AudioQuest NIAGARA 5000UK User manual

Owner’s Manual
NIAGARA 5000UK
Low-Z Power
|
Noise-Dissipation System

2
Niagara 5000UK Features 4
Introduction 4
Installation 6
Unpacking 6
Safety Information/Warnings 6
Servicing/Return to AudioQuest 6
Power Source 6
Placement 7
Connection to Audio/Video Components 7
AC Cable Routing 7
High Current/Low-Z Power Banks 8
Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation System Power Banks 8
Suggested AC Connections 10
Operation and Continuous Use 12
Power Switch/Circuit Breaker and LED Power Indicator 12
Rear-Panel Power Correction Switch/Niagara 5000UK Current Draw 12
Extreme Voltage Indicator 13
Break-in Time/Continuous Use 13
Specications 14
Trouble-Shooting Guide 15
Warranty 18

3
Niagara 5000UK Features
¡Transient Power Correction provides power ampliers a current reservoir of over 90 amps peak
(up to 25mS)
¡Patented Ground-Noise Dissipation System yields lower distortion and greater resolution from
audio, video, and digital components with grounded AC cords/circuits
¡Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation Technology: More than 23 octaves dierential-mode
ltering (3kHz-1GHz in excess of 24dB reduction) and 16 octaves common-mode ltering (20kHz-
100MHz in excess of 30dB reduction) with linear response, optimized for varying line and load
impedance
¡11 Low-Z NRG Series AC Power outlets: 3 High-Current Low-Z Power; 8 Level-X Ultra-Linear
Filtered Power (source components) Outlets feature thick direct-silver plating over beryllium
copper. This assures the most ecient dissipation of induced radio frequency noise possible.
Introduction
The science of AC power is not simple; it demands focus, and the devil is in the details. In fact, the mammoth
increase in airborne and AC-line-transmitted radio signals, combined with overtaxed utility lines and the ever-
increasing demands from high-denition audio/video components, has rendered our utilities’ AC power an
antiquated technology.
Where Alternating Current (AC) is concerned, we’re relying on a century-old technology created for incandescent
lights and electric motors—technology that was certainly never meant to power the sophisticated analog and
digital circuits used in premium audio/video systems. To properly accommodate the promise of today’s ever-
increasing bandwidth and dynamic range, we must achieve extraordinarily low noise across a wide range of
frequencies.
Further, today’s power ampliers are being taxed for instantaneous peak-current demand, even when they’re
driven at modest volumes. Although we have seen a substantial increase in both dynamics and bass content from
our audio software, the loudspeakers we employ to reproduce them are no more ecient than they were two
to four decades ago. This places great demands on an amplier’s power supply, as well as the source AC power
supplying it.
Our systems’sensitive components need better alternating current—a fact that has resulted in a host of AC power
conditioning, isolation transformers, regeneration ampliers, and battery back-up system topologies. Through
dierential sample tests and spectrum analysis, it can be proven that up to a third of a high-resolution (low-level)
audio signal can be lost, masked, or highly distorted by the vast levels of noise riding along the AC power lines
that feed our components. This noise couples into the signal circuitry as current noise and through AC ground,
permanently distorting and/or masking the source signal.
All sincere attempts to solve this problem must be applauded since once the audio/video signal is gone, it’s gone
forever...
For AudioQuest, honoring the source is never a matter of simply using premium“audiophile-grade parts”or relying
on a proprietary technology—common approaches used within the audiophile market. For years, we have all
been witness to the same, seemingly endless audiophile debates: Valves versus transistors. Analog versus digital.
Can cables really make a dierence? The debates go on and on. While we, too, can brag about our many unique
technologies, we realize that true audio/video optimization is never a matter of any one secret or exotic circuit.
When it comes to noise dissipation for AC power, many approaches can yield meaningful results. However, they
may also impart ringing, current compression, and non-linear distortions that are worse than the disease.
The Niagara 5000UK uses both our patented AC Ground Noise-Dissipation System and the widest bandwidth-
linearized noise-dissipation circuit in the industry. Our unique passive/active Transient Power Correction Circuit

