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UK 3 Pin Mains

Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable QSA Edition

As low as £110.00 £91.67
SKU
Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK
Lifetime
New
24 hours
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Select the desired length for your cable from the drop-down menu.

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SPEAKER CABLES:

A quantity of 2 means you will receive a pair of speaker cables e.g. for your front left and front right speakers. By entering a quantity of 1, you will get a cable for a single speaker e.g. centre speaker and this option also enables you to vary the length (and termination) of your cable for each speaker.

OTHER CABLES:

A quantity of 1 means you will receive a single cable in the case of aerial, satellite, subwoofer, digital coaxial & optical cables and a pair of cables in the case of 2 rca to 2 rca analogue audio cables.

NON-CABLE PRODUCTS:

A quantity of 1 means you will receive 1 of the specified products.

Available

Need help? Call us on 0800 772 3688 or 0208 905 1555

Prefer email? Contact us via sales@futureshop.co.uk

The Merlin Tarantula MK6 Power Cable QSA Edition marries Merlin’s ECG system with QSA’s advanced fuses, aiming to offer unparalleled sound quality. Available in Black or advanced Blue variants, it sets new fidelity and noise suppression standards within its price range, designed to deliver an audio experience that rivals more expensive counterparts. This union of leading technologies from Merlin and QSA exemplifies their commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio performance.

Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable QSA Edition

 

Unveiling a synergy that enhances your auditory experience, the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition unites the expertise of Merlin's Tarantula MK6 power cable with Quantum Science Audio's high-performance fuses. We believe by merging two well-acclaimed products, we offer a leap in audio performance for connoisseurs of sound quality. This limited-edition product is available in two variants: the Black Edition, featuring QSA's entry-level Black Fuse, and the more advanced Blue Edition, integrated with QSA's high-performance Light Blue Fuse.

For a cable in its price range, the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition is designed to deliver an exceptional performance that exceeds expectations. Merging Merlin's ECG (Energy Control Ground) system with QSA's innovative quantum technologies, this cable elevates the bar for fidelity, noise suppression, and audio detail. The result is an audio experience with heightened clarity, enhanced separation of vocals and instruments, and an overall sound quality that rivals cables costing significantly more. The Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition is committed to superior sound quality by surpassing conventional limitations and adopting the latest innovations. Merlin and QSA, each a leader in their own field, join forces with this product to establish a higher standard in audio excellence.

 

Future Shop's Expert Review On The Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable QSA Black Edition

Fuse Curious? If you’re reading this, you’ll either be fuse-curious or fuse-cautious. Either way, from an electrical standpoint, the humble fuse is a bottleneck at the origin of your audio – power. This is why Future Shop now supplies the Merlin Tarantula power cords fitted with Quantum Science Audio Black fuses as standard, taking entry-level performance to the next level.

All the power that runs into your system passes through your power cables via that hair-width inch of conductive material. Fidelity is preserved by keeping the path as pure and unaffected as possible – from the wall socket to our ears.

We compared performance against offerings from AudioQuest: the Y3 and Z3, Wireworld Stratus 7, and even the mighty PS Audio AC3 power cables.

Playback of two excellent recordings: Christine and the Queen’s, Tilted and George Michael’s, Different Corner (Symphonica Live) on our modest test system comprising the popular Roksan Kandy amplifier, Monitor Audio Gold 100 through a Furutech DAC, told us everything we needed to know about these outstanding cables.

The Award-winning Merlin Tarantula – now with the QSA Black fuse – was found to take the test system a significant first step toward the benefits of clean power. The cable, on its own, delivers a stronger sound over stock power cords and dispels the harshness we unknowingly accept from our systems. The addition of the QSA Black fuse adds excitement with smoother top-end performance and a dynamic, delicate touch, making this combination a pleasant listening experience against alternatives. George’s voice floats upon the rich underpinning of the accompaniment in the Royal Albert Hall while the electronic accents of Tilted had space to breathe.

Compared with AudioQuest’s offerings, the Merlin may be leaner but compensates with its inviting dynamics although AudioQuest’s Z3 cable surpasses the Merlin/QSA combination in depth and body, providing George and Christine’s tracks the scale needed. The Wireworld Status 7’s talent lies in its impressive clarity and top-end sparkle, focusing the sonority of Christine’s smoothly recorded voice. For its part against the PS Audio AC3 – a firm Future Shop favourite, at twice the cost – the QSA fuse upgrades in Tarantula cables manage to sweeten the top in that way that QSA has earned their popularity.

Despite the Merlin’s straightforward design, it’s remarkably easy to work with for a high-quality power cable. In contrast, the Wireworld owes much of its top-end sparkle to its impressively stiff, flat design, while AudioQuest owes its robust sound to reassuringly heavier built construction; however, you’ll appreciate space and cable length to help manipulate these behind your equipment stand.

