Independent, expert-written guides on Hi-Fi cables, system setup, and getting the most from your audio investment — written by our in-house specialists since 2005.
The Nordost Leif 3 range, including power cords, speaker cables, and interconnects, redefines sonic clarity and precision. Designed for high-end systems, Leif 3 features advanced materials like solid silver-plated OFC and Nordost’s signature ribbon structure for low capacitance and reduced resonance. In testing, the Red Dawn cables impressed with their dynamic, delicate handling of music, while the Blue Heaven and Purple Flare offered distinct sonic traits. The QBASE MkIII distribution unit further enhanced performance by optimising grounding. Nordost’s Leif 3 range prioritises signal integrity, making it ideal for audiophiles seeking a natural, uncoloured sound in their setups.
The PowerHAUS S6 by Chord Company is a high-end, 6-way power block, distinct for its lack of series filtering and electronic noise-inducing components, ensuring a clean, dynamic performance from hi-fi systems. It employs parallel ARAY technology and features a robust aluminium casing for electrical isolation and reduced microphonic interference. Internally, it boasts high-quality cable shielding and conductors and a unique wiring arrangement with parallel bus bars to minimise electronic noise. The PowerHAUS S6’s advanced design and technology make it an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking to elevate their sound experience without compromising on build quality or audio fidelity.
The Merlin Tarantula power cable, upgraded with a Quantum Science Audio Black fuse, enhances audio systems, offering a clearer and more dynamic sound than standard cables and rivals. Its straightforward design belies a performance that rivals heavier, stiffer competitors, ensuring a cleaner power supply and improved acoustic experience, marking a substantial step up for hi-fi enthusiasts.
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) offers a mysterious yet impactful range of audio-enhancing products, such as Power Jitters, IEC Jitters, and XLR Jitters. These are said to improve audio quality significantly, although the exact technology, dubbed "Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology" (MMMAT), is kept secret. Testing with Olivia Dean's "No Man" revealed a "veil lifted from the music," with each added component enhancing the audio experience. The effects are most prominent when applied earlier in the audio chain and seem to especially benefit power amps. Removing these components brought back noticeable noise, validating their efficacy. Prices are a reflection of QSA’s enigmatic treatment time.
A great place to start your cable upgrades is with power cables. By introducing a good quality power cable from the wall socket to a power block, there can be a noticed increase in performance of all equipment powered by that block. With even more power cables added to each and every socket, there can be a more complete cleaner set-up which can be noticed almost immediately. Here are our top picks when it comes to power cables: (Continue reading...)
Mains Power Blocks are a great addition to any electrical equipment connected up within your house. The power you receive and travel around your houses nowadays are not of the same quality as in the past and with higher energy requirements now, this power is spread thinly affecting the performance of certain products, e.g. Hifi and TVs. There are however products that can clean, condition and isolate the power that you do use. (Continue reading...)
Stevyn Durham
8 January 2025
9 min
