USB Isolator is a device designed to block computer noise from getting to USB equipment which is connected to the PC. This is particularly interesting with the use of noise sensitive audio devices such us USB Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) and USB-to-S/PDIF converters (DDCs).
computers in every audio system
Digital audio playback nowadays almost always involves computers in one form or another, wheter it is a desktop PC, a laptop or a dedicated streamer – all these devices generate noise, because they are packed with switching power supplies and high frequency chips. High end music servers and streamers include some sort of filtering to minimize this harmful noise.
Music lovers who use desktop PCs can greatly enhance playback quality through the use of specialized USB Audio cards, linear power supplies and other accessories which can convert a regular desktop PC into a hi-end digital audio transport, often superior to those offered by hifi manufacturers.
the upgrade for all usb audio players
Less lucky are the owners of mini-PCs, laptops, macbooks and micro streamers that can not be upgraded like this, at least not their USB outputs. Here with the help comes the USB Isolator; being a separate device, it can be installed in any computer setup to block the noise and create a clean USB audio signal from a scratch resulting in major sound quality improvement. Plug & play; on Mac, Linux or Windows. Without installing drivers.
Few years ago the technology allowed for galvanic isolation of USB data transfers up to USB full-speed (USB 1.1) which means that all modern USB DACs could not be supported and benefit from the isolation. The USB Isolator utilizes the world’s first USB high-speed (USB 2.0) galvanic isolation technology compatible with all USB Audio Class 2 devices (UAC2), in other words; all USB DACs without limitation in digital audio formats (e.g.PCM, DSD) and sample rates.
The systems that benefit the most from the use of the USB Isolator are mini-PCs, laptops, macbooks and streamers without linear power supplies. Below you can see the USB Isolator connected to a Macbook Pro and a USB DAC.
The USB Isolator is available in our webshop.
Shop the full JCAT collection here
A recognized high-end audio consultant. Computer audio pioneer. Co-creator of the award-winning software, JPLAY. Manufacturer, curator, and distributor of high-quality audio products. Constantly strives for perfection of sound. Foundations for his breakthroughs finds in areas that others ignore.