4
features an instantaneous current reservoir of over 90 amps peak, specically designed for modern current-starved
power ampliers. Most AC power products featuring “high-current outlets”merely minimize current compression;
the Niagara 5000UK corrects it.
Though it’s easy to boast, it’s quite another thing to create a solution that is consistent, holistic, functional, and
that honors veriable science. It’s not enough to reduce AC line noise and its associated distortions at just one
octave, thus leaving vulnerable the adjacent octaves and octave partials to noise, resonant peaking, or insucient
noise reduction. Consistency is key. We should never accept superior resolution in one octave, only to suer from
masking eects a half-octave away and ringing artifacts two octaves from there. This is the principal criterion for
AudioQuest’s Low-Z Power Noise-Dissipation System.
The Niagara 5000UK represents over 20 years of exhaustive research and proven AC power products designed
for audiophiles, broadcast engineers, and professional audio applications. Every conceivable detail has been
addressed: In the Niagara 5000UK, you’ll nd optimized radio-frequency lead directionality; run-in capacitor
forming technologies developed by Jet Propulsion Laboratories and NASA; and AC inlet and outlet contacts with
thick direct silver plating over beryllium copper, assuring superior conductivity and the tightest grip possible.
A great system is built from a solid foundation, and that foundation starts with power. With an AudioQuest Niagara
5000UK, you’ll experience for the rst time the clarity, dimensionality, frequency extension, dynamic contrast, and
grip your system has always been capable of delivering—if only the power had been right!
We welcome you to experience the Niagara 5000UK and hear rsthand the remarkable results of highly optimized
power management: startlingly deep silences, stunning dynamic freedom, outstanding retrieval of ambience
cues, and gorgeous delineation of instruments and musicians in space. Once you’ve experienced it, it may seem
so elegant, so logical, and so fundamental that you nd yourself wondering why it hadn’t been done before.
For a comprehensive discussion on AC power technology, including everything that makes AudioQuest’s Niagara
a more eective AC power solution, please download our“Power Demystied”whitepaper at
https://www.audioquest.com/content/aq/pdf/Power-Demystied-whitepaper-8-23-18.zip
—Garth Powell, Senior Director of Engineering, AudioQuest

5
Installation | Unpacking
Before unpacking your Niagara 5000UK, inspect the carton for any obvious damage to the boxes and internal
protective materials. If internal damage is likely, contact the carrier who delivered the unit. If shipping damage is
evident on the product, then please contact your shipping carrier. Please save all shipping and packing materials.
Should you move or otherwise need to transport your Niagara 5000UK, these packing materials will ensure the
safest transportation.
The double box set should contain the Niagara 5000UK (240V UK-1 13R AC Outlets), two foam inserts, owner’s
manual, Quick-Start Guide, front-panel polishing cloth, rack-mount kit, and warranty registration card.
Registration is recommended. In the event that your original ownership documents are lost, your registration
can be used to establish whether the unit is within the warranty period.
Safety Information | Warnings
Before operating the Niagara 5000UK, please read and observe all safety and operating instructions (or, at the
very least, the Quick-Start Guide). Retain these instructions for future reference.
¡Do not disassemble or in any way modify the Niagara 5000UK. There are no user-serviceable parts
inside.
¡Keep away from moisture and avoid excessive humidity.
¡Do not allow liquids or foreign objects to enter the unit.
Servicing | Return to AudioQuest
Servicing of the Niagara 5000UK must be performed by AudioQuest, and is only required when:
¡The Niagara 5000UK has been exposed to rain, ooding, or extreme moisture.
¡The Niagara 5000UK does not appear to operate normally. (See “Trouble-Shooting Guide.”)
¡The Niagara 5000UK has been dropped and sustained considerable physical damage.
If sending the Niagara 5000UK to AudioQuest for servicing (or shipping it for any reason), please use the factory
approved packaging materials. If you have lost any of these (double carton, two foam inserts, one poly bag),
please contact AudioQuest for replacements. We will provide replacement packaging materials for a nominal
charge; shipping costs will be paid by the individual or company requesting the packaging material. Please do
not rely on other methods of packaging, including those provided or suggested by packaging/mailing stores.
These methods and materials could seriously damage the product, as well as its nish. Even the loss of the thick
polybag is enough to permanently damage the nish during transport. If you have lost the original packaging
material, please request replacement materials from AudioQuest.
Power Source
Ideally, the power source to which the Niagara 5000UK is connected should be adequate for use at 230V to 265V
single phase nominal voltage, 13 amps (current capacity RMS or greater).
For proper operation, the Niagara 5000UK requires a safety ground (supplied via the power utility AC wall outlet).