With a QSA fuse upgrade, the Merlin Tarantula matches and, in certain attributes, surpasses competing products. It’s easy to overlook Merlin’s practical design at a glance, but if looks are deceiving, the sound is not.

Whichever power cable you choose, the tested collection offers something for everyone. If further guidance is needed, we invite you to contact one of our experienced, industry-leading technical support team to help you choose a lasting power cable to complement your hi-fi setup.

 

QSA Black or Blue Fuse

The QSA Black or Blue fuses offer varying levels of performance uplift. The Black fuse, QSA's entry-level model, punches well above its weight, delivering enhancements that can rival components many times its price. The Blue fuse takes it a step further, offering a significant performance uplift from the entry-level Black while still outclassing higher-priced counterparts from other brands.

Both fuses are designed to minimise bottleneck distortions, potentially providing a quieter background that allows the music to emerge with improved dynamics and liveliness. Fuses are directional; please follow the correct installation directions for optimum performance.

 

Why the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition?

From the subtlest undertones to the most dynamic crescendos, this uniquely engineered power cable minimises 'Bottle Neck Distortion' and radio frequency interference, allowing your audio system to perform at its absolute best. Whether you're an audiophile or a casual listener, the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition is designed to improve your auditory experience without emptying your wallet.

 

The Exquisite Merlin Tarantula MK6 Power Cable

To unlock the full potential of your audio system, it's crucial to minimise the noise and interference that are all too common in today's domestic settings. These can seriously impede performance and hamper the system's ability to deliver optimal sound. The Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition addresses this issue head-on, leveraging the noise-reducing capabilities of the multi-award-winning Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable at its core. With 2.5 mm² twisted high-purity oxygen-free copper conductors, it offers improved current handling and low resistance. The natural cotton fillers and Ali/Mylar screen with drain wire serve as effective shields against external noise, thereby drastically reducing its impact on performance and enhancing your overall listening experience.

Harnessing Quantum Science

Incorporating QSA's proprietary technologies like Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology (MMMAT) and Metal Active Technology (MAT), this product aims to achieve efficient electron flow and enhanced conductivity. These technologies work synergistically with Merlin’s Energy Control Ground (ECG) system and high-purity oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors to reduce noise and enhance audio clarity.

Award-Winning Pedigree

Both QSA and Merlin have received numerous accolades in the Hi-Fi community, and this collaborative product embodies the best of both worlds. Fitted with either the QSA Black or Blue fuse, it has the potential to outperform competitors at higher price points.
Note

The impact of this product on your audio experience is subjective and dependent on individual preferences. Therefore, we encourage users to assess the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition in their own systems to appreciate its full capabilities.

 

Awards & Recognition

  • QSA - Most Wanted Components 2020, 2021 by Stereotimes
  • QSA - Publisher's Choice 2021, 2022 by Stereotimes
  • Merlin Tarantula MK6 Power Cable - Best Mains Cable - What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision Awards 2010
  • Merlin Tarantula MK6 Power Cable - What Hi-Fi? 5 Star Review

 

Features

  • MMMAT and MAT Technologies: Incorporates Quantum Science Audio's proprietary Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology and Metal Active Technology for improved electron flow and enhanced conductivity.
  • ECG (Energy Control Ground) System: Merlin’s patented technology is designed to minimise the impact of electrostatic energy on your system's performance.
  • Directional Fuses: Fuses are directional and optimised for electron flow and sonic performance.
  • Reduced Noise Floor: Superior noise suppression technologies deliver a quieter background, allowing the music to emerge with improved dynamics.
  • High-grade Components: Constructed using 2.5 mm twisted high-purity oxygen-free copper conductors and coated with high-grade XLPE dielectric with anti-electrostatic properties.
  • UK-Made: Merlin cables are designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, promising exceptional quality and performance.

 

Specifications

  • Conductor Material: 3 x 2.5 mm twisted high purity oxygen-free copper conductors ensure low resistance and greater current handling for a superior sound profile.
  • Dielectric: Extremely high-grade XLPE with anti-electrostatic properties, which has a much better dielectric constant than the regular PVC used in on most mains cables.
  • Shielding: Ali/Mylar screen with drain wire 
  • Grounding: The earth conductor uses a uni-lay construction screened with compounds to dissipate electrostatic energy.
  • Fillers: Natural cotton fillers are used to dampen microphonic noise in the cable
  • Technologies: ECG (Energy Control Ground), MMMAT (Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology), MAT (Metal Active Technology)
  • Fuse Variants: QSA Black Entry Level UK Mains Fuse (Black Edition), QSA Light Blue UK Mains Fuse (Blue Edition)
  • Burn-in Time: 24-250 hours for the fuse to fully settle
  • Cable Length: Customisable
  • Outer Diameter: 9 mm
  • Outer Jacket: Flexible Polyurethane
  • Plug: Re-wireable UK plug

