Readers and followers of Mono and Stereo have already had the opportunity to read my evaluation of products from this renowned Japanese manufacturer of high-end audio accessories over the past years.
There is a sure consistency in all of Furutech’s products, and the subjects of this review—the Furutech NCF Power Vault & Project V1—firmly continue the legacy set by previous models while also introducing a few new twists, where the shifts in performance are decidedly positive.
Project V1
Furutech’s Top-of-the-line High-Performance Power Cord implements exclusive high-performance connectors, including an IEC connector, a SCHUKO connector, and Cable Damping Rings. These incorporate Furutech’s proprietary NCF material, designed for antistatic and antiresonance properties, combined with premium-grade nylon insulation.
The housings of these specialized connectors and Damping Rings feature a four-layer hybrid NCF carbon fiber construction, finished with a specially formulated hardened clear damping coating.
The connector conductors are crafted from nonmagnetic, rhodium-plated α(Alpha) pure copper, securely housed in bodies insulated with Furutech’s advanced NCF material. This ensures the transmission of pure, uncolored power, enhancing soundstage depth, focus, harmonics, and tonal balance.
D.U.C.C. (Dia Ultra Crystallized Copper) α (Alpha) OCC is engineered using a blend of DUCC Ultra Crystallized High-Purity Copper and Furutech’s renowned Pure Transmission α (Alpha)-OCC technology.
Furutech’s DUCC Ultra Crystallized High-Purity Copper—sourced exclusively through Mitsubishi Materials Industries under strict quality and supply control—is one of the finest conductors identified by Furutech engineers for superior signal transmission.
Mitsubishi utilizes advanced processing techniques to refine this ultra-pure, oxygen-free copper, optimizing crystal alignment while minimizing crystal-grain boundaries. The result is an exceptionally efficient conductor with enhanced performance.
Furutech further enhances this dual-conductor configuration by integrating its α (Alpha)-OCC technology and subjecting it to the proprietary Alpha Super Cryogenic and Demagnetizing treatment, significantly improving purity and conductivity.
D.U.C.C. is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Cable Industries Ltd.
NCF
Furutech’s Nano Crystal² Formula (NCF) has led to the development of numerous innovative and highly effective products in recent years. NCF features a unique crystalline material with two distinct properties: it generates negative ions that eliminate static and convert thermal energy into far-infrared radiation.
When combined with nano-sized ceramic particles and carbon powder, these crystals form the ultimate electrical and mechanical damping material. Developed exclusively by Furutech, NCF is found only in Furutech products.
Furutech’s carefully crafted Project V1 power cord is an engineering achievement and the culmination of over 30 years of research and design dedicated to the pure transmission of AC power. Project V1 incorporates Furutech’s revolutionary NCF antistatic and antiresonance material, along with a three-layer concentric conductor configuration that blends silver-coated Alpha-OCC conductors and Alpha-DUCC conductors—a precisely balanced mix of two of Furutech’s finest conductors for high-end sound reproduction.
Alongside the highest-grade materials, the double-shielded, double-insulated Project V1 also features a special hybrid polyethylene insulation infused with a ceramic-carbon powder damping material, ensuring optimal power transmission.
Project V1 was depicted from the ground up to deliver ultra-fine resolution down to an exceptionally low noise floor, enhanced sound staging and image depth, a rich, musical midrange, tight and controlled bass, and impressive power and dynamics.
Specialized Cable Sleeve
To minimize resonance and cable stress while maintaining flexibility, Project V1 features a high-performance damping sleeve constructed from soft damping polypropylene and cross-woven hard fiber (0.02mm soft polypropylene / 0.25mm hard polypropylene).
NCF Power Vault
Fortress-like chassis with Precision Engineering
The chassis of the NCF Power Vault is crafted with unmatched solidity and precision, resembling a fortress in its construction. Made from special-grade aluminum alloy, it is meticulously CNC-machined to provide a robust shield against EMI and RFI interference. Inside, your audio components are housed in a carefully engineered compartment, featuring independently wired sockets with premium shielded α (Alpha)-OCC high-purity conductors for superior signal integrity.
Advanced Power Distribution & Noise Suppression
The NCF Power Vault is designed with a core philosophy: power distribution should not only supply electricity but also actively combat high-frequency noise. The quality of incoming power significantly influences audio performance, and disruptions—such as electrical storms affecting the AC line and ground—can severely degrade system performance. In high-end audio setups, even the most subtle recording nuances can expose weaknesses in the power chain, particularly noise interference from the AC mains.
