Nordost QRT QSOURCE User manual
ABOUT THE QSOURCE
The QSOURCE is a fanless linear power supply designed
specifically for high-end audio applications. Intended
to be used as a replacement for external switch-mode
power supplies, the QSOURCE provides a stable, clean
output of DC power at select voltages, while maintaining
extremely low noise levels. The QSOURCE uses a top-
of-the-line transformer with a unique circuit design to
convert AC to DC power, while an internal QRT module
removes electrical anomalies and noise artifacts from the
line. As a result, audio components run on the highest
quality DC power possible.
Whether used in conjunction with Nordost’s QPOINT
Resonance Synchronizer, or as a standalone power
supply for DC-dependent audio components such as
music servers, network switches and routers, NAS drives,
DC phono stages, and DC DACs, Nordost’s QSOURCE
Linear Power Supply will bring new dimension to your
sound system, allowing you to enjoy richer and more
nuanced musical performances.
AIR FLOW
The QSOURCE can be positioned anywhere on or around
your audio rack, in a well-ventilated space. When in
use, the QSOURCE’s case acts as a “heat sink”, causing
the device to become warm. To keep the device from
overheating, ensure that the vents on both the top and
bottom of the unit remain unobstructed at all times.
Caution: Do not place the QSOURCE on thick carpets
or in enclosed locations where proper ventilation may
be aected. Ambient temperature surrounding the
QSOURCE should not exceed 38°C/100°F.
PLACEMENT
POWERING UP
Before turning on the QSOURCE, please verify that the
device is set to the appropriate AC voltage for your
location (115/230 VAC). The AC voltage selector is
located next to the power cord input and can be adjusted
using a slotted screwdriver if necessary.
230
115
AC VOLTAGE
SELECTOR
POWER CORD
INPUT
FUSE
HOUSING
POWER
SWITCH
GROUNDING
BINDING POST
Use a power cord to plug the QSOURCE into either a wall
socket or a power distribution block. Only connect to
outlets with grounding connections. For best results,
connect to a QBASE with a Nordost power cord.
WALL SOCKET
W/ GROUND
(
OR QBASE)QSOURCE
POWER CORD
Once the correct VAC is selected and the device is
plugged in, you may turn on the QSOURCE using the
power switch located on the end of the unit, between
the binding post and IEC input. However, make sure
the device is powered o while connecting devices or
changing voltages. A blue LED light will remain lit on the
opposite end of the QSOURCE while it is active
CONNECTING DEVICES
The top of the QSOURCE is equipped with 6 outputs.
The four outputs labeled “5V” are designated to power
Nordost’s QPOINT Resonance Synchronizers. The
remaining two “variable” outputs (output “A” and output
“B”) are intended to be used for music servers, network
switches, NAS drives, DC phono stages, DC DACs or
similar devices.
5V section **
QPOINT
OUTPUTS
VARIABLE
OUTPUTS
Caution: Before adding any new devices or changing
voltages, be sure to power down the QSOURCE.
5V:
QPOINTS (4X)
A:
VARIABLE
B:
VARIABLE
EXTERNAL
CONNECTIONS EX.
Outputs “A” and “B” are
controlled by the corresponding
switches on the bottom of the
QSOURCE. Output “A” supplies
24, 19, or 12 VDC, while output
“B” supplies 19, 12, or 9 VDC.
Select the correct voltage
necessary for your device
before connecting any devices
or powering on the QSOURCE.
VARIABLE OUTLET
VOLTAGE SWITCHES
(ON UNDERSIDE OF UNIT)
A
B
12
V
12
V
19
V
24
V
9
V
19
V
Turn device OFF before
changing output voltage
Arrows on cable indicate direction of flow from QSOURCE
to any connected components.
Once voltages are selected, connect all devices
using their corresponding QSOURCE DC Cables (sold
separately). Make sure to align the keys (indicated with
red dots) on both the LEMO connector and the outputs
before connecting them.
OUTPUT KEY
CONNECTOR KEY
SOURCE DC CABLE
CONNECTED
COMPONENT
QSOURCE
SOURCE DC CABLE
The QSOURCE can be grounded to a QKORE Ground Unit
by connecting a QKORE Wire to its binding post. However,
if your QSOURCE is plugged into a “grounded” QBASE
distribution block, there is no need for further grounding.
GROUNDING
TROUBLESHOOTING
The QSOURCE is protected by a 1.25A Time-Lag ceramic
fuse on the unit’s input. If no power is being supplied to
the outputs, or if the LED does not light up when plugged
in and powered on, check the fuse and replace it. A
backup fuse is supplied inside the unit’s fuse housing.
Caution: Only replace the fuse with fuses of the same 1.25A
type. Using others (including audiophile fuses) may
damage your equipment and will void your warranty.
Caution: NEVER attempt to open or tamper with the
device. There is a risk of electrical shock and there are no
user-serviceable parts inside.
As a safeguard, the QSOURCE will shut down when any
output demands more power than its capabilities allow,
or if the device is overheating. If power to the device is
cut, even in instances where the LED remains on, turn
the QSOURCE o. Make sure that the power requirements
of all external devices are within the limitations outlined
in the specifications, that there is proper ventilation
around the unit, and that the ambient temperature does
not exceed 38°C/100°F. Once all necessary changes
have been made and the QSOURCE has cooled down,
the device can be turned on and used as normal. If after
this procedure, the QSOURCE is still not supplying the
appropriate output, please contact your Nordost dealer.
WARRANTY
Nordost warrants that the product will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship to the original purchaser, under normal use and service, for a
period of 24 months. This warranty is not transferable.
To qualify, please visit www.nordost.com/product-registration.php and fill
out the form, together with proof of puchase, within 30 days of purhcase.
SPECIFICATIONS
AC Power Input: Switchable 115/230 VAC 50/60 Hz
AC Fuse: T1.25A/250V Time-lag, Ceramic Body
Maximum AC power consumption: 100 VA
Maximum continuous DC power output @ 19 V: 66 W
Maximum continuous DC power output @ 12/24 V: 20 W
Maximum continuous DC power output @ 9 V: 10 W
Maximum continuous DC power output for all 5 V outputs combined: 5 W
Rated Operating Ambient Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
PSRR: 75 dB
Dimensions: 280mm x 121mm x 67mm / 11in x 4.75in x 2.625in with feet
Weight: 2.7kg / 6lb
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