6
Placement
The Niagara 5000UK is manufactured with four rubber textured polymer feet for safe, secure placement on any
table, cabinet, shelf, or oor. When rack-mounting is required, these feet may be removed with a standard Phillips
screwdriver. The Niagara 5000UK’s design obviates the need for compliant or high-Q isolation feet. Although
many audio/video products benet greatly from these devices, the Niagara 5000UK may not.
Placement or proximity to other components is not critical, and, under standard use, the Niagara 5000UK does
not produce any appreciable heat. The Niagara 5000UK may be rack-mounted in a standard 19”rack by attaching
the optional Niagara Series 3-RU rack ears. To attach the optional rack ears to the Niagara 5000UK chassis, rst
remove the threeTorx athead screws from the front portion of both the left and right sides of the cover assembly.
Next, mount the rack ears ush against the back of the Niagara 5000UK’s front panel. Finally, secure the rack ears
into place by installing the rack-mount kit’s Phillips pan head SEMS screws.
When tight installations do not provide adequate room in a rack, shelf, or cabinet, the Niagara 5000UK can actually
be placed on its side. Such placement will pose no safety or performance compromises, but we recommend
placing a soft towel or carpet under the unit to prevent the chassis and front panel from being scratched or
marred in any way.
Connection to Audio/Video Components
AC Cable Routing
Once the Niagara 5000UK is placed, an appropriate 13- to 16-amp-rated high-current AC cord must be connected
to the rear-panel AC inlet (IEC-C20) connector. The AC cord must have an IEC-C19 female end connector and
a grounded male 240VAC UK-1 13P plug. We highly recommend the use of any AudioQuest 16-amp-rated
Wind Series or High-Current Storm Series AC cable. Because these cables feature conductors that have been
meticulously controlled for proper low-noise directionality, they will ensure the best possible results from the
Niagara 5000UK’s Ground-Noise Dissipation Technology.
When facing the Niagara 5000UK’s rear panel, the IEC-C20 inlet is located on the unit’s lower-left side. The AC
inlet cord must be connected to an appropriate AC outlet (see “Power Source,” page 6).
Whenever possible, it is best to keep at least three inches (approximately 7cm) between AC cables and any signal
cable. When this is not possible in a practical layout of system cabling, crossing the AC cables to signal cables at
90 degrees is best to minimize induced noise.
High-Current | Low-Z Power Banks
There is one High-Current/Low-Z Power bank (labeled AC outlets “1” through “3”). These outlets feature our
Transient Power Correction Technology (90 amps peak - up to 25 mS duration) and are designed to enhance the
performance of power ampliers via our circuit’s low-impedance transient current reservoir. Power ampliers,
monoblock ampliers, integrated ampliers, powered receivers, or powered subwoofers should be connected
to these three outlets. The primary mono, stereo, or multi-channel power amplier(s) should be connected to AC
outlet 1. This enables the standby sense circuit, which requires the current draw of a power amplier connected
to (and only to) outlet 1. In terms of sonic performance, there is no dierence between outlets 1 through 3. If
the standby sense circuit is not utilized, and the sense circuit bypass switch is set to “Enabled,” any of the three
high-current outlets may be utilized.

7
Regardless of class of operation or circuit topology (valve, solid-state, digital, or otherwise), the Transient Power
Correction Circuit will not compress the current of any power amplier. Quite to the contrary, it will improve the
amplier’s performance by supplying the low-impedance current source that the amplier’s power supply so
desperately needs.
However, the other eight AC outlets (Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation System), are not appropriate for power
ampliers. They have been optimized for line-level audio preampliers, DACs, universal players, turntables, and
video products that utilize constant current voltage amplier circuits. These circuits never suer from current
compression, but their lower input level and higher gain require a more robust means of noise dissipation. This
is key to the Niagara 5000UK’s discrete AC power banks, in that not every circuit is treated the same, but rather
isolated bank by bank and optimized for best performance.
Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation System Power Outlets
There are four banks that utilize this technology within the Niagara 5000UK. Both of these are in turn isolated
from the High-Current/Low-Z bank (outlets 1 through 3). This oers a great advantage in controlling the complex
interactions of RF (radio frequency) and other induced noises present in the AC power supplied from your utility,
the noise that will be present on and in every AC cord, and the noise that is produced within your system’s
components and that “backwashes” into the Niagara 5000UK’s output circuits.
Though it would be simple to recommend putting the digital or video components into bank 2, and the line-
level audio components and turntables into banks 3, the quest for optimal performance is more complex. This
scenario will work, and likely work well, but a certain amount of experimentation is best given the fact that no
lter can eliminate 100% of all noise. The size of many of these RF-induced waveforms possess sinewaves as
small as the edge of a piece of paper, and the interactions are complex. So long as the power ampliers are in
their appropriate banks (Outlets 1-3), and the other components are in the remaining four outlet banks (Outlets
4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11), you should experience exemplary performance. Still, for the audiophile with patience, the
reward will be system performance with the highest possible resolution and lowest possible noise.
Again, because each bank is isolated from the next, placing a DAC and/or universal player in one isolated group,
and a preamplier and turntable in another, would be an excellent way to start. For systems that are much larger
and require more outlets, try starting with the most basic setup, then adding one component at a time. The
combination that sounds best (yielding the greatest resolution) is the best one for your system!