High-frequency and electromagnetic noise spread across an audio system much like an antenna effect, making it difficult to remove. While many power conditioners attempt to mitigate this interference through basic filtering circuits, the NCF Power Vault-E takes an entirely different approach. By integrating specialized materials, advanced isolation techniques, and innovative grounding solutions, it utilizes an “induction and absorption” method specifically engineered to eliminate unwanted noise.
NCF Power Vault was designed from the ground up to enhance micro- and macro-dynamics, uncovering the delicate refinements and intricate textures within recordings.
NCF Booster Brace-Single – Power Connector Damping Support Enhancing Audio Performance with Multi-Material Hybrid Design
The NCF Booster-Brace-Single is expertly engineered to reduce vibrations in power connectors and cables, optimizing their performance. At its core is NCF (Nano Crystal² Formula)—a proprietary Furutech material that combats static buildup while providing robust mechanical damping. This unique composition not only suppresses noise but also enhances electrostatic control, contributing to a quieter background and superior clarity in sound reproduction.
Furutech’s Revolutionary Two-Stage Alpha Process
Furutech leads the industry with a cutting-edge two-step Alpha process designed to enhance audio performance.
Cryogenic Treatment
Metal components undergo deep cryogenic freezing, reducing internal stress, stabilizing their structure, and improving conductivity.
Ring Demagnetization
Furutech’s patented Ring Demagnetization process eliminates residual magnetization in metal components, enhancing electrical conductivity and signal purity.
By combining Alpha Cryogenic Processing and Demagnetization, the result is optimized AC power transfer, greater power dynamics, and enhanced resolution. This translates into deeper soundstage imaging, richer tonal colors, and extended frequency response.
Premium-Grade CNC-Machined Aluminum Chassis
Constructed from precision-milled, high-grade aluminum blocks, the NCF Power Vault features eight independently wired receptacles, ensuring optimal power delivery. The chassis is finished with a stunning hairline anodized treatment, combining engineering excellence with aesthetic refinement.
FI-E30 NCF – High-End Schuko Socket
Furutech’s Hyper Quality Schuko sockets are crafted with α (Alpha) Pure Copper and coated with nonmagnetic rhodium plating, ensuring stable, long-lasting, and optimized power transfer. The sockets are wired to a high-performance rhodium-plated pure copper IEC inlet for maximum electrical efficiency.
α (Alpha)-12: 12AWG OCC Copper Conductor
The NCF Power Vault utilizes α (Alpha) OCC single-crystal oxygen-free copper conductors in its power cables. Each conductor consists of 7 strands, each composed of 19 precisely arranged 0.18mm OCC copper wires, resulting in exceptionally low impedance and outstanding conductivity.
To further optimize performance, the cable is filled with unique audio-grade UL-CL3 PVC, offering superior electrical properties and minimal capacitive reactance. This material also acts as a shock-absorbing damping agent, preserving signal integrity and ensuring an immersive listening experience.
Formula GC-303 – Advanced EMI Absorption
The NCF Power Vault features Formula GC-303, a proprietary material bonded to the interior bottom plate of the chassis. GC-303 effectively absorbs electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by internal components. Unlike conventional filtering methods that can introduce unwanted AC resistance, Formula GC-303 preserves signal resolution, power, and dynamic range, delivering a more transparent, engaging, and high-fidelity performance.
FI-09 NCF – Top-End Performance IEC Inlet
The FI-09 NCF IEC inlet features:
- α (Alpha) Pure Copper conductors, rhodium-plated for exceptional electrical conductivity
- Furutech’s Nano Crystal² Formula (NCF), incorporating crystal powder with anti-resonance properties
- Optimized transmission efficiency, elevating the concept of Pure Transmission Signal
Precision-Engineered Isolation Spikes for Stability & Vibration Control
Equipped with four adjustable, nonmagnetic stainless-steel isolation spikes, the NCF Power Vault-E ensures rock-solid stability. These spikes, combined with a double-hardness anti-vibration rubber base, securely hold power cords in place, minimizing unwanted movement and resonance. This design significantly reduces internal reflections, leading to improved clarity and openness in sound reproduction.
