Author Archives: Nordost

Nordost at the 2024 Hong Kong AV Show

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For the past 21 years, Audiotechnique has organized and hosted an annual HiFi Show in Hong Kong. Last month, it was showtime once again! During the show, Nordost was featured in one of the largest rooms at the show, Room 421. This has been Nordost’s homebase at the Hong Kong AV Show since we began our partnership with Radar Audio, our premium HiFi distributor in Hong Kong and China, led by the friendly and dynamic Michael Wong. 

Given the spacious room, Radar Audio made expert use of the space by setting up three dedicated systems. Each system was given a 30-minute slot, two presenters from Radar Audio, and a special manufacturer representative in order to impress attendees. Due to language constraints and the fact that the Hong Kong/China audience is more interested in the sound quality rather than lengthy explanations of technical solutions, we kept our speech to a minimum and focused on letting the music speak for itself. This approach has proven to be very effective in maximizing the exposure of all the manufacturers’ products, with a lot of music played.

This year, Nordost’s system featured a combination of MSB Technology for digital front-end and amplification, Vertere Acoustics for the analog front-end, and British speaker manufacturer Kudos to bring the air into motion. Everything was wired with Nordost cables, of course, using predominantly Odin 2, and Valhalla 2, with a few precious positions connected with Odin Gold. All power for the system was routed through our latest reference AC distribution unit, the QBASE Reference. Its unique, filterless technology ensured there was no loss of energy, which was crucial given the size of the room. Every ounce of power was essential for maintaining control while filling the vast volume of air with high-end performance music.

Over the three-day duration of the show, the Radar Audio crew remained attentive, helpful, and on their toes throughout the long hours. For instance, when a visitor became a bit too eager to appreciate the build quality of an Odin Gold power cord, which was securely fastened to a display box, the frame of the box was accidentally damaged. The Radar team responded with, “No problem,” and by the next morning, the box was sturdier than ever, with no visible signs of the damage. Professionalism at its best!

Leaving the Hong Kong show is always bittersweet, as working with the Radar Audio crew is such a pleasure. However, the show will return in 2025. Less than a year to go, and of course, Nordost will be there!

Nordost Playlist – September 2024

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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 September.

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

  1. Shift To Reverse — Nikolaj Grandjean — Carrying Stars (Bonus Version)
  2. I Can’t Stand The Rain — Ann Peebles — I Can’t Stand The Rain
  3. Half The World Away – Remastered — Oasis — Definitely Maybe – 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition
  4. One Time — Marian Hill — Sway
  5. Asimbonanga (Mandela) — Johnny Clegg, Savuka — Third World Child
  6. To Leave Something Behind — Sean Rowe — To Leave Something Behind
  7. Billie Jean — Vanessa Fernandez — I Want You
  8. Torn Screen Door — David Francey — Torn Screen Door
  9. Are You Serious — Andrew Bird — Are You Serious
  10. Hard to Let Go — Men I Trust — Hard to Let Go

hi-fi+ Reviews the QBASE Mark III AC Distribution Unit

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We’re excited to share our latest review, released last month in hi-fi+, featuring the QBASE Mark III AC distribution unit. Since reviewer Steve Dickinson does his listening in the UK, we provided him with our QB6, the six-outlet version of our QBASE. But for all music lovers located outside of the United Kingdom, its construction is identical to the QB8s available in the rest of the world! Once Steve was able to have some quality time with our QB6, he admitted that it would “be hard to get this much improvement for a similar outlay anywhere else.” He even got the chance to experiment with pairing his QBASE unit with our QRT Stand Mount, and Sort Kones, which proved to be a great upgrade. As he described, the combo “elevate[d] familiar recordings to the level of ‘newly-discovered’ all over again.”

