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Review: Nordost Quattro-fil RCA Interconnect

Category: Cables

I used the Quattro-fil to connect my Copland CD player to my preamp, working under the theory that you use your best cable first, missing information not being replaceable. After inserting the cable into the system I played a variety of familiar recordings to try and get a fix. There definitely seemed to be a bit more air and space around instruments, and transparency increased. However the most noticeable improvement was in instumental timbres, unamplified instruments seemed more real. Listening to The Pizza Tapes, a great sounding HDCD featuring Jerry Garcia, David Grisman, and Tony Rice, it was much easier to ascertain the tonal differences between the two guitars. Vocals were also eerily present with a real sensation of the singers upper body, not just their voice. All in all, a topflight cable particularly if you prize transparency over warmth. My system is already a bit on the warm side so this increase in information was welcome. Also, these cables seem to be popping up quite a bit on the used market now, I guess everyone is switching to Valhalla's, so good deals are to be had. That's how I found mine.

Associated gear
Copland CDA 289
Air Tight ATC1 Pre
c-j Premiere 11A Power
Sonus Faber Grand Piano's (Original)

Similar products
Stealth CWS Signature, Wasatch Cable Works RCA105
128x128jond

Showing 1 response by jbatlanta

jbatlanta
97 posts
 
I'd like to add to this discussion as I have just replaced AP Crystal Oval with Nordost Quattro-fil on the run from turntable to pre-amp.

Better clarity is very evident, as well as more highs. Perhaps the most surprisingly and enjoyable benefit was the more evident 'timbre' of the notes....especially bass notes (as also mentioned by Jond). Stand-up bass on Norah Jones' LP for example, is very life-like and real.

That said, I've also added Nordost Valhalla to my Linn Ikemi CD player, and must say the Valhalla is even more open, airy, and I am getting waaaay more clarity and range in the upper end (perhaps CD vs. Turntable/cartridge diff?)
So, if you like Quattro-fil, you'll love Valhalla. The best I have ever heard. Magical. Expensive. Worth it.
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