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Introduces Valhalla 2 cables, highlighting research, performance, and design principles.
Explains key technologies like Dual Mono-Filament and HOLO:PLUG, and warranty registration.
Describes how trapped gases affect new cables and the need for break-in.
Details VIDAR treatment and minimum hours for best performance.
Introduces System Solution discs for DIY cable conditioning and system diagnostics.
Emphasizes the power cord's importance for optimal AC power transfer and system performance.
Discusses IEC C-19 connectors and safe handling to prevent surface damage.
Explains the use of red (right) and black (left) connectors for accurate hookup.
Details directional arrows on connectors indicating signal path for optimal sound.
Notes that RCA and XLR interconnects are constructed differently and are not interchangeable.
Describes HOLO:PLUG spade and Z plug banana connectors for loudspeaker connections.
Provides instructions for connecting speaker cables, including polarity and direction.
Introduces bi-wire jumpers as an extension of reference cables for specific configurations.
Guides DIN/RCA/XLR connections, specifying red for right and black for left channels.
Explains how to eliminate hum by correctly grounding turntable and phono-stage.
Details using detachable ground wires for shield grounding and noise prevention.
Explains how a full system upgrade with Valhalla 2 transforms performance.
Provides guidance on upgrading cables in stages based on component quality.
Presents a diagram illustrating the recommended order for system cable upgrades.
The Valhalla 2 is a range of high-fidelity audio cables designed to elevate the sound quality of audio systems. These cables are the culmination of over a decade of dedicated research and development by Nordost, aiming to provide an unparalleled musical fidelity experience. The Valhalla 2 series builds upon the legacy of Nordost's original Valhalla range, incorporating cutting-edge production techniques and technological innovations to set a new standard for audio performance.
The primary function of Valhalla 2 cables is to facilitate the optimal transfer of audio signals and power within a high-fidelity sound system. This includes power cords, interconnects (RCA and XLR), loudspeaker cables, bi-wire jumper cables, and tonearm cables. Each cable type is meticulously engineered to minimize interference, ensure accurate signal transmission, and perfectly match impedance, thereby enhancing the overall musical presentation. The goal is to transport listeners into a live-listening experience, creating a three-dimensional image of the musical performance that feels incredibly realistic.
Valhalla 2 cables adhere to Nordost's core design philosophy, which emphasizes low mass, optimal signal transfer, and perfect impedance matching. Most cables in the range utilize silver-plated, OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) solid core conductors, insulated with extruded FEP (Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene), and feature a mechanically tuned construction with asymmetrical grounding.
A significant advancement in the Valhalla 2 range is the introduction of Dual Mono-Filament technology. This innovation creates a virtual air dielectric around the conductors, further reducing insulation contact and improving signal speed and accuracy.
Another groundbreaking improvement is the proprietary HOLO:PLUG® connector. These connectors are designed to be the best possible interface between the cable and the component, ensuring a seamless and high-integrity connection. The HOLO:PLUG® connectors are featured across various cable types, including power cords, interconnects, and loudspeaker cables.
Valhalla 2 Power Cords are considered the most critical cable in an audio loom. They ensure the optimum transfer of AC power, free from the harmful effects of electromagnetic interference and radio frequencies, which are essential for the seamless operation of a sound system. Users should ensure the IEC end of the power cord is firmly fitted into the IEC receptacle and then plug the power connector into the wall socket or a QRT power product. Nordost also offers an upgraded option with IEC C-19 input connectors for components that require them, such as the QB8-Mark II power distribution units.
Valhalla 2 Interconnects are terminated with color-coded RCA and XLR connectors. For RCA and XLR configurations, the connector engraved with "HOLO:PLUG" in black should be connected to the black (left channel) connection on the component, while the connector engraved with "HOLO:PLUG" in red should be connected to the red (right channel) connection. All Nordost cables are directional, and the directional arrows on the wooden blocks should point in the direction of the signal flow (e.g., from a CD player towards an amplifier). It's important to note that the cable geometry for RCA and XLR interconnects is specifically constructed for each termination, meaning re-termination from one variety to the other is not possible.
Valhalla 2 Loudspeaker Cables are terminated with Nordost's gold-plated HOLO:PLUG® spade and low-mass Z plug Banana connectors. When installing, the connector wrapped in black (-) should be attached to the black terminal on both the power amplifier and loudspeaker, and the connector wrapped in red (+) to the red terminal. Like other Nordost cables, these are directional, and the arrows on the connectors must point towards the loudspeaker. These cables are available in a shotgun configuration. For equipment requiring bi-wire or bi-amp connections, Valhalla 2 Bi-Wire Jumpers are available as an extension of Nordost's Reference Loudspeaker Cables, ensuring a consistent sonic signature.
Valhalla 2 Tonearm Cables are available with DIN, RCA, or XLR connectors. For RCA and XLR configurations, the red wire denotes the right channel, and the black wire denotes the left channel. These cables are also directional, and any arrows on the breakout barrels should point towards the phono-stage.
To address noise or hum caused by ground loops in turntable setups, users should connect the Bond Ground Wire (a wire with spade connectors permanently attached to the tonearm cable) to the ground screws on both the turntable and the phono-stage. This creates a secure, low-noise connection.
For further ground loop prevention, detachable ground wires can be inserted into the cable's breakout barrels, allowing the cable's shield to be used as an additional ground. The manual suggests an experimental approach to find the ideal grounding configuration:
While a full loom of Valhalla 2 cables is ideal for transforming a hifi system, Nordost provides a framework for staged upgrades. If components in the system vary in quality, it's recommended to upgrade the cables for the higher-quality components first. For systems with components of equal quality, the upgrade priority is:
New Valhalla 2 cables require a minimum of 150 hours of burn-in time to achieve their true performance potential. During manufacturing, gases can become trapped in the insulation, and high electrical charges can make new cables sound brittle or bright. Burn-in helps dissipate trapped gases and allows impurities in the conductors to act like diodes, favoring current flow in a particular direction.
The most effective method for burning-in Valhalla 2 cables is a VIDAR treatment at a local Nordost dealer. The VIDAR system runs current through the cables, dissipating trapped gases, conditioning the conductors, neutralizing charges, improving signal transmission, and ultrasonically conditioning the conductor surfaces.
Cables left unused for extended periods can become stagnant. Everyday cable use can also lead to current leakage, imparting a charge onto the cables. Regular VIDAR treatments can re-condition cables and neutralize these charges.
For users without access to a VIDAR, Nordost offers the "System Solution: Set-Up & Tuning Discs." This two-disc set includes system burn-in and degauss tracks, allowing users to condition their cables independently. The set also provides diagnostic tracks for speaker placement, sub-woofer integration, performance checks, and problem location.
When handling Valhalla 2 Power Cords, users should be aware that the connectors can mark the surface of equipment or furniture if dropped, so careful handling is recommended.
To qualify for a limited lifetime warranty, original purchasers must register their Valhalla 2 cables with Nordost within 30 days of purchase. This can be done by filling out and returning the supplied Warranty Card or by completing the Product Registration form on the Nordost website.
General| Series | Valhalla 2 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Nordost |
| Applications | High-end audio systems |
| Cable Type | Interconnect |
| Insulation | Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) |
| Connector | RCA or XLR |
| Technology | Mono-Filament |
| Material | Silver-plated OFC |
| Category | Audio |
| Type | Interconnect |
| Connector Types | RCA, XLR |
| Conductor Material | Solid Core Silver-Plated 99.999999% OFC |
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