Furutech NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) Line (output) Optimizer

Description

…I experimented with the NCF Clear Line (RCA on the line input and output of my Accuphase Preamp C-2450. The effects using the line input terminal were outstanding, as follows:
– The signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) improved, resulting in each sound becoming clear and distinct.
– There was an enhancement in transient response and dynamic control, leading to a dramatic improvement in the sense of power and liveliness.
– The transparency increased, making vocals and string instruments more melodious.
– The coloration disappeared, leading to a natural sound texture.
– The dynamic range expanded, resulting in a sound full of warmth.
– The overall sound became similar to an upgraded preamp or power amp, providing significant returns on investment.
…….. Japanese HiFi commentator – Stereo Magazine Japan

The Furutech NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) is a high-performance line optimizer designed for XLR output connections, specifically focusing on enhancing the signal quality in balanced audio systems. It incorporates Furutech’s advanced NCF (Nano Crystal² Formula) technology to minimize electrical noise, static, and unwanted mechanical vibrations that can degrade audio quality. This optimizer is intended for use with female XLR output connectors on high-end audio equipment, including amplifiers, DACs, and audio interfaces.

• Nano Crystal² Formula (NCF) Technology:
  • The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) utilizes Furutech’s proprietary NCF technology, which has dual functions. It generates negative ions to eliminate static and uses its piezoelectric properties to convert vibrations into heat, thereby dissipating unwanted energy that could interfere with the audio signal.
  • This technology results in cleaner, more stable signal transmission by reducing noise and distortion at the output level, ensuring that the signal remains pure as it exits the audio component.
• Designed for XLR Output Optimization:
  • The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) is specifically engineered for female XLR output connectors. It is plugged into unused XLR output ports on devices such as preamps, DACs, or amplifiers, where it works to filter out high-frequency noise and ground noise, both of which can interfere with the signal being sent to other components in the system.
  • By stabilizing the output signal and preventing external interference, the device helps deliver a more detailed and natural sound.
• Noise Reduction and Vibration Control:
  • This optimizer addresses common issues like radio frequency interference (RFI), electromagnetic interference (EMI), and vibrations, which can subtly affect audio output. It reduces high-frequency noise that can introduce harshness or distortion in the sound, leading to smoother and clearer audio reproduction.
  • It also mitigates mechanical vibrations that can travel through connectors and disrupt the signal flow, further contributing to a cleaner soundstage.
• Plug-and-Play Installation:
  • The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) is easy to use—simply plug it into any unused female XLR output connector, and it begins optimizing the signal immediately. There’s no need for complicated installation, making it a convenient way to upgrade an audio system.
• High-Quality Build:
  • As with all Furutech products, the NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) features gold-plated connectors, which improve conductivity and prevent corrosion. This ensures long-term durability and reliable performance in demanding audio setups.
  • The robust construction also ensures that the optimizer will hold up well over time, even in professional environments.

Applications:

• High-End Audio Systems:
  • The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) is perfect for audiophiles who want to improve the output signal quality in their high-end audio setups. By optimizing XLR outputs, it enhances the overall sound quality, allowing for clearer, more detailed audio transmission from amplifiers, preamps, DACs, and other components.
• Professional Studios:
  • In recording studios or mastering environments, where maintaining signal integrity is critical for accurate sound reproduction, the NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) helps to reduce noise and interference from XLR outputs. This ensures that the signal sent to monitors or recording equipment is clean and free from unwanted artifacts.
• Home Theater Systems:
  • For home theater enthusiasts, optimizing XLR outputs can help improve the clarity and detail of audio, especially in systems that use balanced connections for surround sound or music playback. The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) helps ensure that the output signal remains as pure as possible, delivering a more immersive audio experience.

