Quantum Science Audio (QSA) Red High-Level UK Mains Fuse - 3A, 5A & 13 Amp
Connection Guide
UK 3 Pin Mains
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Item code: QSA Red UK
Inc. VAT (20%) · Ex. VAT: £1,166.67 Ex. VAT · Inc. VAT (20%):
Lowest price in the last 30 days:
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If you've seen a better offer for this product, we will endeavour to match it. The competing offer must be on brand-new boxed items, and in stock from another UK Online Authorised Retailer (excluding marketplaces). Price match quotations are valid for 7 days.
SPEAKER CABLES:
A quantity of 2 means you will receive a pair of speaker cables e.g. for your front left and front right speakers. By entering a quantity of 1, you will get a cable for a single speaker e.g. centre speaker and this option also enables you to vary the length (and termination) of your cable for each speaker.
OTHER CABLES:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive a single cable in the case of aerial, satellite, subwoofer, digital coaxial & optical cables and a pair of cables in the case of 2 rca to 2 rca analogue audio cables.
NON-CABLE PRODUCTS:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive 1 of the specified products.
Order before 4pm (Mon–Fri) for same-day dispatch
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) Red High-Level UK Mains Fuse
Future Shop is very excited to introduce Quantum Science Audio, the undisputed heavyweights in the audiophile fuse space. With more than 22 years of research into what they call 'Bottle Neck Distortion', QSA products can remarkably enhance your enjoyment of your system for such a small component, until recently considered irrelevant by many in the industry. Since all current that enters a power cable or component in your system must pass through the fuse before it proceeds, the fuse's quality or lack thereof can drastically affect your system's performance. QSA fuses aim to reduce the negative effects of what QSA describe as 'bottlenecking', which can help your system perform to its full potential.
Much of this may sound outrageous, but only to those who have not heard it for themselves. Having conducted our own listening tests and based on external feedback, we are convinced that these fuses- all the way through the range- offer an upgrade to a system that can match components many times the price.
The RED Hi-End fuse is designed for high-voltage applications and is tailored for high-end audio systems. It focuses on delivering a refined and pristine audio experience with an emphasis on minimising distortion.
The next one up in the range is the BLACK and RED Hi End: This fuse combines elements of the BLACK and RED fuses aimed at offering the best of both worlds. It is engineered for those seeking high-end audio enhancements, potentially offering improved sound clarity and dynamic range.
Each fuse in the QSA lineup is unique, catering to different preferences and audio systems. Ranging from entry-level to high-fidelity enhancements, these fuses are developed with the goal of enhancing the listening experience. However, the impact of these fuses on audio quality can be subjective and may vary based on individual systems and preferences. Users are encouraged to personally evaluate their performance.
|
"I can tell you this: many high-end audio tweaks I've heard sound great, but none have matched the QSA's remarkable performance. I repeat, none." (Read More...) Product Review - Clement Perry, Stereotimes - Most Wanted Components 2020, 2021 & Publisher's Choice 2021, 2022
|
Please note: fuses are directional, so please ensure you install your fuse accordingly. If you are unsure of the correct direction, simply try it both ways. You should hear a difference.
About Quantum Science Audio (QSA)
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) is a company that focuses on designing and manufacturing high-end audio equipment and accessories. QSA is committed to incorporating advanced technologies and scientific principles into its audio products. It aims to push the boundaries of audio reproduction by applying concepts from quantum physics and other scientific disciplines. QSA believe that by harnessing the power of quantum science, they can create audio systems that deliver exceptional performance and fidelity. The company's product lineup typically includes a range of audio accessories. These products are designed with attention to detail and often feature innovative engineering techniques and materials.QSA's focus on incorporating quantum science into their audio solutions sets them apart from more traditional audio manufacturers. They aim to provide audiophiles and music enthusiasts with a unique listening experience beyond conventional audio reproduction.