“The Nordost QBASE QB6 Mark III builds on the considerable strengths of the units that went before it, bringing significant benefits to timing and the resolution of fine but musically important detail.” – Steve Dickinson, hi-fi+

You can read Steve’s QBASE Mark III review here: Nordost QBASE QB6 Mark III mains distribution block

Dealer Spotlight: Reference Analog

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Just outside Oklahoma City, Reference Analog has been a haven for true audiophiles for over a decade. Specializing in two-channel audio systems, Reference Analog is the brainchild of Jeff Harris, a passionate audio enthusiast with decades of experience.

Operating by appointment only, Reference Analog offers a unique and personalized experience for those seeking the pinnacle of sound reproduction. Jeff’s journey into the world of audio began in his childhood, dancing to records with his sister. His father’s love for music sparked a lifelong passion that led him to open Oklahoma’s premier reference-level high-end audio shop. Conveniently located near the airport and easily accessible from Dallas, Reference Analog is a must-visit for discerning audiophiles.

As the name suggests, Reference Analog is dedicated to the purity of analog sound while also offering digital components that meet their stringent standards. Their profound appreciation for analog has honed their ability to identify digital systems that deliver a similarly rich and detailed sonic experience. Their meticulous approach ensures that every client receives expert guidance and tailored solutions.

Reference Analog proudly offers a handpicked selection of products from esteemed brands like YG, Rockport, Boulder, Audio Research, MSB, REL, HRS, VPI, and Brinkmann. The store features a dedicated demo location with small, medium, and large rooms, each designed to showcase entry-level to world-class reference experiences. It’s the ideal setting to immerse yourself in the magic of these exceptional systems.

Their dedication to superior sound quality and customer service has earned Reference Analog a loyal following and a reputation for excellence. Jeff’s commitment to his customers is unparalleled. “We collaborate closely with our customers, crafting the experiences they envision,” he says. “We build strong connections with them, taking the time to ensure their experience exceeds expectations.” Their willingness to spend hours discussing the hobby with clients, even long after the sale, speaks volumes about their dedication. “Our time is given freely, which is rare in the industry,” Jeff notes. “Investing time in our customers is a core part of our approach, setting us apart.”

Reference Analog has achieved significant recognition within the industry. The company has garnered multiple awards, including the prestigious VPI Reference Award, and has earned “Best of Show” honors at major events like AXPONA. Their expertise and commitment to delivering unparalleled audio experiences has cemented their status as leaders in the field. For the Southwest Audio Fest’s inaugural event, Reference Analog had not one, but three rooms featuring different brands. Look out for more exciting initiatives on the horizon.

The Emotion in the Music

At the heart of Reference Analog’s philosophy lies a simple yet profound motto: The Emotion in the Music. Jeff explains, “This comes from our desire to bring emotion back into people’s listening experiences.” This passion fuels every aspect of the business, from the meticulous selection of brands that deliver this emotional connection, to the expert set-up skills that bring the systems to life.

Reference Analog is more than just an audio store; it’s a destination for those who seek the ultimate in audio performance. With Jeff at the helm, this Oklahoma-based company continues to set the standard for excellence in the high-end audio world. Whether you’re an analog purist or a digital enthusiast, Reference Analog offers the expertise, products, and personalized service to elevate your listening experience to new heights.

Moore, OK 73160

By Appointment Only

Phone: (405) 795-3462

Email: info@referenceanalog.com

Web: www.referenceanalog.com

Nordost Playlist – August 2024

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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. Kiss of Life — Sade — The Best of Sade
  2. Just A Girl – Radio 1 Live Acoustic — No Doubt — Rock Steady (Expanded Edition)
  3. Give The Drummer Some — Nikodemus, The Real Live Show, Nappy G — Endangered Species
  4. Rise To Me — The Decemberists — The King Is Dead
  5. Hush — The Marías — CINEMA
  6. Turn Your Lights Down Low — Bob Marley, Ms. Lauren Hill — Reggae Collected 
  7. While My Guitar Gently Weeps — Santana, India Arie, Yo-Yo Ma — Guitare Heaven: The Greatest Guitar Classics Of All Time (Deluxe Version)
  8. Jean Pierre — Marcus Miller — Marcus
  9. Hey Laura — Gregory Porter — Liquid Spirit (Deluxe Version)
  10. Taurus – Mixed — Glass Beams — DJ-Kicks: Jayda G