8
Suggested AC Connections
1
240 VAC 50Hz POWER CORRECTION
13 AMPS MAXIMUM
32 4 6 8 10
5 7 9 11
STANDBY
ENGAGED
HIGH CURRENT |LOW-Z POWER CORRECTION
13 AMPS RMS MAXIMUM OUTPUT
ULTRA-LINEAR NOISE-DISSIPATION SYSTEM
13 AMPS RMS MAXIMUM OUTPUT
NIAGARA-5000 DESIGNED AND TESTED IN U.S.A.
1
“Engaged”
position must be
default setting.
13-20 Amp
Rated
AC Cord
(IEC C-19)
Note: Outlets 4 through 11 are subject to many variables and circuit conditions; experimentation is
encouraged for best results. Power ampliers must be connected to Outlets 1 through 3.
Stereo
Amplier
Line-Level
Preamp
Phono
Pre-
amplier
Turntable
Flat Screen
Monitor /
Projector
Cable /
Satellite
Box
Universal /
CD Player
DAC
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
SubwooferSubwoofer
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
AC cord orientation: The four source component AC outlets, located at the top right-hand side of
the rear panel, are oriented so that a right-angled UK-13P plug’s cord will dress upwards. All other
outlets dress downward. This was done to maximize the number of AC outlets available when
utilizing the popular right-angled UK plug. Unfortunately, in some environments (for example
top shelf placement), this may appear unsightly. For such applications, we suggest the use of
a straight (non-angled) UK-13P plug. These are available from AudioQuest and are standard on
many of our current range of premium AC cables.

9
“Engaged”
position must be
default setting.
1
240 VAC 50Hz POWER CORRECTION
13 AMPS MAXIMUM
32 4 6 8 10
5 7 9 11
STANDBY
ENGAGED
HIGH CURRENT |LOW-Z POWER CORRECTION
13 AMPS RMS MAXIMUM OUTPUT
ULTRA-LINEAR NOISE-DISSIPATION SYSTEM
13 AMPS RMS MAXIMUM OUTPUT
NIAGARA-5000 DESIGNED AND TESTED IN U.S.A.
2
13-20 Amp
Rated
AC Cord
(IEC C-19)
Note: Outlets 4 through 11 are subject to many variables and circuit conditions; experimentation is
encouraged for best results. Power ampliers must be connected to Outlets 1 through 3.
Monoblock Monoblock Subwoofer Line-Level Preamp
Phono
Pre-
amplier
Turntable Streamer
Universal /
CD Player DAC
Computer
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block
Phono Amp
Cable / Sat Box DAC
Line-Level Pre Amp
Mono Block

10
Operation and Continuous Use
Power Switch | Circuit Breaker and LED Power Indicator
Once the AC cords are properly connected to the AC source tap, and the components are connected to the
appropriate outlet banks, it is safe to energize the Niagara 5000UK. On the right-hand side of the Niagara 5000UK’s
front panel, there is a black rocker switch. Firmly press the rocker switch so that its upper portion is ush with the
front panel. Typically, within a couple of seconds, you should hear an audible “clack” sound(s) from one or more
relays within the Niagara 5000UK. At the same time, the front-panel LED power indictor will glow blue, signifying
that the unit is operational. (If this does not occur, see the “Trouble-Shooting Guide” in this manual.)
Rear-Panel Power Correction Switch | Niagara 5000UK Current Draw
The default position for this switch should always be “Engaged” or “1”—even for applications in which there
are no power ampliers of any kind powered by the Niagara 5000UK. Defaulting to “Engaged”/“1” serves two
functions: It activates the Transient Power Correction Circuit for power ampliers that would be energized by
outlet Bank 1, and also provides a portion of the Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation Circuit for outlets 4
through 11. Although no damage to the Niagara or the connected components will occur, performance will be
compromised when this switch is not set to the “Engaged”/“1” position.
However, there is one exception to this. Niagara 5000UK has an internal current sense circuit that will automatically
engage the Transient Power Correction Circuit, as well as turn it o when your audio/video system is placed in
Standby mode. To utilize this feature, two things must be present:
1. The primary power amplier(s) or powered receiver must be connected to High-Current/Low-Z
Power Correction outlet Bank 1 (as it is the only power bank with the current sense monitoring
for this circuit function).
2. The primary power amplier(s) or powered receiver must have a power standby mode, and its
current consumption at 240VAC in standby mode must not exceed 25 watts. (Although 1 watt is
an industry standard for standby power, many great ampliers routinely dismiss it for reasons of
performance over power savings. Therefore, you should consult the specication sheet in your
amplier’s user manual.)
If these two requirements cannot be met, simply place the power correction circuit switch in the “Engaged”
position and leave it there! Rest easy, knowing that you will receive every last bit of performance the circuit can
deliver. However, if your system allows for the scenario listed above and your amplier(s) or powered receiver
meets the criteria listed above, you may wish to take advantage of the standby circuit. (It is likely that many
systems will meet these criteria. However, if the standby function is not important to you, simply leave the switch
in the “Engaged” position).
The standby function was not created to place the connected system into a standby or switched mode, but
rather to place the Transient Power Correction Circuit into standby mode (disengaged), for instances when the
system is powered but not functioning (i.e., when there is no signal present). This was implemented because
the Transient Power Correction Circuit creates a reactive current draw of as much as 9 to 10 amps RMS at idle
(real world draw is a small fraction of an amp), and electrical technicians who connect a current probe to a
product such as this are frequently alarmed: They suspect that the product is either broken or that it is drawing a
distressingly high amount of current from the wall outlet (akin to a power amplier left in full operational mode).
This is actually far from the truth. If the Niagara 5000UK was consuming that much current (or even 30% of that
level), it would need to dissipate the energy loss in heat. It would be quite warm (even hot) to the touch, just like
most power ampliers while in operation. In fact, the Niagara 5000UK runs cool, precisely because this current
reading is false. The circuit utilizes massive capacitive reactance across the AC line, which, akin to a battery, will
both absorb and immediately release the current several times per second. Further, when incorporated with

