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In defense of quantum products.

There are many audio products that have the word quantum in their name. The brand names Synergistic Research, Bybee and Kemp and Audio Magic come to mind. There are others.

Frankly, some of the explanations for these products are difficult for me to understand. I understand the general theory of quantum physics but when it comes to the details I often find myself getting lost very quickly. Are the explanations offered up by makers of quantum products accurate or not? And does it really matter? Is audio about understanding what manufacturers say or about enjoying the music?

Personally, I am only concerned whether the product works in my system. If the explanation is satisfactory but it does not deliver I could not care less about the theories offered in their defense. Happily, I have been lucky with products from Synergistic Research, Bybee and Audio Magic. I have not used any Kemp products yet.

What have your experiences been with quantum products?
sabai

Showing 2 responses by david12

david12
1,454 posts
 
I first heard the Nordost QX4 at a show demo. During it, cables, supports etc were all changed in stages and made a difference. To me, the QX4 made the biggest difference of them all. They are insanely expensive new and just overpriced, second hand.
I bought 2 in stages less than half price and to my ears absolutely, no question, they made a big difference, the second less than the first, but still better with 2, so they are staying.

I tend to go second hand with tweaks, more likely to not lose on resale if they don't float your boat.
david12
1,454 posts
 
I don't see any resolution to this argument. As so often on Audiogon and other forums, it comes down to one opinion over another. You can legitimately argue as to the scientific validity of a companies claims and I certainly am not qualified to comment on the validity. I have a tenuous, non scientific understanding of Quantum mechanics, string theory etc and I suspect that is true for most of us.

Whether the "science" seems Kosher, is certainly relevant to whether it works or not, but not a deal breaker. I believe the Nordost QB4 works in my system and 2 works better than one. To my ears, the benefit is instantly recognisable and worth the cost. The cost to me was half price, second hand. I think it worth that, not the current full price, which seems far to high for the material content of the product. You can argue I am fooling myself, but it's all rather futile. The only way is to get a loaner or by second hand, so you can sell on, hopefully at no loss and try yourself
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