT Plug-Ins

The QSINE, QWAVE, QVIBE, and QKOIL are a range of complimentary, modular AC products that improve upon the AC quality that feeds your home sound system. Whether it’s by generating a field, reshaping a sine wave, or introducing harmonics onto the AC line, each of these unique solutions work to reduce EMI, lower the noise floor, and increase clarity and imagery of the musical reproduction. 

QPOINT

The QPOINT is a resonance synchronizer that manipulates the electromechanical resonances inside the components within its immediate proximity so that they resonate in unison with each other. Synching these resonances eliminates internal electrical noise and enhances the coherency and timing of the components themselves. The QPOINT allows users to switch between two distinct modes, each with their own unique characteristics, to better tailor results for each individual system. 

QNET

The QNET is a layer-2, five-port Ethernet switch that has been designed and constructed from the ground up to maximize audio performance. Every aspect of the QNET, including its multi-layered layout, its six dedicated power supplies, the incredibly stable oscillator for its clock, and the five, independent 8P8C ports, were chosen in order to minimize noise, crosstalk, and interference. 

QSOURCE

The QSOURCE is a linear power supply that provides a stable, clean output of DC Power at select voltages. Its unique design removes electrical anomalies and noise artifacts from the line and smooths out DC output. Meanwhile, a fanless construction maintains extremely low noise levels, which allows heightened articulation and dynamics to shine through digitally-run systems. The QSOURCE is the perfect upgrade to Nordost’s QNET network switch and as many as four QPOINTs, while simultaneously powering two additional digital components (specced to run at 9V, 12V, 19V, or 24V respectively). 

QKORE

QKOREs are parallel grounding devices which provide an artificial, “clean” earth for hifi systems by using both an electrical and mechanical approach. Using Norodst’s Mono-Filament technology, Low-Voltage Attractor Plates, and a passive electronic circuit, QKOREs draw stray high frequency noise and voltage-generated magnetic fields to a manufactured earth point, leaving a clean reference behind. 

While it’s apparent how individualized each of these audio solutions are, it’s important to highlight that the benefits gained from using them together, as a family, can be staggering. Nordost’s QRT family is a holistic approach to achieving great sound. When used in concert, each and every QRT addition to an already well-composed system brings yet another layer of improvement to the musical performance. 

The QRT family truly is a FAMILY of products, and we really encourage you to think of it in that way.

Nordost Playlist – August 2023

Posted on by
Reply

Nordost products are designed to allow you to enjoy your favorite performances as they were intended to be heard. All of us here are passionate about great music, and want to share our passion with you. Each one of us has our own style… We listen to a wide variety of artists and genres but, in a way, we appreciate them all. We thought that we would share a few of the songs on our own personal playlists with you each month. Some may be classics, some may be brand new, some may not even be to your tastes, but we hope that there is something here for everyone.

Here are some of the songs that we will have on rotation this August.

You can now listen to our monthly playlist here:  TIDAL  | SPOTIFY  |  QOBUZ

  1. Troy – Sinéad O’Connor – The Lion and the Cobra 
  2. Chevrolet Van – The Nude Party – The Nude Party
  3. Tengo el Alma Herida – Marta Gómez, Andrés Rotmistrovsky – Bajo & Voz
  4. One Day – Matisyahu – Light
  5. Harvest – Rufus Wainwright, Andrew Bird, Chris Stills – Folkocracy
  6. Simple Man – Acoustic – Shinedown – Leave a Whisper (Deluxe Edition)
  7. Sun Dog – Edouard Ferlet – Sun Dog
  8. Brothers in Arms – Club For Five – You’re The Voice
  9. The Boxer – Jerry Douglas, Mumford & Sons, Paul Simon – Babel (Deluxe Version)
  10. Old Engine Oil – The Budos Band – V

Questions & Answers: QBASE Mark III

Posted on by
Reply

The QBASE was first released to the audio world in 2009. Almost 15 years and two iterations later, the QBASE is still as sought after as when it was launched. However, over those 15 years, much has been improved. The QBASE Mark III made its debut at AXPONA this past spring, and a new version brings new questions. We decided to address some of the most asked questions we have been receiving here, so you can find your answers in one place! 