Specialized Spike Supports with Anti-Vibration Rubber
The dual-sided spike supports feature nonmagnetic stainless-steel construction, combined with double-hardness anti-vibration rubber. These components are designed to perform optimally on hard and soft flooring surfaces, ensuring superior acoustic performance. Their versatile design accommodates a variety of setups, catering to individual listening preferences.
The Music
As always, here are a few reference tracks and albums showcasing the virtues of the Furutech NCF Power Vault & Project V1, and this combo’s unique ability to repeatedly create a drama-filled audio spectacle.
While a power distributor and power cable might seem rudimentary, in reality, a well-researched and well-designed device makes all the difference, making listening to music a way more enticing.
Rone – Spanish Breakfast
Especially with electronic music, there is an inherent need for an overall sweet spot and requisite dynamic expanse to adequately present the electronic score.
It all starts with proper power distribution—a power ladder and matching power cable that will not slow down, compress, or alter the pure, raw electricity.
The Japanese power distributor and power cable enabled this techno track to manifest a great sense of depth, captivating the pulsating grooves with better locking to the rhythm, keeping the dynamic minute changes intact while maintaining both horizontal and vertical depth and avoiding a kaleidoscopic presentation. This is not an easy task—something that even some similar, but far more expensive, products struggle with.
The seventh track on the album “Bora Voçal” instantly demonstrates why the Furutech NCF Power Vault and Project V1 make all the difference.
The Furutech double-decker allows this electronic music track to come in forte, creating a necessary balance and spatiality that depicts a striking, immersive experience.
Most interestingly, the Power Vault and Project V1 not only allowed the reverb and decay tails to linger longer, but the increased overall density also formed a newly found ambiance.
But most importantly, the Furutech pairing instantly converts narrative—unfolding an unsuppressed, fully dynamic scope and leaving an enticing, hypnotic impact.
The desire for repeated listening results from the proper power delivery, and the positively refreshing Power Vault and Project V1 operate in this exact realm.
Paul Lewis – MUSSORGSKY – SCHUMANN Pictures at an Exhibition / Fantasy op.17
Paul Lewis’s mastery and virtuosity call for a highly completed and competent high-end audio system to represent these two 19th-century masterpieces in its full scope.
The Furutech NCF Power Vault power distributor and Project V1 power cable’s highly potent coupling develop deeper and unfold purely musical qualities while comprising a wealth of information needed to render a vigorous three-dimensional piano presence in its entireness.
The most intriguing thing was how naturally- at forte Power Vault and Project V1 combination presented the everchanging dynamism, and how contrasting those intricate dynamic changes were, without ever losing the pace or the inner connection between subtle and raw delivery of pure music energy, particularly evident in the lighting fast-changing passages where overtones and higher harmonics formed with far greater density thus letting music free float with a newly found sense of progressive momentum.
Lou Reed – Transformer
Transformer, Lou Reed’s second solo studio album, was produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson in 1972 and released by RCA Records. It includes the immortal songs Perfect Day and Walk on the Wild Side.
Sonically, Transformer is not a perfect record, but Walk on the Wild Side was captured just right, with a well-balanced mix of bass, guitar, drums, strings, and vocal presentation. It offers a unique immediacy that quickly establishes a benchmark for what is possible within an audio setup and how well the song develops.
The Power Vault and Project V1 create a commanding power foundation that allows for the proper formation of fundamental presence, timbre, tone, and color. It doesn’t push anything toward sonic extremes but delivers a rare and refined sonic balance.
Along with Leonard Cohen’s Sisters of Mercy, Walk on the Wild Side submits an interesting challenge for any high-end audio system or product under evaluation. The track demands precise horizontal depth and spatial expansion, particularly with the rendition of a slowly pulsating female acappella.
The NCF Power Vault power distributor and Project V1 power cable revealed contrasting layers smoothly and continuously, creating the necessary step-by-step focus without artificially “zooming in” on particular details.
This can be a challenge even for higher-priced competing products, but the Furutech duo once again proved its value and highly refined ability to handle demanding tasks.
The Conclusion
Furutech maintains incredible longevity in the utterly saturated market of high-end audio accessories, and that alone speaks volumes about the brand and its products.
The NCF Power Vault power distributor and Project V1 power cable look far back to their inception, carefully considering past products and approaches while developing new, fitting advancements.
