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Nordost Power Cords - Versions and Combinations

Hello everyone. I have been using Nordost power cords since 2014 in my three tube and solid state systems and two HT systems. I would like to know what you think. They are my favorites, but here are two things I've noticed since using them:

1) I own several models, old and new: including 5 Red Dawn, 4 Heimdall2, 4 Brahma, 6 Valhalla V1, 1 Tyr V2, 2 Valhalla V2. However, except the Valhalla V2 which is exceptional, I prefer first versions: Faster, more detailed, sharper attack and more in the music movement. I have the impression that the Heimdall2, for example, is neutral, but a bit muddy and very round in the top-end compared to the first version power cords. What do you think?

2) To take full advantage of Nordost power cords, contrary to what Nordost claims, I think they should be combined with braided copper brands, preferably at distributors / conditionners (eg. QB8 or the Denali) entries. For example: Shunyata King Cobra, Audio Sensibility Statement, Triodes Labs Obsession or Bis Audio AC 20. Because, as many complain, Nordost cables are relatively flat, except for the top-end which is still quite smooth, typical of monofilament. I assume the braided cord fills a slight gap which is located in the mid-bass area. IMO, the important thing is not to combine them too much in order to preserve the speed
provided by Nordost. Have you ever experienced the same?

vinci92
vinci92 OP
19 posts
 

Thank you for sharing your experiences and information and for continuing to do so. I realize that I am not the only one to keep the door open to old models. 

And I agree that it’s all room and system dependent, although in my case the same constant comes up in two different residences, not including my desk at my workplace.
 
For instance, I’m so glad I recently added three used Valhalla V1 to my main HT (on the processor and my two main sources), adding precision in the dialogue and a lot of punch. In addition to the QB8 and QB4, I had added an Isotek Titan to push my Bryston 6BSST2, but adding these Valhalla V1 was ultimately even more effective than adding the conditioner. 

What I like is that the first versions can be easily found today between 40 and 45% of their original price, which is already interesting considering inflation. 

Still, I never sold my Heimdall 2. I did exactly what agisthos did: They have been on digital sources, wich sounded too clear at the office and in my secondary HT. Into this secondary HT system, the Red Dawn amplifies my central which I found to be too focused on the highs (Paradigm Prestige 55c) and no other cable could have created this perfect match. In short, I don’t want to denigrate the new versions. I have also had Valhalla V2 for a few months in my main music system (Pathos / Lumin X1 / Scalla Utopia) and I admit that the Valhalla V1 has nothing to do with it; Nor does the new equivalent Tyr 2 for that matter 😉
 

agisthos
504 posts
 

I while back in an interview with the Nordost founder he claimed a single Odin power cable feeding Blue Heaven on components will out perform an all Valhalla system, the wall power cable being so important.

I don't know how true that is, never having had such a high level Nordost cable to experiment with.

vasileszubyk
3 posts
 

I want to ask for an opinion on the use of Nordost for a digital source, in the specific case of Auralik Vega G2 (Fuse:Synergistic Research - Purple)Synergistic ResearchSynergistic Research. This cable will be connected to the PS-IRS9000 power supply, which in turn is connected to the Voodo-Tesla from the wall.
Cable requirement: add maximum resolution and air without losing sound density and bass.
Will it be Nordost, after power supply? What do you recommend which model to take from Nordost, or Nordost is not the most suitable for a digital source and my cable requirements

Thanks

vinci92 OP
19 posts
 

I feed most of my digital sources with Nordost first versions and I highly recommend Brahma PC: Wonderful mid bass, very articulate, detailed top end and very, very dynamic. Never shrill or garish. That said, Valhalla V1 is also absolutely exceptional. You may eventually find a 2m Brahma for 800 or 850$ or a Valhalla V1 for 1300 or 1400$.

Btw, I know Nordost claims the wall PC should be the highest in range, but the one directly connected to my most important component was the most decisive in all my systems and rooms. It's about experimenting with configuration and combinations in order to get the best out of it.

vasileszubyk
3 posts
 

 

Thanks for the advice.  Now these Nordosds are not available for marketing, but there are Nordost Frey 2 ($1200) How will it show itself on a digital source?  What will be better?

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