Q: What’s the difference between the QBASE Mark II and Mark III?

A: Both the QBASE Mark II and Mark III are passive, distribution blocks that use Star Earth topology to address the conflicting flows of signal and ground paths which create noise. However, there have been several upgrades and changes to the QBASE Mark III which have had a massive impact on its audible performance, which are as follows: 

  • Newly designed, dual PC-board 
  • Increased separation of all ground connections from the line and neutral traces
  • Minimized interference/crosstalk between live/neutral and ground currents 
  • Enhanced trace sizes to maximize current flow 
  • Revised resistance sink to add protection and effectively damp eddy currents

Q: Do certain components benefit from being plugged into specific outlets on the QBASE Mark III? 

A: Like with the QBASE Mark II, all outlets on the QBASE Mark III are identical, except for the outlet labeled Primary Earth. To get the best results from any QBASE, you should plug whichever component has the most connections to it into the Primary Earth outlet. In many systems, this is either the preamp or the integrated amp. However, in digitally run systems, you should plug whichever device your volume is featured on into primary earth. 


Q: What sonic improvements can you expect from the QBASE Mark III? 

A: The QBASE Mark III offers a big step up in performance over the QBASE Mark II. Some sonic improvements you can expect are: 

  • A much quieter background
  • Improved instrument and vocal separation
  • Improved 3D imaging 
  • Longer decays and extension 
  • A pronounced sense of effortlessness and calm
  • More power behind the sound 

Q: Can you still use the QRT Stand Mount with the QBASE Mark III? 

A: Yes, the QBASE Mark III is still compatible with the QRT Stand Mount, which not only helps with the stability of the product (especially when it’s being used with heavier, reference-level audio cables), but also allows for easy support with Sort Kones. Using the QBASE with Sort Kones essentially wicks it of all internal vibrations, making a massive audible improvement. 


GY8 Reviews the QBASE Mark III AC Distribution Unit

Posted on by
2

Since the launch of our new QBASE Mark III AC Distribution Unit, we have been inundated with positive feedback from our retailers and customers; so we are excited to share the first official QB8 MK III review. After using the QBASE Mark III at the High End show in Munich, Roy Gregory was excited to take it home to experiment further in his home system. He has since determined that the newest iteration of the QB8 remains “in the front rank of audiophile distribution blocks”, so I think it’s safe to say he was pleased with the results as well. 

In the listening comparisons that Roy conducted with both the new and old QBASE units, he found several “clear musical and sonic advantages” to the Mark III, including “increased presence from a crisper and more clearly defined sound-stage” and an ability for the music to breathe and really express emotion. 

“The latest QB8 should open the window on your recordings wider than ever before, not least because its benefits spread across every component in your system, allowing every single one to work better.” – Roy Gregory, Gy8

You can now find Roy’s review on the Reviews Page of the Nordost website, or read it in its entirety here: STAR QUALITY – THE NORDOST QB8 MK. III DISTRIBUTION BLOCK

Nordost Playlist – July 2023

Posted on by
Reply

Nordost products are designed to allow you to enjoy your favorite performances as they were intended to be heard. All of us here are passionate about great music, and want to share our passion with you. Each one of us has our own style… We listen to a wide variety of artists and genres but, in a way, we appreciate them all. We thought that we would share a few of the songs on our own personal playlists with you each month. Some may be classics, some may be brand new, some may not even be to your tastes, but we hope that there is something here for everyone.

Here are some of the songs that we will have on rotation this July.