QSA specialises in manufacturing QSA home audio fuses. QSA Home Audio Fuses are designed to enhance your audio setup by potentially reducing the noise floor in your system. The range consists of 9 different fuses, each offering a unique level of performance enhancement. The entry-level black fuse serves as a starting point, while the gold fuse, positioned at the top end of the range, is claimed to deliver notable improvements to the noise floor. The listening experience is subjective, and individuals are encouraged to audition the fuses themselves to assess the impact on their audio system. QSA fuses aim to minimise bottle-neck distortions, potentially resulting in a quieter background that allows the music to emerge with improved dynamics and liveliness.
QSA products incorporate Quantum Science Audio's proprietary technologies, including Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology (MMMAT) and Metal Active Technology (MAT). These technologies aim to promote efficient electron flow and enhanced conductivity within the products.
It is important to note that individual experiences and results may vary when using audio fuses, and personal preferences play a significant role in evaluating their impact on audio systems.
QSA takes pride in its team of audiophile engineers who strive to design top-of-the-line audio products. The company aims to deliver natural sounds, rhythms, and music that resonate with listeners deeply and emotionally. With their groundbreaking science and technology, QSA accessories offer a new generation of audio enhancement, allowing users to experience greater detail and clarity in their audio playback. Quantum Science Audio products are designed to provide audiophiles with a transformative audio experience, uncovering new depths and nuances in their favourite music.
About Quantum Science Audio
Maker of audio fuses in a colour-coded range, with wall sockets and power conditioning devices alongside.
Quantum Science Audio, known as QSA, makes fuses for audio equipment and power cables. The fuses are colour coded, from the Black and Blue series up through Yellow, Purple and Red, and the colour shows where a fuse sits in the range. QSA also makes wall sockets and power conditioning devices called Jitters.
Read more about QSA Show less
A colour for each level of the range
The range runs Black, Blue, Yellow, Purple, Red and Red/Black. Price rises with the colour, so the Black fuse is the entry point and the Red/Black is the top of the range. You can start at the lower end and move up, one component at a time.
The maker's description of the technology
QSA says its fuses use Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology and Metal Active Technology, with a graphene mix, to remove what it calls bottleneck distortions. These are QSA's own descriptions of what the design is intended to do, not independent measurements.
Fuses are installed with a direction
QSA fuses carry arrows to show installation direction, and the maker recommends pointing the arrows inward, towards the component. Fuses come in sizes for different equipment, including mini fuses 20mm long that are used in amplifiers, so check the size your equipment needs before you order.
Why we stock QSA
QSA came in alongside Synergistic Research to give you a choice in fuses rather than a single option, and they span a wider spread of prices at both ends. Fuses are a contested subject and we will not pretend otherwise. What we can tell you is that the customers who fit them keep ordering more.
We use Royal Mail 1st Class services for our Standard Delivery.
Orders received before 4.30 pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. This does not apply to custom-length cables and speaker cables as these require a longer timescale to terminate. This also excludes all cables selected for the burn-in service. Please note, we do not process orders on national holidays in the UK. Over 98% of our orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays. In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Future Shop. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD Local or DHL for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order subject to stock availability. For international orders, we use FedEx or DHL services where customers have selected this option.
Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths may be subject to longer deliver time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at Future Shop
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
UK Postal & Delivery Charges - FIRST CLASS
Free UK delivery on all orders over £99*
| Weight | Price (FIRST CLASS UK POSTAGE) |
| 0g - 1000g | £3.95 |
| 1000g - 1400g | £4.95 |
| 1400g - 1800g | £5.95 |
| 1800g - 2000g | £6.95 |
| 2000g - 3000g | £8.95 |
* Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL.
Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are not subject to 20% VAT after December 31st 2020 and therefore the 20% VAT on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
The customer will be liable for the VAT at the local VAT rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee if applicable. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7-10 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the UK are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
If applicable, the customer will be liable for the taxes at the local tax rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7 to 10 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability
- Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets at our discretion
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) Red High-Level UK Mains Fuse
Future Shop is very excited to introduce Quantum Science Audio, the undisputed heavyweights in the audiophile fuse space. With more than 22 years of research into what they call 'Bottle Neck Distortion', QSA products can remarkably enhance your enjoyment of your system for such a small component, until recently considered irrelevant by many in the industry. Since all current that enters a power cable or component in your system must pass through the fuse before it proceeds, the fuse's quality or lack thereof can drastically affect your system's performance. QSA fuses aim to reduce the negative effects of what QSA describe as 'bottlenecking', which can help your system perform to its full potential.
Much of this may sound outrageous, but only to those who have not heard it for themselves. Having conducted our own listening tests and based on external feedback, we are convinced that these fuses- all the way through the range- offer an upgrade to a system that can match components many times the price.
The RED Hi-End fuse is designed for high-voltage applications and is tailored for high-end audio systems. It focuses on delivering a refined and pristine audio experience with an emphasis on minimising distortion.
The next one up in the range is the BLACK and RED Hi End: This fuse combines elements of the BLACK and RED fuses aimed at offering the best of both worlds. It is engineered for those seeking high-end audio enhancements, potentially offering improved sound clarity and dynamic range.
Each fuse in the QSA lineup is unique, catering to different preferences and audio systems. Ranging from entry-level to high-fidelity enhancements, these fuses are developed with the goal of enhancing the listening experience. However, the impact of these fuses on audio quality can be subjective and may vary based on individual systems and preferences. Users are encouraged to personally evaluate their performance.
|
"I can tell you this: many high-end audio tweaks I've heard sound great, but none have matched the QSA's remarkable performance. I repeat, none." (Read More...) Product Review - Clement Perry, Stereotimes - Most Wanted Components 2020, 2021 & Publisher's Choice 2021, 2022
|
Please note: fuses are directional, so please ensure you install your fuse accordingly. If you are unsure of the correct direction, simply try it both ways. You should hear a difference.
About Quantum Science Audio (QSA)
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) is a company that focuses on designing and manufacturing high-end audio equipment and accessories. QSA is committed to incorporating advanced technologies and scientific principles into its audio products. It aims to push the boundaries of audio reproduction by applying concepts from quantum physics and other scientific disciplines. QSA believe that by harnessing the power of quantum science, they can create audio systems that deliver exceptional performance and fidelity. The company's product lineup typically includes a range of audio accessories. These products are designed with attention to detail and often feature innovative engineering techniques and materials.QSA's focus on incorporating quantum science into their audio solutions sets them apart from more traditional audio manufacturers. They aim to provide audiophiles and music enthusiasts with a unique listening experience beyond conventional audio reproduction.
QSA specialises in manufacturing QSA home audio fuses. QSA Home Audio Fuses are designed to enhance your audio setup by potentially reducing the noise floor in your system. The range consists of 9 different fuses, each offering a unique level of performance enhancement. The entry-level black fuse serves as a starting point, while the gold fuse, positioned at the top end of the range, is claimed to deliver notable improvements to the noise floor. The listening experience is subjective, and individuals are encouraged to audition the fuses themselves to assess the impact on their audio system. QSA fuses aim to minimise bottle-neck distortions, potentially resulting in a quieter background that allows the music to emerge with improved dynamics and liveliness.
QSA products incorporate Quantum Science Audio's proprietary technologies, including Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology (MMMAT) and Metal Active Technology (MAT). These technologies aim to promote efficient electron flow and enhanced conductivity within the products.
It is important to note that individual experiences and results may vary when using audio fuses, and personal preferences play a significant role in evaluating their impact on audio systems.
QSA takes pride in its team of audiophile engineers who strive to design top-of-the-line audio products. The company aims to deliver natural sounds, rhythms, and music that resonate with listeners deeply and emotionally. With their groundbreaking science and technology, QSA accessories offer a new generation of audio enhancement, allowing users to experience greater detail and clarity in their audio playback. Quantum Science Audio products are designed to provide audiophiles with a transformative audio experience, uncovering new depths and nuances in their favourite music.