Dealer Spotlight: Entertainment Technology

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By Seth Snyder 

Finding an experienced advisor for your hi-fi needs can be a daunting task. The number of unique and emerging technologies in audio is ever-growing. Although it’s fun to navigate those waters, the sheer volume of information that’s available today can be overwhelming at times. That’s why it’s so important to have a trusted confidant at your side when deciding what gear is worth your investment.

Ray Benza has been making music “work” since the 1970’s. His current shop, Entertainment Technology, has been serving the greater NYC area for the past 25 years. As the world of audio evolves, so does the portfolio of brands at ‘ET’. Wilson, McIntosh, Dan D’Agostino, Sonus Faber, and dCS are all available to audition at his shop in Mount Kisco, New York. With four separate listening areas and a full theater, it’s easy for an audiophile to lose track of time. Make sure to spend some time with their new Mcintosh 75th anniversary system. The system includes Wilson Audio Alexia V’s driven by the flagship MC2.1KW mono-amps from Mcintosh, wired top-to-bottom with Valhalla 2 cabling and QBase AC distributors from Nordost. We are thrilled that with all his experience over the years, Ray and his team have recognized that Nordost make these products perform at their best, and recommends our cables and AC distributors to his clients.

One of the wonderful things about New York City is the availability of absolutely anything you could possibly imagine. The city, and it’s surrounding area, prides itself on providing the unrivaled best of everything. Be it fashion, fine-dining, or the arts, it’s all here. Ray and Entertainment Technology are no exception. If you find yourself in the New York, Tri-State area looking for the best in hifi, Entertainment Technology is worth your time and attention.

Make an appointment today!

Entertainment Technology (914) 242-8881

309 N Bedford Rd, Mt Kisco, NY 10549

Nordost Playlist – July 2024

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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. Good Luck, Babe! – Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! 
  2. Lose Control – Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy 
  3. Behind the Wall – Tracy Chapman – Tracy Chapman 
  4. Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter – Please Please Please 
  5. Vocab – Fugees – Original Album Classics 
  6. Only You – Chie Ayado – Live ! The Best
  7. Riverside – Agnes Obel – Philharmonics
  8. Pretty Face – Sóley – We Sink 
  9. Too Good At Goodbyes – Sam Smith – The Thrill Of It All (Special Edition) 
  10. Queens Highway – Menahan Street Band – The Exciting Sounds of Menahan Street Band

How to Upgrade your DAC

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Just because you aren’t satisfied with an audio component doesn’t mean you have to start from scratch. Before committing to a full replacement, see if there are ways to elevate the product that you already have and give your gear an upgrade! Let’s take your DAC, for example. By making just a few adjustments, you could reduce signal interference, improve the sound quality, increase dynamics, and much more. “But what can you do to upgrade a DAC?”, you might ask. That’s where the fun starts! There are several ways that you can upgrade your DAC’s performance… and who doesn’t love a good option?


Here are six simple enhancements that you can make to your DAC setup to achieve serious musical gains: 

Power Cord: 

The foundation of any audio system starts with clean and consistent power delivery. Nordost’s power cords are meticulously engineered to minimize electrical interference and maximize power transfer, resulting in improved clarity, dynamics, and overall sound quality.  

Analog Interconnects: 

If your aim is a faithful reproduction of your music, Nordost’s Analog Interconnects are essential. These interconnects ensure that every nuance of your music is preserved, allowing you to experience your favorite albums with unmatched clarity and realism.  

Digital Interconnect: 

If you use the digital function of your transport, Nordost’s Digital Interconnects are designed to minimize signal loss and distortion. Unlike other digital interconnects on the market, Nordost’s SPDIF and AES/EBU cables faithfully meet all the specs necessary so that you get the resolution, detail, and depth you need.  