You can now listen to our monthly playlist here:  TIDAL  | SPOTIFY  |  QOBUZ

  1. September Song—Eartha Kitt—The Collection
  2. Rise—Dominique Fils-Aimé—Nameless
  3. Napule Canta E More—Donatella Viggiano—Napoli Segreta 
  4. Alone Again, Naturally—Vulfmon, Vulf, Monica Martin, Hailey Niswanger—Here We Go Jack
  5. Liberty—Anette Askvik—Liberty 
  6. Secret Love Affair—Delfeayo Marsalis—Kalamazoo (an Evening with Delfeayo Marsalis 
  7. Water Flowing Downward—Andrea von Kampen—That Spell
  8. Duende—Bozzio Levin Stevens—Black Light Syndrome
  9. When She Sings to Me—Jeff Cascaro—Mother and Brother 
  10. The Show Goes On—Bruce Hornsby, The Range—Scenes From The Southside

Dealer Spotlight: Suncoast Audio

Posted on by
Reply

By Seth Snyder

In the audiophile community, it is becoming increasingly important for the most enthusiastic of us to act as spokespeople for the pursuit of great sound. Michael Bovaird has been preaching the good word from Florida since 2015. You can find this shop in Sarasota, Florida, where he and his team have both the gear and the expertise to impress even the most ardent audiophiles. 

When you schedule an appointment to visit Suncoast Audio, you will be treated to three different, spectacularly appointed listening rooms, designed to help you choose the best components for your own personal system. Michael and his team have access to countless prestigious brands for anyone to choose from. For speakers, Mike has chosen a wide variety of technologies and prices from well-known brands like Bowers and Wilkins and Focal, to beautiful and unique brands like Clarysis Audio and Avantgarde Acoustics. When it comes to electronics, you will find gear curated to blow you away. Looking for a new processor for your theater from Trinnov? Or a new Block Audio amplifier with enough Class-A power to drive cattle? Whether it be a streamer, processor, DAC, or amp, the team at Suncoast is ready and waiting to exceed expectations with the best brands at any price. And of course… they can furnish any system with the best of Nordost’s cable and power solutions! 

For the past four years, Suncoast Audio has been giving audio enthusiasts the opportunity to experience world-renowned gear at the annual Florida Audio Expo. Shows like these are where the audio community comes to listen to both brands they already know and love, as well as the newest emerging brands breaking into the industry. It’s so important for smaller companies to prove their merit among the giants of our industry in venues like these. For “industry insiders” like us, it’s where we come to meet old friends and share stories, favorite albums, and advice about the gear that we love. Michael not only seeks to meet the expectations of his Suncoast Audio customers, he pushes our industry forward with all the work he does outside his shop as a co-owner of shows like the Florida Audio Expo. 

If you find yourself in the Sarasota, Florida, make it a point to schedule an appointment with the team at Suncoast Audio: 

7353 International Place 

Unit 309 

Sarasota, FL 34240, USA 

Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, EST 

Or visit them at the 4th annual Florida Audio Expo on February 16th-18th 2024 in Tampa, Florida. Visit their website www.floridaaudioexpo.com to plan your trip! 

QPOINT Reviews

Posted on by
Reply

We’ve received some fantastic reviews and awards over the years for our products. When we get new reviews, we do our best to make sure that everyone knows. We spread the word through social media, blogs, emails, and tell anyone willing to listen! However, once the press starts piling up, and new products start to get their time in the spotlight, these amazing reviews can tend to be forgotten.

While you always have access to these great reviews, thanks to the Reviews Page on the Nordost website, we want to make sure that if you are considering an upgrade, or just want to learn more about a specific product, you can do so easily. This is especially true with a product like the QPOINT. Nordost QPOINT is a Resonance Synchronizers that emits a subtle field which manipulates all electromechanical resonances within its immediate proximity so that they resonate in unison with each other. By syncing these resonances, the QPOINT eliminates internal electrical noise, enhancing the coherency and timing that is typically lacking in even the most high-end audio systems.

There is A LOT to learn about our QPOINT units, and the in-depth reviews that these products have received are a great starting point in understanding how they work, and what their benefits are! 