11
power supplies such as those found in power ampliers, the current readings actually come down. This is due to
what’s known as a vector load, and it’s quite dynamic in an audio/video system. In this scenario, there is one thing
that can run somewhat warmer than it might otherwise: the AC cord that supplies power to the Niagara 5000UK.
This is because the wiring and the circuit breaker that supply power to Niagara 5000UK simply look at RMS current
and do not distinguish between reactive loads, resistive loads, or inductive loads, but your utility does.
This circuit and many like it have been utilized for many years, and, when tested into buildings with absolutely
no loads present aside from the transient power correction circuit, there was virtually zero power draw from the
utilities’ power meter. Still, in an age where so-called “smart meters” are omnipresent, and some utilities may or
may not change their standards for “what type of power or current is suitable for billing,” we have gone to great
lengths to oer an alternative to those who may be concerned, but who nevertheless wish to achieve the best
possible audio/video performance.
Again, if you wish to utilize this feature, and your amplier(s) and/or powered receiver meet the criteria,
simply place the Power Correction Switch in the “Standby” position. Otherwise, please leave the switch in the
“Engaged” position.
Extreme Voltage Indicator
One portion of the Niagara 5000UK’s non-sacricial surge protection is dedicated to a fast-acting extreme voltage
shutdown circuit. If more than 275VAC is present on the incoming AC line for more than a quarter of a second,
the circuit will instantly open a high-current relay that will disengage the AC power from all of the Niagara
5000UK’s AC outlets, activating the red front-panel LED “Extreme Voltage” warning indicator. Once the event has
passed, or the building wiring fault has been corrected, the circuit will automatically re-engage.
Break-in Time | Continuous Use
The Niagara 5000UK is made of a variety of passive and active components. Though every attempt has been
made to reduce the necessity of so-called “break-in,”“burn-in,” or “run-in” time—including high-power run-in of
every critical capacitor in the Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation Circuits—the Niagara 5000UK will benet
from continuous use, just like any other audio/video component. This is not to say that you will be made to
“suer” through weeks or months of intolerable performance until that “magic day” when the parts are fully
formed and ready. On the contrary, the Niagara 5000UK will perform very well from the rst moment you use it. It
will improve gradually, in small increments, over a period of approximately two weeks. While leaving the Niagara
5000UK turned on during this period will aid the process, it is also perfectly acceptable to turn the unit o; doing
so will simply increase the time it takes to reach nal “break-in.”
The Niagara 5000UK has a 5-year warranty, but it was designed to last for over two decades. Provided that the
Niagara 5000UK is used inside a home, store, studio, or oce with a reasonable climate (7 degrees to 38 degrees
Celsius, with less than 20% humidity), it can be left on continuously; there are no parts that will wear out.