Benefits:

• Improved Audio Clarity:
  • By reducing electrical noise, static, and vibrations, the NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) significantly enhances the clarity of the audio signal. This results in a cleaner, more accurate sound, with better separation of instruments and vocals, and a more detailed and precise soundstage.
• Better Dynamics and Soundstage:
  • The reduction of noise and vibrations leads to improved dynamics, allowing the system to deliver deeper bass, more open mids, and smoother highs. It also improves the depth and width of the soundstage, making the listening experience more engaging.
• Enhanced Signal Purity:
  • The NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) ensures that the audio signal exiting the component is free from external interference, allowing it to maintain high fidelity as it travels through the system. This is especially important in high-end systems where even minor distortions can negatively impact the listening experience.

How It Works:

• When plugged into an unused female XLR output, the NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) begins to reduce ground noise and high-frequency interference that can affect the outgoing audio signal. The NCF technology works by eliminating static and dampening vibrations, which in turn helps to maintain the purity and stability of the signal as it exits the component.
• This results in a cleaner signal path, free from the usual noise and distortions that can arise in complex audio systems, allowing the system to deliver a more natural and accurate sound.

The Furutech NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) is an excellent addition for any audiophile or professional looking to improve the quality of their XLR output connections. By reducing noise, static, and vibrations, it ensures that the output signal is clean and accurate, leading to better overall sound quality. Whether you are using it in a high-end home audio system, a professional studio, or a home theater setup, the NCF Clear Line-XLR(F) offers a simple yet effective solution for enhancing audio performance and achieving the best possible sound from your equipment.

RATING
NCF Clear Line-XLR (F/Female)(Nano Crystal² Formula (NCF) Body material and Damping clips)
The contacts are housed in a body formed with NCF Liquid Crystal Polymer Resin. The resin incorporates nylon, fiberglass, nano-sized crystalline piezo ceramic particles, carbon powder and Furutech special “NCF” anti-resonance damping material. The NCF Clear Line-XLR also features special NCF material damping clips of the same material.
it generates negative ions that eliminate static and additional ‘piezoelectric effect’ damping properties.

Hybrid Ceramic Capacitors
Features audio grade ceramic capacitor (passive type) to enhance the acoustic performance of your devices. Our team has put in countless hours of testing to determine the perfect type and specifications of capacitor to help you achieve the ultimate sound quality. We have coated the outer layer of our ceramic capacitor with a high-performance silver-colored special damping treatment to suppress any unwanted vibration and boost sound clarity. The ceramic capacitor also features advanced tuning technology that eliminates any noise interference induced from your equipment’s output terminals, ensuring that you get the best possible sound experience.

FEATURES
NCF Clear Line-XLR (Nano Crystal² Formula (NCF) Body material and Damping clips)
1. NCF Clear Line-XLR (F) (CF-602F (R) NCF XLR-P)
2. NCF Clear Line-XLR (M) (CF-601M (R) NCF XLR-P)
3. The NCF Clear Line housing body ring has been formed from special resonance damping Stainless Steel and Furutech’s NCF material and the housing constructed of 4 layers of special hybrid NCF forged texture carbon fiber.
4. Semi-sealed air chamber – The internal air chamber is pressure sealed to for additional damping effects.
5. The NCF End Cover is formed from special heat resistant nylon and Furutech‘s NCF material for improved effectiveness – ultimate resonance damping for improved tonal balance.
6. The main body and shell of the product are fixed with special anti-shock stainless steel
security screws customized. Factory adjusted to optimum torque value for performance.
*(The screws are fixed, please do not disassemble, and modify by yourself.)

Note:
※ The screws of this product are fixed. Please do not disassemble or modify by yourself.
※ We recommend aging for 24 hours or more.
※ The pattern of the shell varies depending on the product, but they are all the texture of carbon fiber, a composite damping material. It does not affect product performance.
※ Furutech uses non-magnetic stainless steel for some parts. However, stainless steel parts may exhibit weak magnetism due to stresses created during fabrication. It does not affect performance

SPECIFICATIONS
NCF Clear Line-XLR
Line Optimizer (1pcs)