About Quantum Science Audio
Maker of audio fuses in a colour-coded range, with wall sockets and power conditioning devices alongside.
Quantum Science Audio, known as QSA, makes fuses for audio equipment and power cables. The fuses are colour coded, from the Black and Blue series up through Yellow, Purple and Red, and the colour shows where a fuse sits in the range. QSA also makes wall sockets and power conditioning devices called Jitters.
Read more about QSA Show less
A colour for each level of the range
The range runs Black, Blue, Yellow, Purple, Red and Red/Black. Price rises with the colour, so the Black fuse is the entry point and the Red/Black is the top of the range. You can start at the lower end and move up, one component at a time.
The maker's description of the technology
QSA says its fuses use Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology and Metal Active Technology, with a graphene mix, to remove what it calls bottleneck distortions. These are QSA's own descriptions of what the design is intended to do, not independent measurements.
Fuses are installed with a direction
QSA fuses carry arrows to show installation direction, and the maker recommends pointing the arrows inward, towards the component. Fuses come in sizes for different equipment, including mini fuses 20mm long that are used in amplifiers, so check the size your equipment needs before you order.
Why we stock QSA
QSA came in alongside Synergistic Research to give you a choice in fuses rather than a single option, and they span a wider spread of prices at both ends. Fuses are a contested subject and we will not pretend otherwise. What we can tell you is that the customers who fit them keep ordering more.
We use Royal Mail 1st Class services for our Standard Delivery.
Orders received before 4.30 pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. This does not apply to custom-length cables and speaker cables as these require a longer timescale to terminate. This also excludes all cables selected for the burn-in service. Please note, we do not process orders on national holidays in the UK. Over 98% of our orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays. In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Future Shop. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD Local or DHL for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order subject to stock availability. For international orders, we use FedEx or DHL services where customers have selected this option.
Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths may be subject to longer deliver time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at Future Shop
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
UK Postal & Delivery Charges - FIRST CLASS
Free UK delivery on all orders over £99*
| Weight | Price (FIRST CLASS UK POSTAGE) |
| 0g - 1000g | £3.95 |
| 1000g - 1400g | £4.95 |
| 1400g - 1800g | £5.95 |
| 1800g - 2000g | £6.95 |
| 2000g - 3000g | £8.95 |
* Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL.
Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are not subject to 20% VAT after December 31st 2020 and therefore the 20% VAT on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
The customer will be liable for the VAT at the local VAT rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee if applicable. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7-10 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the UK are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
If applicable, the customer will be liable for the taxes at the local tax rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7 to 10 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability
- Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets at our discretion
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Write Your Own Review
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) Red High-Level UK Mains Fuse - 3A, 5A & 13 Amp
We are interested in your opinion of this product. let us and other customers know how you feel by filling in the comment field below. Your review will appear in this section within 3 working days.
Please do:
- - Write 50-300 words for the product
- - Comment on the products value and effectiveness
- - Tell us if you like the product, but most importantly explain why you like or dislike it
- - Mention related products and how this one rates by comparison
Customers consistently report substantial improvements in sound quality after upgrading to the QSA Red fuse, particularly when replacing violet fuses in amplifiers and DACs. Praised benefits include enhanced detail, expanded soundstage, improved instrument separation, and better bass dynamics, though opinions diverge on tonal character—some find it sweeter and less fatiguing, while others note increased harshness or excessive brightness. Users emphasize that results vary significantly by system and placement, with greatest improvements noted in main power plugs rather than IEC drawers. One reviewer expressed skepticism about attribution and power supply concerns. Customer service from the retailer receives consistent praise for responsiveness and return guarantees. A recurring concern is whether the substantial price justifies the improvements, though most reviewers believe the sonic gains exceed those from costlier cables and components.