12
Specications
Surge Suppression: Non-sacricial (nothing to damage with repeated 6000V/3000A
input surge tests, which is the maximum that can survive through a
building’s AC electrical panel).
Extreme Voltage Shutdown
Voltage:
275VAC (will activate the main high-current relay to open within less
than 0.25 second; automatically resets once the incoming power is
within a safe range).
Level-X Ultra-Linear Common-
Mode Noise Dissipation:
In excess of 30dB from 20kHz to 100MHz, linearized for dynamic
(rising) line impedance with frequency (source) and 10- to 50-ohm
load, system current dependent.
Level-X Ultra-Linear Transverse-
Mode Noise Dissipation:
In excess of 24dB from 3kHz to 1GHz, linearized for dynamic (rising)
line impedance with frequency (source) and 10- to 50-ohm load,
system current dependent.
Input Current Maximum Capacity: 13 amps RMS (total).
11 AC Ground-Noise Dissipated
Outlets in 5 Isolated Groups:
3 High-Current/Transient Power Correction outlets for on-demand
current to variable-current equipment (ampliers). 8 Level-X Ultra-
Linear Filtered AC outlets.
Power Consumption: Typically, less than 0.25 amps at 240VAC input, or with the power
correction switched to Standby setting.
(This is dependent on a reactive vector load.For more info,see“Operation
and Continuous Use: Rear-Panel Power Correction Switch | Niagara
5000UK Current Draw.”)
Dimensions: 445mmW x 133mm H x 437mm D (3-RU rack-mounting ears, optional)
Weight: 18kg.

13
Trouble-Shooting Guide
At AudioQuest, we always appreciate hearing from you. However, if you have questions, problems, or
suspect that your Niagara 5000UK requires service, please start here.
There is no power to any of the AC outlets.
When the Niagara 5000UK’s front-panel LED power indicator glows blue, the unit is operational. If the Power On
indicator is not lit, consider the following:
• Is the upper portion of the front-panel rocker switch fully ush with the chassis?
• Is the input AC cord fully inserted into the Niagara 5000UK’s AC inlet?
• Is the input AC cord properly plugged into the wall AC service outlet?
• Is the wall’s AC outlet functioning properly?
Plug into the outlet another component, product, or lamp to verify that power is present and that the electrical
panel’s circuit breaker has not tripped. If there are only one or two AC outlets that have no output power, a
component may be malfunctioning. Verify the AC output with a known simple device such as a lamp.
There is no power to any of the AC outlets and the red front-panel Extreme Voltage
indicator is lit.
This indicates that either there is more than 275VAC (+/-3V) present on the wall’s AC service outlet, or the Niagara
5000UK’s protection circuit is mis-calibrated. The latter is quite rare. (This circuit is adjustable, but it’s tested and
retested before it leaves the factory, and it’s glued into place, so shipping will not aect it.) Use an AC voltage
meter to determine if your outlet has too much voltage to be safe for operation, or if there is a wiring fault that
is causing this to occur.
Once the power is brought into a safe range for operation (165VAC to 270VAC), the Niagara 5000UK’s protection
circuit will automatically switch to operational mode and the blue power indicator will light.
The main power rocker switch/circuit breaker tripped to the lower (o) position
while the system was playing.
You may have exceeded the maximum current capacity of the Niagara 5000UK. This should be rare, but it may be
possible. Typical power ampliers draw about one-third of their maximum current consumption at 230-240VAC,
as listed in the product’s specications (typically found in their owner’s manual). This is further complicated by
the fact that the power consumption to all AC source outlet groups (outlets 4 through 11), is an additional draw
on the maximum current capacity of 13 amps that will trip this power switch/magnetic circuit breaker.
The Transient Power Correction Circuit may also contribute to the overall draw seen by the circuit breaker. Still,
it should be rare that the total capacity is exceeded, but, given that some televisions, projectors, and power
ampliers can draw substantial current, it is certainly not impossible. If this is the case, an additional Niagara
5000UK, and a discrete 13-amp AC service on the same phase of the electrical panel, will be required for some or
all of the power ampliers.
My power ampliers sound muddy, compressed, or weak.
The Transient Power Correction Circuit may not be operating. Be sure that all power ampliers, powered receivers,
powered loudspeakers, and/or powered subwoofers are plugged into the High-Current/Power Correction
AC outlets. If any of these are plugged into the Ultra-Linear Dielectric-Biased Symmetrical Power outlets, the
connected power amplier(s) will be current compressed, as the impedance is too high for any power amplier.

