


About The Nordost QBASE Mark III AC Distribution Unit
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 hi-fi 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, Nordost 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 aluminium 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 Nordost QBASE Mark III builds on the considerable strengths of the units that went before it, bringing significant benefits to timing and the resolution of fine but musically important detail.” Steve Dickinson, Hi-Fi+
"[The QBASE Mark III] is restorative, bringing to light low-level details and mirco-dynamic shifts that have been obscured. The sonic results make themselves known immediately and consistently." Neil Gader, The Absolute Sound
Our Review
The Nordost QBASE Mark III is one of those rare additions to a system that instantly makes everything feel more grounded - literally and musically. It’s a deceptively simple-looking unit that quietly works wonders by straightening out the mess of signal and ground noise that often goes unnoticed but always affects the sound. Thanks to its clever star-earth topology and passive grounding technique, the QBASE Mark III gives each component in your system a clearer, cleaner path to power, avoiding the usual crosstalk and interference. The result? Better timing, more depth in the soundstage, and a noticeable lift in detail and dynamic expression, all delivered with an easy, unforced flow. It’s beautifully built too, with a sturdy aluminium chassis and Nordost’s own Mono-Filament wiring inside, so you know it’s made to last. Plug it in and the improvements aren’t subtle - they’re system-wide.
Main Features & Specifications
- Design: AC Distribution Unit for your Hi-Fi or Cinema System
- QB4 4 Outlet or QB8 8 Outlet Design
- 10 Amp or 16 Amp Options Available
- Focused Star Ground for Superior Sonic Performance
- No In-Line Filtering or Active Circuitry keeps the Lowest Possible AC Supply Impedance
- Primary Earth Grounding
- Optimized Multi-Level PC-Board Configuration to Further Minimize Interference, Maximize Current Flow, and More
- External Ground Post for Connection to Separate Clean ground
- Dedicated Fuse
- Supplied with One Replacement Fuse
- Dimensions (WxHxD)
- QB4: 234 x 67 x 120mm
- QB8: 460 x 67 x 120mm
- Input
- 10 Amp: IEC C14
- 16 Amp: IEC C20
- Output: Australian 3 Pin
- Fuse: Yes (Supplied with One Replacement Fuse)
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: 5 Years
Note: Features & Specifications Subject To Change Without Notice. E&OE.
