Nordost QBase Mark III (QB4) AC Distribution Unit

This product can only be shipped to U.S. addresses.

This product DOES NOT come with a power cable. Click here to browse all Nordost power cords.

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, this is done 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 that have been specifically engineered to maintain excellent connectivity after extended use. The Mark III model features a dual-level PC-board configuration that 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 QBASE Mark III] is restorative, bringing to light low-level details and micro-dynamic shifts that have been obscured. The sonic results make themselves known immediately and consistently.

So, here we have that happy occasion when the product under review performed beyond expectations and is a genuine bargain to boot…The QBASE is as neutral as the day is long, in the optimal sense of the word. Delightfully free of any sonic signature and so even-handed, you'll be hard pressed to discern it imposing anything additive on the sound.