14
If the power amplier(s) are plugged into the High-Current/Power Correction AC outlets, make certain that
the rear-panel Power Correction switch is in the “Engaged”/“1” position. Although it is possible for the Power
Correction Circuit to work properly while the switch is in the “Bypass” position (see “Power Correction Switch”),
you might nd that the unit sounds substantially better in the “Engaged” position. If this is the case, it is possible
that the main or primary power amplier(s) are not plugged into High-Current AC Bank 1, the power amplier has
insucient current draw to activate the circuit, or the circuit is mis-calibrated.
When the Power Correction switch is set to the“Engaged” position, the current sense circuit will be defeated. Yet,
even with the current sense circuit functioning properly, audiophiles may prefer the “Engaged” position, as it will
slightly decrease the impedance of the Transient Power Correction Circuit.
My Niagara 5000UK has no power ampliers connected to it, but it sounds odd or
not quite as good as it once did.
TheTransient Power Correction Circuit also aects the Level-X Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation Circuits. Make certain
that the rear-panel Power Correction switch is in the “Engaged”/“1” position.
A technician or electrician found that my Niagara 5000UK consumes over 8 amps
of current. Is it broken?
No, it’s not broken, and it’s not drawing 8+ amps in any conventional sense. The Niagara 5000UK’s Transient
Power Correction Circuit creates a reactive current draw of as much as 9 to 10 amps RMS at idle, and, when
incorporated with power supplies such as those found in power ampliers, the current readings decrease. This
is a vector load, which will vary with the connected equipment. When plugged into an AC service that has no
other electrical draw, it is typical to see a real-world RMS power draw well below 30 watts at idle. (For an in-depth
explanation of the circuit, see“Power Correction Switch.”)
My home or grounds were hit by lightning. The Niagara 5000UK seems to be
functioning properly. Should it be sent in for inspection or service?
If you see or smell smoke coming from the unit, it needs service. Otherwise, if it functions after such an event
(which is very likely), there is nothing that would be compromised or damaged. If it fails after such an event, it
will fail totally. However, it’s unlikely that this would occur. The circuit is designed to easily handle any voltage
or current surge that could possibly make it past an electrical panel. The force required to damage the Niagara
5000UK via a power surge would melt the panel and burn the building (in which case, the Niagara 5000UK is the
least of your worries).
How do I clean the chassis and/or the electrical contacts?
The Niagara 5000UK’s black-painted chassis and dark chrome front panel can be cleaned with AudioQuest
CleanScreen, automotive polishing creams, or a modest misting of household window cleaners. Please use soft
cotton or wool toweling to remove the liquid from the metal and painted surface. Whenever possible, use the
supplied polishing rag for the front panel, only using liquid cleaner when oil or grime is beyond the polishing
cloth’s capacity to thoroughly clean. Never use alcohol or solvent-based cleaners. They can damage the surfaces,
paint, and silk-screening material.
The AC inlet, outlet posts, and grips are all generously plated with silver. There is no need to clean these if they
are not exposed to foreign substances such as grease and dirt. Silver oxide is a superior conductor to silver itself.
If cleaning is required, Isopropyl alcohol (preferably 99% purity) on a cotton swab is best for the inlet tabs. Some
manufacturers provide specialized cleaners for the AC output surfaces. Again, however, cleaning these surfaces
will most likely be unnecessary.

15
Note: A pipe cleaner or cleaning swab with a wood stick and compact wool tip (available from an electronics
supply house) will be superior to household swabs. When working in a small area such as an AC outlet, this is
critical. Loose strands of cotton may damage the AC outlet. Damage to an AC inlet or outlet due to cleaning is not
covered under your warranty. If you damage an inlet or outlet in an attempt to clean it, you will be charged for the
repair and you will be responsible for all shipping costs.
I hear a slight buzzing sound coming from the Niagara 5000UK. Is it damaged?
No, it’s not damaged (or, at least, damage is very unlikely). If you’re in an extraordinarily quiet room and you hear
this buzzing sound only when in relatively close proximity to the Niagara 5000UK, or only when you place your
ear next to the unit, the buzzing is normal and, unfortunately, cannot be entirely eliminated.
What you are experiencing is a variation on the eect called magnetostriction. When an extraordinarily high
quantity of harmonic distortion is present on an AC line, a portion of the Transient Power Correction circuit that
is hermetically sealed and damped can mechanically buzz as its internal electrical plates resonate at 50 Hertz
and many octaves above. In order to reduce or eliminate this harmonic distortion, the circuit is trying to turn this
distortion into heat. This has no eect on the performance or longevity of the Niagara 5000UK or its connected
components.
Well over ninety-nine percent of installations will never exhibit this problem, but that’s no comfort to the 1%
that do. Unfortunately, when this is very audible and present from across the listening room, it is typically due
to a poorly performing electrical transformer supplied from the power utility, or, sometimes, a chopped AC
waveform of an old or poorly functioning lighting dimmer system. The transformer may be saturating or in need
of replacement, and older dimmer systems may need updating (if this is at all possible).
Occasionally, this may also be triggered by other large electrical appliances whose power supplies are severely
asymmetrical. Try turning on the Niagara 5000UK with an AC outlet that is on a dierent phase from the electrical
panel. This may require some experimentation and the help of an electrician. If this cannot be remedied, simply
place the rear-panel switch to the “0” position. Only a portion of the Transient Power Correction will be disabled,
and 90% of the unit’s performance will remain intact (but the annoying buzz will be gone).