This blog puts together some of our favorite QPOINT reviews so that you can access all of these informative articles at once! 

The Absolute Sound: Nordost QRT QPoint and QRT QSource Resonance Synchronizer – Strange but True

“With the introduction of the QPOINTS, the orchestra really snapped into place. It was like a photo that went from blurry to sharp in the blink of an eye. It was a sheer pleasure to hear . . . What a revelation!” – Jacob Heilbrunn, The Absolute Sound

Hi-Fi+: Nordost QPoint harmonisers and QSource power supply

“The music sounds more ‘right’ and musicians sound more like they are playing together…you tend to notice an increased sense of dynamic freedom to the sound…” – Alan Sircom, Hi-Fi+

Posi+ive Feedback: Nordost QPOINT Synchronizer

“…the QPOINT locks down the map of the stage and increases the grip, adding body mass and boosting low frequency response. The sound is more pure and becomes easier to read, as if the signal has been cleaned up and extraneous stuff removed.” – Marshall Nack, Positive Feedback

High Fidelity: Nordost QPOINT Resonance Synchronizer

“These are not “additions”, but as important elements of the audio system as any other ones…I have got used to it and to what it does to the sound of my player so fast and so strongly that I experienced physical pain when I was putting the device back into the box . . .” – Wojciech Pacuta, High Fidelity

Questions and Answers: QSINE and QWAVE

Posted on by
3

With the launch of our QSINE and QWAVE products at the High End show in Munich, there has been a lot of excitement, but also (and understandably so) some questions. We thought that the best thing to do was to answer some of the questions we have been hearing in one place so that we can all be a bit more informed about the newest Nordost QRT Plug-Ins.

Q: What are “QRT Plug-Ins”?

A: The term “QRT Plug-In” may be new, but our plug-in products have been a part of Nordost’s offerings for years, starting with the QVIBE (QV2), continuing with the QKOIL (QK1), and now including the new QSINE and QWAVE. While each product within our range of QRT Plug-Ins offers unique solutions, they are all modular, complimentary AC products that improve upon the poor-quality AC that negatively affects the audio/video performance of two-channel and home entertainment systems.

Q: What are the audible effects of the QSINE?

A: The audible effects of the QSINE are as follows:
• Reduced background noise
• Increased resolution, detail, and pacing
• Improved soundstage (especially depth)
• Addresses all frequencies

Q: What are the audible effects of the QWAVE?

A: The audible effects of the QWAVE are as follows:
• Lowered noise floor
• Increased imagery and dimensionality
• Improved timing and rhythm
• Focuses on upper bass and midrange

Q: Can you use the QSINE and QWAVE alongside the QKOIL and QVIBE?

A: The QSINE and QWAVE were designed to work with and complement the QKOIL and QVIBE. While they can be used individually, you are encouraged to pair the QSINE and QWAVE with each other or, for optimal use, combine them with the QKOIL and QVIBE.

For more information about the QSINE and QWAVE please visit their product page on the Nordost website, or read our product announcement blog: Introducing the QSINE and QWAVE

Hi-Fi+ Analogue Award WINNER: Odin 2 Tonearm Cable +

Posted on by
Reply

We are happy to share that Nordost’s Odin 2 Tonearm Cable + has been awarded with the Hi-Fi+ Analogue Award!

First introduced in 2021, the Odin 2 Tonearm Cable + is the perfect solution for audiophiles who want the absolute best from their high-resolution, vinyl-sourced systems. Alan Sircom was absolutely blown away by our Supreme Reference tonearm cable, due to its unmatched performance and comprehensive grounding solution. As he said when he first reviewed this product:  

“This is the best damn cable to hook a turntable to a phono stage. Ever.” – Hi-Fi+  

We’re not sure that you can get any higher praise than that!

You can read Alan’s Odin 2 Tonearm Cable + review here: Nordost Odin 2 Tonearm Cable +

You can find Hi-Fi+’s official Analogue Award statement here: Hi-Fi+ Analogue Awards 2023‘