I agree with Dubya, I own both and find the NBS more open, more air, a better presents. That's not to say the Whale isn't an excellant cord, it may have a better bass. The NBS is on my SCD-1 and the Whale on my amp. The NBS is a perfect cord for the SCD-1, the whale is the best match I've found for my amp. As always you really need to try them on your system. J.D.