 

 

Note:

  1. Installation direction is crucial for fuses. Incorrect orientation could lead to sub-optimal performance. An arrow is marked on each fuse to indicate the correct orientation.
  2. Users are encouraged to let the fuse undergo a burn-in process for optimum performance. Most of the changes occur within the initial 72 hours of usage but can take up to 250 hours to fully settle.
  3. Personal preferences and individual systems may impact the effectiveness of the product. We encourage prospective buyers to conduct their own auditions to assess suitability. The impact of the Merlin Tarantula Power Cable QSA Edition is subjective and may vary from person to person. We make no warranties or guarantees of performance enhancement. It is advisable for consumers to assess the product within their individual setups.
  4. This product is designed for UK mains only and should not be used in other configurations. Please ensure proper installation and consult an electrical specialist if compatibility is uncertain.
  5. Please note: The Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable QSA Edition is incompatible with AudioQuest Niagara, Torus, and Furman power products. We advise against using this cable with these specified devices, and any such use will be at the owner’s risk. Future Shop accepts no liability for damage or performance issues arising from using this cable with these power products.

 

Disclaimer

The Merlin Tarantula MK6 UK Mains Power Cable QSA Edition is incompatible with AudioQuest Niagara, Torus, and Furman power products. We advise against using this cable with these specified devices, and any such use will be at the owner’s risk. Future Shop accepts no liability for damage or performance issues arising from using this cable with these power products.

 

About Merlin Cables Made in United Kingdom

Established in the early 2000s, Merlin Cables emerged with a singular mission: to deliver consistent, outstanding performance at an exceptional value. Guided by a distinct design philosophy, Merlin endeavours to minimise system noise, preserving the integrity of the original signal and allowing any audio system to shine at its optimum capacity.

Every product under the Merlin Cables banner embodies this philosophy. They universally employ high-purity copper as the conductor material, ensuring that as one navigates up the range, the performance characteristics remain consistent, only elevating in quality at each tier.

In an age where ambient noise is omnipresent and often compromises system performance, Merlin Cables stand out. Their designs deftly integrate superior materials, from high-purity copper to cross-linked polymer dielectrics and even custom noise-reducing compounds intrinsic to the materials. This harmonious blend minimises the detrimental impact of external noise on any system.

At Merlin, the pursuit of perfection is ceaseless. Despite receiving accolades and being hailed as best in class by independent reviewers, the drive to push the performance envelope remains unabated. However, change is never arbitrary. Modifications are only introduced when they offer tangible performance enhancements.

In conclusion, Merlin Cables isn’t just a brand; it’s a promise. A promise of custom-made cables, designed to exacting specifications, always pushing boundaries while staying rooted in its foundational principles of exceptional quality and value.

 

Specification

 

  • Conductor Material: 3 x 2.5 mm twisted high purity oxygen-free copper conductors ensure low resistance and greater current handling for a superior sound profile.
  • Dielectric: Extremely high-grade XLPE with anti-electrostatic properties, which has a much better dielectric constant than the regular PVC used in on most mains cables.
  • Shielding: Ali/Mylar screen with drain wire 
  • Grounding: The earth conductor uses a uni-lay construction screened with compounds to dissipate electrostatic energy.
  • Fillers: Natural cotton fillers are used to dampen microphonic noise in the cable
  • Technologies: ECG (Energy Control Ground), MMMAT (Musical Metal Molecule Alignment Technology), MAT (Metal Active Technology)
  • Fuse Variants: QSA Black Entry Level UK Mains Fuse (Black Edition), QSA Light Blue UK Mains Fuse (Blue Edition)
  • Burn-in Time: 24-250 hours for the fuse to fully settle
  • Cable Length: Customisable
  • Outer Diameter: 9 mm
  • Outer Jacket: Flexible Polyurethane
  • Plug: Re-wireable UK plug

UK Delivery

 

1. We use Royal Mail 1st Class Services as a Standard Postage Option

Orders received before 4.30pm Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. Over 98% of our orders are usually delivered the next working day including Saturdays.

Standard delivery is usually within 2-3 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays . In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.

All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Futureshop.co.uk. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD or Interlink Express for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order Monday to Friday subject to stock availability. For International orders, we use FedEx Services where customers have selected this option.

Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths or custom-made cables may be subject to longer delivery time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

We offer 'Free UK delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:

  • Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at FutureShop.co.uk
  • Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by UK Mail).
  • Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
  • You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
  • We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
  • FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.

Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or Interlink Express next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.

Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or Interlink Express.

 

Royal Mail 1st Class Shipping DPD Next Day Delivery

 

2. Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day

We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.

For the Next Day Special Delivery service, orders must be received by futureshop.co.uk by 4.30pm weekdays. Orders after the 4.30pm deadline cannot be guaranteed for same day dispatch.

Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.

For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.

 

Royal Mail Special Next Working Day Delivery

 

3. Channel Islands & Northern Ireland

We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.

 

European Countries

Deliveries to EU member states are subject to 20% VAT. We offer the following shipping services:

  • Royal Mail First Class International Untracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 10 working days.
  • Royal Mail First Class International Tracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 7 working days.
  • DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
  • Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
  • Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours

 

Royal Mail International DeliveryRoyal Mail International Tracked DeliveryFedEX Express Economy International DeliveryFedEX Express Priority International DeliveryDHL Worldwide Express International DeliveryDHL Econmy Select International Delivery

 

Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe

Deliveries outside of the EU are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you login or register.
We offer the following shipping services:

  • Royal Mail First Class International Untracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days.
  • Royal Mail First Class International Tracked Airmail - Items are usually delivered within 10-15 working days.
  • DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability.
  • Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability.

Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets.

 

Royal Mail International DeliveryRoyal Mail International Tracked DeliveryFedEX Express Economy International DeliveryFedEX Express Priority International DeliveryDHL Worldwide Express International DeliveryDHL Econmy Select International Delivery

 

Customer Reviews
95%
4.8 /5.0 of 8 Reviews
5 stars 6 (75%)
4 stars 2 (25%)
3 stars 0 (0%)
2 stars 0 (0%)
1 star 0 (0%)
5
Good value for money lead
25 Oct 2024
Bought to use with a Plixir power supply. The only point of references I had were the original stock cable and a Naim Powerline Lite. The Powerline Lite worked ok with the Plixir and did smooth things out a bit over the stock cable but this cable improved the definition and overall tonal balance so I was happy for the price.
Was this review helpful? 0
5
Great product
25 Aug 2024
Verified Buyer
Brilliant addition to my system and top quality service from Future Shop.
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5
Perfect, exactly as described
25 Aug 2024
Verified Buyer
Perfect, exactly as described. It's a quality product and the perfect upgrade.
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5
A quality power cable
31 May 2024
Verified Buyer
Open and transparent. A little stiffer than expected, so make sure you have room behind your system.

Well put together and will last a lifetime.
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4
Well made product
4 May 2024
Verified Buyer
Staff at Futureshop were very helpful in assisting me to select this product, which is a good addition to my hifi setup.
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4
First impressions are good
21 Mar 2024
Verified Buyer
I already have a Merlin lead from some years ago that still functions perfectly, so I didn't hesitate to upgrade to another power lead.

I'm a great believer in first impressions. Once removed from the parcel, the cable more than looks the part. The mains plug and the amplifier plug are both very sturdy and solid, and the plug ends fit perfectly. Appearance-wise, the cable looks far more expensive than its given price.

The cable is fitted to my Arcam FMJ amp. The first listen revealed an open sound. Treble and bass detail are far more pronounced, and the space between instruments is also more open. It's still early days, but first impressions sound very promising.

Recommended.
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5
Excellent product, well made, makes a clear difference
19 Mar 2024
Verified Buyer
As always with Futureshop this is an excellent product, well made, and has a feel of real quality.

I use it with my Naim streamer and have found it immediately makes things sound cleaner, with more separation and detail. For example, reverb on tracks lasts longer, cymbals sound less harsh, and bass is certainly deeper but not overblown. It's a worthwhile upgrade.

Thank you.
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5
Merlin Tarantula MK6 Mains Power Cable QSA Edition, Excels!
22 Nov 2023
Verified Buyer
The new Merlin / QSA special edition power cable is a positive collaboration, producing a product that exceeds its price point, in my opinion. Delivered in a secure presentation box aptly labelled with your choice of black or blue fuse clearly identified, you are then greeted by a quality and aesthetically pleasing product. The look and feel let you know this is a step up from the Tarantula Mk 6 power cables I also purchased from Future Shop some years ago and are still a part of my set-up today.

After a discussion with Mark at Future Shop, I am trying this with my streamer in lieu of an AudioQuest NRG Z3 power cable. Once connected I noticed a cleaner, spacious sound, more separation, perhaps not so constrained in presentation. The inclusion of QSA technology is a smart move; however, given it has only been burnt in for 3 days, I cannot comment further other than to say, well done, Merlin/QSA, on moving the bar higher.
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