John Darko
“I know not of any other upgrade at any price that gives (relatively) so much for (relatively) so little.” –– to this day, my closing statement on AudioQuest’s US$995 Niagara 1000 ‘Low-Z Power Noise-Dissipation System’ holds true. Having the chrome tube strip away mains-supplied (and airborne) electrical noise from a hi-fi/head-fi system nets clearly audible results — I’d liken the improvement to a remastering of every album played through it.
In this Darko.Audio podcast episode, Niagara series designer Garth Powell explained why:
However, the Niagara 1000’s single high current outlet – essential for loudspeaker amplifiers – meant only integrateds or power amplifiers could play. Active loudspeaker and/or monoblock users were left to ponder the US$4000 Niagara 5000.
This week, AudioQuest add 200 to the entry-level Niagara’s model name but keep the internal tech and price the same: the incoming Niagara 1200 will sell for US$995.
From the press release: “Like the 1000 before it, the Niagara 1200 includes AudioQuestโs patented Ground-Noise Dissipation System for a full 18 octaves of Level-X Linear Noise-Dissipation. Common to all Niagara products, the 1200 features AudioQuestโs Non-Sacrificial Surge Protection and Over-Voltage Shutdown, ensuring that all associated A/V systems are thoroughly protected from AC surges and spikes.”
However, the new model adds two key features:
1) A second high-current outlet. Hello 2 x Schiit Aegir. Hello Kii Three. Hello ELAC Navis.
2) A completely reworked enclosure, none too dissimilar to that of the Schiit Gungnir DAC, that accommodates floor placement and in-rack positioning where the power outlets point at the wall.
Further details on the Niagara 1200, direct from the press release (click to enlarge):
Read my extensive coverage of the Niagara 1000 here.
The Niagara 1200 is available now to US customers. European, UK and AU/NZ versions will follow in due course.
Further information: AudioQuest