16
Warranty
The Quest Group, DBA: AudioQuest, warrants to the original purchaser of this AudioQuest Niagara
5000UK, will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of ve years. The purchaser
of the product is encouraged to complete the warranty registration by mail or on-line at the AudioQuest
website.
If the product does not conform to this Limited Warranty during the warranty period (as herein above
specied), purchaser shall notify AudioQuest in writing (or e-mail), of the claimed defects. If the
defects are of such type and nature as to be covered by this warranty, AudioQuest shall authorize the
purchaser to return the product to the AudioQuest factory (2621 White Road, Irvine, California, 92614
USA). Warranty claims should be accompanied by a copy of the original purchase invoice showing the
purchase date; this is not necessary if the Warranty Registration was completed either by mailing in
the completed warranty card or by registering online at the AudioQuest website. Shipping charges
to the AudioQuest factory (Irvine, California, USA) must be prepaid by the purchaser of the product.
AudioQuest shall, at its own expense, furnish a replacement product or, at AudioQuest’s option, repair
the defective product. Return shipping charges back to the purchaser will be paid by AudioQuest.
All warranties contained herein are null and void if: the AudioQuest AC power product (Noise-Dissipation
System) has been opened, improperly installed, altered in any way, or tampered with. AudioQuest is
not responsible for any connected equipment or any claims of damage to connected equipment due
to the occurrence of an AC power surge, spike, or over-voltage event, unless AudioQuest determines
after thorough inspection and testing by AudioQuest (with product shipped to AudioQuest USA at
the owner’s expense), that the protection circuitry was in whole or in part improperly functioning.
AudioQuest is not responsible for any connected equipment that is damaged due to external signal
lines (non-AC power lines), that carry an electrical storm or signal wiring fault surge or spike (such
as Ethernet, cable, and satellite connections). All AudioQuest AC power products (Noise-Dissipation
Systems), must be plugged directly into a properly wired AC power line with a protective ground.
AudioQuest AC power products (Noise-Dissipation Systems) cannot be “daisy-chained” together
in serial fashion with other AC power strips, UPS devices, other AC surge protectors, AC power
conditioners, three-to-two prong adapters, or AC extension cords. Any such installation voids the
warranty. The AudioQuest warranty only protects against damage to properly connected equipment
or AC cables where AudioQuest has determined, at its sole discretion, that the damage resulted from
an AudioQuest power product (Noise-Dissipation System) circuit or protection circuit malfunction and
does not protect against acts of God (other than lightning, such as ood or earthquake), war, terrorism,
vandalism, theft, normal use wear and tear, erosion, depletion, obsolescence, abuse, damage due to
low-voltage disturbances (i.e., brownouts or sags), or system equipment modication or alteration. Do
not use this product in any way with a generator, heater, sump pump, water-related devices, life-support
devices, medical devices, automobile, motorcycle, or golf-cart battery charger. To be used indoors only
and in dry areas. All warranties contained herein are null and void if used in any way with any of the
aforementioned devices.
THE FOREGOING IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT
LIMITEDTOTHE IMPLIEDWARRANTIESOFMERCHANTABILITYANDFITNESSFOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
AudioQuest does not warrant against damages or defects arising out of improper or abnormal use or
handling of the product, against defects or damages arising from improper installation, against defects
in products or components not manufactured by AudioQuest, or against damages resulting from such

17
non-AudioQuest made products or components. This warranty shall be cancelled by AudioQuest at its
sole discretion if the product is modied in any way without written authorization from AudioQuest.
This warranty also does not apply to products upon which repairs have been aected or attempted by
persons other than pursuant to written authorized by AudioQuest.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE. The sole and exclusive obligation of AudioQuest shall be to repair or
replace the defective product in the manner and for the period provided above. AudioQuest shall not
have any other obligation with respect to this product or any part thereof, whether based on contract,
tort, strict liability, or otherwise. Under no circumstances, whether based on this Limited Warranty or
otherwise, shall AudioQuest be liable for incidental, special, or consequential damages. AudioQuest
employees or representatives’ ORAL OR WRITTEN STATEMENTS DO NOT CONSTITUTE WARRANTIES,
shall not be relied upon by purchaser, and are not a part of the contract for sale or this Limited Warranty.
This Limited Warranty states the entire obligations of AudioQuest with respect to the product. If any
part of this Limited Warranty is determined to be void or illegal, the remainder shall remain in full force
and eect.
Warranty claims should be accompanied by a copy of the original purchase invoice showing the date
of purchase. (If a Warranty Registration Card was mailed in at the time of purchase or if the product was
registered online, this is not necessary.) Before returning any equipment for repair, please be sure it is
adequately packed and cushioned in either the original or a new AudioQuest factory-supplied polybag,
foam insert pair, and dual carton set to protect against damage in shipment, and that it is insured.
February 2021 W
©2021 AudioQuest • California, USA • The Netherlands • www.audioquest.com • Email: [email protected] • Made in USA