Looking back across this listening, both the close comparisons and the longer term experience, it really is a case of finite differences. That the Nordost cables and QB8 work so well together should come as no surprise. Nordost products have ever been cumulative in their musical affect. To that end, arguably the Chord is the better all-rounder, while the fact that it serves as a perfectly viable alternative to the previously all-conquering QB8 is as welcome as it is impressive. Speaking personally, I love the PowerHAUS’s solid construction and physical stability, its ease of use and the solid, planted purity of its sound. It makes me wonder all over again about the congruence between a product’s physical nature and its musical performance. Ultimate choice may well come down to your own musical preferences and the value of the two extra sockets provided by the QB8. Do you favour excitement or refinement, immediacy and expressive impact or a more considered, balanced and even-handed perspective? Well, there’s finally a new game in town, meaning that now you can take your pick. Chord’s PowerHAUS M6 may have been a long time coming, but as I suggested earlier, it has been well worth the wait.
Chord PowerHAUS M6 £2,000 (inc. sales tax)
Chord PowerHAUS S6 £1,000 (inc. sales tax)
The Chord Co.
Amesbury, Wilts, United Kingdom