USB Cable: 

Nordost’s USB cables ensure that digital audio data is transmitted accurately from your source to your DAC. By reducing jitter and other forms of interference, these cables can result in a cleaner, more dynamic sound with improved resolution and depth.  

Ethernet Cable: 

If you’re using a NAS device, or streaming music online, the quality of our Ethernet cable becomes crucial. Nordost’s Ethernet cables are engineered to deliver high-speed, low-latency data transmission for smoother streaming, faster load times, and a more natural sound.  

Sort Kones: 

To further optimize your listening environment, Nordost’s Sort Kones are the key, isolating and supporting your components as they need. By reducing vibrations and resonance, Sort Kones will allow your DAC to give you more focused, immersive listening sessions. 

The Unsung Hero of Sound Systems: The Importance of High-Quality Audio Cables in Your Sound System

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Picture a passionate music-lover discussing their prized setup. They’ll effusively praise their speakers, amplifier, preamplifier, and source— and rightfully so, every box is an important element of a sound system. But there is a critical component that rarely gets the recognition it deserves. A silent hero: the audio cable.


Before you dismiss the notion of cables as inconsequential, consider the impact of subpar cables: diminished signal integrity, muddled sound, and a collapsed soundstage. In contrast, put high-quality cables in your system and you will be rewarded with enhanced clarity, spatial imaging, and tonal balance. Introducing reputable, well-engineered cables, like Nordost’s, can truly unveil the full potential of your equipment and transform your listening experience from ordinary to extraordinary.


Choosing the right cable involves understanding key design elements like impedance, capacitance, and signal speed. It’s about finding a balance between neutrality and sonic enhancement!


In the pursuit of audio perfection, every element matters. Just as a symphony orchestra requires each instrument to harmonize flawlessly, a sound system relies on meticulously chosen components—including, yes, the humble audio cable—to achieve symphonic brilliance. So, the next time you’re fine-tuning your setup, remember the silent hero that brings it all together: the audio cable.


Still not convinced about the importance of the mighty hifi cable? Get more information HERE! 

Questions and Answers (June 2024)

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Our product specialists receive questions on a daily basis about Nordost products, their applications, and hifi in general.  We decided to take a minute to share some of those questions here so that everyone can get the answers they are looking for!

Q: Do Leif 3 Cables sound good alongside their predecessors? 

A: Nordost’s Leif 3 Cables share the same basic design philosophy as all of our cables, and therefore have a cohesive sonic signature. This ensures Nordost customers that they can use their Leif 3 cables alongside any of Nordost’s previous or current lines of cables and continue to upgrade their cables as needed without drawbacks. 

Q: Are there any sonic differences between the QBASE 15/10amp and a QBASE 20/16amp models? 

A: Yes, because of the difference in construction between the two models, there are slight audible differences. The QBASE 20/16amp version, which uses an IEC C-20 option has both larger traces as well as heavier gauge internal wiring, in order to support higher current. Similar to a power cord, when you use heavier gauge conductors, there will typically be better sonic performance.  

Q: Why do cable companies recommend a minimum power cord length of 2 meters? I have seen this said at Nordost and elsewhere, but I have never understood why. 

A: A huge consideration in cable construction is how the conductor resonates. There are several factors in that equation, but one of them is the conductor length. The resonant properties of materials change, in part, due to the length of the materials. A 2m cable (where the conductors are cut to a 2m length) will resonate in more of a broad-banded fashion and sound a bit smoother than a 1m. 

Q: Because of space constraints on my audio rack, I am thinking about stacking some components. Can I place a QX4 unit on top of a QKORE that is supported by Sort Kones? 

A: Technically you can stack units that are on Sort Kones, as long as the weight of the combined units is under the recommended weight (each Sort Kone can support 100lbs). However, it isn’t recommended. You should try to avoid stacking components on top of one another while using Sort Kones, because it will minimize the effect of the Sort Kones.