Nordost QRT QBase Mark III AC Distribution Unit

Nordost QRT QBase Mark III AC Distribution Unit Product Description:

Nordost’s QBASE Mark III is a significant upgrade compared to its previous iteration.

Improvements include:

• Newly designed, dual PC-board configuration
• Increased separation of all ground connections from the line and neutral traces
• Further 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

The QBASE Mark III is an elegant yet simple concept that provides the solid foundation that audio components require in order to create and expand upon any high-performing two-channel system. Nordost’s AC Distribution Unit addresses the noise-inducing, conflicting flows of signal and ground paths within a hifi system by using a unique method called "star-earth topology". 

Star-earth topology connects all outlets from one central point (or outlet) to the input. In the QBASE, we do this while additionally lifting the impedance level on every outlet, except for the one deemed "Primary Earth". Elevating the ground in this passive manner achieves three indispensable effects: it creates an uninterrupted, straight-line AC distribution path from the wall to each individual component, isolates each component by deterring the ground flow between them, and eliminates conflicting flow between signal and ground paths, all without any form of in-line filtering or active circuitry.

QBASE Mark III units are comprised of a mechanically tuned, extruded aluminum body, outfitted with highly durable connectors which have been specifically engineered to maintain excellent connectivity after extended use. The Mark III model features a dual-level PC-board configuration which separates all ground connections from the line and neutral traces, consequently minimizing any interference or crosstalk between live/neutral and ground currents. Additionally, the construction and trace geometry of each PC-board has been vastly optimized to include enhanced trace sizes, further maximizing current flow and crosstalk, and each QBASE Mark III is internally wired with Nordost Mono-Filament wire. Lastly, a resistance “sink” adds protection and more effectively damps eddy currents.

The QBASE Mark III impacts every component connected to it, improving each one in unique ways. The effect it has on a system is all encompassing— enhancing the 3D imaging on the soundstage, pulling out tonal richness and sustained decay time in the music, and imparting a clear increase of power while maintaining a neutral and effortless delivery of the performance.

The QB8 Mark III is also available in a 20 Amp / 16 Amp version that uses heavier gauge internal wiring in addition to being capable of handling more current.

*Want to get your QBase off the floor and more stable? Ask us about Nordost Sort Kones to help mount your QBase, or get it higher off the floor, shelf, or rack. 

Specifications:

Dimensions (HxD):

 

Input:

C-14 IEC (15/10amp)

C-20 IEC (20/16amp) (QB8 and QB6 Only)

 

Output: US, EU (Schuko), Australian or 13A UK