Review:
For those who rely on their laptop or desktop as their primary music source, the USB connection between your computer and audio gear can be both a blessing and a curse. While USB enables the transfer of high-resolution digital audio, it also introduces electrical noise that can distort sound quality. Enter iFi’s latest innovations: the iSilencer+ and iDefender+. These compact devices promise to eliminate unwanted noise and enhance your listening experience.
The Problem with USB Audio
While USB interfaces allow for bit-perfect high-resolution audio transfer, they weren’t originally designed for audio purposes. USB carries both power and data, making it susceptible to electrical interference from the computer’s power supply. This interference can result in:
- Audio distortion
- Unwanted clicks and pops
- Latency issues
- Ground loops that produce irritating hums and buzzes
iFi’s Solution
British audio specialist iFi, known for its affordable yet high-quality portable DACs, has developed two updated devices to combat these issues:
iFi iSilencer+
An upgrade to the previous iSilencer3.0, the iSilencer+ is designed to remove electrical noise and enhance USB audio clarity. Key features include:
- Enhanced Filtering: Uses low-ESR Tantalum capacitors for a 10x increase in filtering capacitance.
- Broad Compatibility: Available in three configurations:
- USB-A to USB-A
- USB-C to USB-A
- USB-C to USB-C (ideal for Mac users)
- Supports USB Standards: Compatible with SuperSpeed USB 3.0 and backward-compatible with USB 2.0.
- Gold-Plated Connectors: Ensures optimal signal transfer.
- Advanced Noise Cancellation: Uses iFi’s ANC II (Active Noise Cancellation II), derived from military radar technology, to eliminate electrical interference at the source.
- Jitter Reduction: Minimizes digital distortion that affects sound quality.
- REbalance Technology: Ensures a clean, bit-perfect signal transfer.
The iSilencer+ can be inserted between your computer and DAC, and multiple units can be used across spare USB ports to further reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).
iFi iDefender+
Designed to tackle ground loop issues, the iDefender+ eliminates hums and buzzes caused by multiple grounding points in a USB audio setup. Its key features include:
- Ground Loop Detection & Elimination: Automatically identifies and disconnects redundant earth connections.
- Enhanced Filtering: Uses low-ESR Tantalum capacitors for superior noise reduction.
- Multiple Connection Options:
- USB-A to USB-A
- USB-C to USB-A
- USB-C to USB-C
- Gold-Plated Connectors: For high-quality signal transfer.
- USB 3.0 and 2.0 Compatibility: Works seamlessly with a range of audio setups.
Performance & Sound Quality
While the impact of the iSilencer+ and iDefender+ varies from system to system, typical benefits include:
- Enhanced Clarity: Cleaner, more detailed audio with reduced background noise.
- Greater Dynamic Range: Improved extension and a more vivid presentation.
- Improved Timing & Precision: Reduced jitter leads to better rhythmic accuracy.
- Elimination of Buzz & Hum: Especially effective for systems plagued by ground loop issues.
Pricing & Verdict
Both the iSilencer+ and iDefender+ are priced at $59 per unit, making them an affordable yet effective upgrade for USB-based audio setups.
Scores:
- Sound Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Ease of Use/Compatibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
For those experiencing USB noise issues, iFi’s latest offerings provide a simple yet powerful way to enhance digital audio clarity and eliminate unwanted interference. If clean, high-fidelity sound is your goal, the iSilencer+ and iDefender+ are well worth considering.
You can find these cables for sale on our AmericaHiFi website here: iDefender+ and iSilencer+
