I am considering upgrading my audio setup, which currently consists of a Naim Uniti Star paired with Focal Aria 926 speakers. Specifically, I’m thinking about adding a Nordost QB4 Mark III to the system, which would cost approximately €1,200.
Additionally, I am unsure which power cord would be the best complement so I would greatly appreciate any recommendations on that front as well.
Before proceeding, I wanted to ask if you believe this investment would truly enhance the performance of my system. Would a this additionr make a noticeable difference in sound quality for my current setup, or would the improvement be minimal? Any insights or suggestions you might have would be very helpful.
You mention the Uniti Star - is this the only item that will use the power block ? If so, then i’d suggest looking out for something like a pre-loved Naim Power-Line instead and plugging that directly into the wall socket.
If you do need to go the power block route, see if you can borrow one first to try and see what you think and whether it’s worth the cost.
I’d also suggest, if you can do this, looking at adding a dedicated mains supply first which may be more beneficial.
Thank you, James. Unfortunately, the system is connected to a power outlet through a power strip, which also connects the turntable. From the same outlet, with another power strip, the television, satellite decoder, soundbar, DVD player, and a lamp are connected. My original idea was to replace the power strip dedicated to the turntable and the Uniti Star with a Nordost QB4, planning to increase the connections with Naim units in the future (I don’t know when). I’m not sure if it’s possible to install another power outlet dedicated to the hi-fi system alongside the existing one.
Assuming you’re in UK I’d ask a qualified electrician to advise and quote you for a dedicated radial spur with 4 unswitched double MK sockets?. As @HungryHalibut suggests it will bring more benefit than any power block and will future proof you in the event of you expanding your system.
Regards,
Lindsay
Edit: I see you’re quoting € which means you’re probably not in UK.
Sorry, I realize now I should have mentioned this earlier, but I live in Italy, and I think it might be relevant for the context of my previous posts. My million dollar question is: how much of an improvement in sound quality can I realistically expect from a new power outlet?
I know the power supply can have an impact, but I’d love to hear your experiences or technical insights on how noticeable this improvement might be considering the cost/benefit ratio (and my wife’s grievances).
Power supply is the most important factor for sound quality, that’s a short answer
Sad truth however is that it is a rabbit hole. I mean the diminishing returns point is quite far away, there’re many upgrades that is possible to implement.
If the question is about a cable, it is a no-brainer, PL is relatively affordable vs what it brings.
Many years ago I tried the Nordost Qb2 with the QKORE grounding box. It did absolutely nothing to improve the sound of my Naim system, so I returned it after trying to hear an improvement for a few weeks. I would not buy blind, it sure looks nice though.
Powerline is a ‘guaranteed’ option for the Naim boxes which gives enough overall improvement and closes this question within a Naim system. This is valuable as actually saves budget, otherwise 1,5k+ per cable are needed for the systems to shine.
Thank you all, so, in summary, Nordost wouldn’t add anything, new dedicated mains would be too costly and the Naim Power-line appears a preferable solution.
Depending on the work involved, dedicated mains could well cost less than a single Naim Powerline, so I wouldn’t rule it out as a cost effective option. Certainly worth considering if it means that you can avoid sharing the circuit with a random selection of other equipment with questionable quality power supplies and lighting on it.
At this point, I think I’ll have to contact some electician and ask for quotes. As second step, I would buy Naim’s Power-line.
All’ this for better sound quality.
I replaced a very good Audioplan Powerstar S power strip with Nordost QBase 4 Mk 4, which improved the sound dramatically. Important: QBase has an earth connection. It must be connected to the amplifier. The amplifier must be in the 2nd slot according to the manual. Only then is improvement certain. My chain: Croft Integrated, Goldnote Ph 10, Technics 1210 GR, Leema Xen Monitors. Cables: Supra Silver Annetversary with Oyaide plugs for AC, Kondo for connections, Tellurium Silver for speakers.
Yes, I was thinking of getting a QBase 4 mk III (has a mark IV been released?). Your comment is appreciated, thank you. I am new at this sort of devices and a bit dubious whether adding the thing would really improve the experience. Which is paramount.