So, after living with the red for several weeks and alternating it between the H390 and my Gustard R30, I'm pretty certain I prefer the red feeding my R30. The tone is sweeter, the mid-range more dynamic to the point it actually shimmers. True, with it in the H390 there is a touch more detail, but also some fatiguing harshness - and less musical.
Clearly we all have different subjective takes on music, and very different systems. The moral of my story, it would transpire, is to prioritise the source - probably one of the oldest adages in hi-fi, one I remember reading back in the 1980s when the rule was to spend half the budget on the turntable.
I already have a fairly extensive QSA portfolio. My Hegel H390 amp and Gustard R30 DAC are both fed from a QSA red wall plate (well worth the money, btw) – both have violet 13A fuses in Furutech plugs, with decent cabling. Both have yellow QSA fuses in their IEC fuse drawers. I also have light blue in my digital components’ plugs.
My experience after playing around with this QSA “estate” is that I never heard much benefit adding QSA to my purely digital components (clock, regen, streamer etc), nor much from the smaller IEC fuse drawer fuses. Where I had previously witnessed huge uplifts in sound quality were from the wall plate, and the violet 13A fuses. So, to the new red 13A fuse…
I decided to skip the orange, and jump from violet to red. I kind of hoped my system had improved as far as it could with QSA and that I’d be returning the red for a full refund…..how wrong I was. Putting it into the Hegel’s plug immediately revealed a staggering uplift in sound quality. I thought my recent upgrade from Gustard R26 to R30 was a big jump: upgrading to the red is at least comparable a jump - probably greater. Every aspect of sound quality has been improved, though detail is the biggest area of improvement, so much so in fact that it’s almost now too “hifi”. Where previously I had been worrying my system was getting a little too soft and warm in tone, I’m now a little concerned it might now be too dynamic. It’s astonishing how a fuse change can manifest itself so dramatically. The H390 already has a well-earned reputation for noise cancellation with its SoundEngine technology, but clearly like all hifi it's dependent on the quality of the electricity delivered to it.
I’m still adjusting to this dramatic shift, and I’m curious to see how my R30 responds when I put the red into its plug – but that will clearly mean reverting the H390 to violet.
The soundstage widened and deepened. Instruments and vocals were more clearly separated. I heard things on recordings that I knew well that were previously hidden. Bass dynamics were much improved.
Many thanks to Mark for his help and advice.
I ordered the fuse on Monday, and it arrived the next day. I put it into the power lead supplying my PS Audio BHK preamp. Within the first few bars of a familiar track, I was absolutely lost for words. Dumbfounded. It was as if I had swapped the pre for a far superior product. In fact, if you told me that I was listening to a new preamp at twice the price of mine, I would not have been surprised. I was hooked!
By Friday, I had upgraded the red in my preamp to a red/black and installed QSA fuses in every piece of my system. What I am hearing now is really difficult for me to attribute to half a dozen tiny fuses, but it is real. I would urge anybody with a passion for music to give them a try.
The improvement they bring is really right across the board, top to bottom. For me one of the most enjoyable gains is in the pure realism that my system now conveys. It feels like I could get up from my listening chair and walk among the performers. I know it's difficult to reconcile the crazy prices with value for money for such tiny, insignificant little fuses, but in my opinion, it's impossible to put a value on the gains that they can make. I have spent heaps more on cables, interconnects, power cords etc. and have not achieved anything like the improvement these little suckers can bring!
Seriously, they are that good.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Write Your Own Review
Quantum Science Audio (QSA) Red High-Level UK Mains Fuse - 3A, 5A & 13 Amp
We are interested in your opinion of this product. let us and other customers know how you feel by filling in the comment field below. Your review will appear in this section within 3 working days.
Please do:
- - Write 50-300 words for the product
- - Comment on the products value and effectiveness
- - Tell us if you like the product, but most importantly explain why you like or dislike it
- - Mention related products and how this one rates by comparison