Too often, music lovers and audiophiles might not fully grasp the importance of electricity and its role in delivering pure, stable power to a high-end audio system.
I have always emphasized that everything starts at the wall (socket). Essentially, the very fundamentals of a high-end audio system start with the power cable coming from the wall—ideally accompanied by the best power-related paraphernalia. The power cables and power distributors form the epicenter of the system, determining how exquisitely electricity is distributed, closely mirroring the circulatory system in the human body, which delivers vital nutrients to every organ. Similarly, in a high-end audio system, every component must receive a raw, but optimally balanced power.
Audiophiles and music lovers often go to great lengths in pursuit of the perfect components, switching in and out of expensive gear in search of sonic perfection. However, if the foundational power delivery system is not properly set up—if it cannot provide the necessary resilience for each component—then achieving a genuine reference-level setup is simply impossible. Without proper power management, music cannot unfold as it should, fully and without restriction.
The Furutech NCF Power Vault power distributor and Project V1 power cable operate seamlessly, offering a remarkable equilibrium in power distribution. This carefully engineered design does not force music forward aggressively; instead, it delivers power with authority and finesse.
While capable of thunderous energy when needed, it also excels at presenting the finest, most delicate details—an essential trait of any upper-echelon high-end audio setup. This is precisely where Furutech’s power cable and distributor stand out, performing unconditionally at the highest level.
The NCF Power Vault and Project V1 power cable clearly exceeded my expectations. What is particularly refreshing about this powerful duo is that it doesn’t feel like another sanitized, clinical product. Instead, it steps forward as an unapologetically bold offering—one that retains the familiar Furutech essence while elevating performance to meet the demands of modern high-end audio systems. This combination enables cutting-edge resolution and dynamic expression.
In an era where high-end audio accessories emerge rapidly, it is unusual to find products that have evolved in ways that genuinely matter—continually redefining performance thresholds through innovation and craftsmanship.
There is little doubt that the NCF Power Vault and Project V1 were designed from the ground up as high-performance luxury audio products, and for the record, they are equally impressive on both fronts.
With their Made in Japan pedigree and unwavering commitment to engineering excellence, Furutech continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible at this price point.
For their outstanding resolution, unrestricted dynamic power, and exceptional subtlety, I am pleased to award the Furutech NCF Power Vault power distributor and Project V1 power cable the 2025 Mono & Stereo Highly Recommended Product Award. ❖
The Price
- Project V1 Power Cord RRP 9,980 Euro
- NCF Power Vault RRP: 8,284 Euro
Specifications
NCF Power Vault
- Chassis: CNC machined special-grade aluminum alloy with hairline anodized surface
- AC Input/Output: 10A IEC input/ 8 KEMA-KEUR Rated Schuko Socket
- Materials Processing: Metal parts treated with α (Alpha) Cryogenic and Demagnetizing
- Process
- Ground/Earth connection: Chassis Grounding Post
- IEC Inlet: FI-09 NCF (R) – α (Alpha) pure copper conductor rhodium-plated
- Receptacles: 8 High End Performance FI-E30 NCF (R) Schuko sockets
- NCF Booster Brace-Single: 8 Power Connector Damping Support
- Internal wiring: Alpha-12 – Stranded α (Alpha)-OCC conductor wire treated with Furutech’s α
- (Alpha) Cryogenic and Demagnetizing Process / UL compliant insulation: Special grade Flexible
- UL-CL3 PVC
- Rated: 10A 250V A.C. 2500AV
- Size: 350mm W x 169mm H x 140.5mm D approx. Supports)
- Weight: 11.3kgs approx.
Project V1 Power Cord
- Multi-material Hybrid conductor with special 3 tier concentric design
- Sound enhancing, resonance damping double insulation, double shielded, 3 sheath design
•Dual insulation：Inner FEP (Fluoropolymer) & Outer high-grade polyethylene
•RoHS complaint Nano-ceramic and carbon powder damping material
•cable outer diameter: 32.0mm
•Length：1.8M Approx.
Contact
FURUTECH CO.,LTD.
Furutech Bldg.
3-9-1 Togoshi
Shinagawa-Ku,
Tokyo 142-0041
Japan
Tel: +81-(0)3-6451-3941
Web: www.furutech.com