UAC2 ground loop isolator

The JDS Labs Synapse MAX is a galvanic UAC2 USB isolator designed to eliminate ground loops and electrical noise coming from a computer, without limiting audio performance or sample rates. With High-Speed USB at 480 Mbps, it suits both hi-fi DACs and bus-powered USB audio interfaces.

Built on a new architecture using the TI ISOUSB211 chip, the Synapse MAX delivers up to 1 A of isolated current — ten times more than the original Synapse. That makes it compatible with many bus-powered DACs and audio interfaces that need more power over USB.

Uncompromising galvanic USB isolation

Unlike many USB isolators limited to Full-Speed USB, the Synapse MAX keeps a USB 2.0 High-Speed link at 480 Mbps. It supports modern UAC2 audio devices without reducing resolution or sample rate.

Galvanic isolation effectively removes:

• 50/60 Hz hum
• ground loop noise
• GPU and PC power supply interference
• some issues caused by unstable or noisy USB ports

The Synapse MAX acts as a complete electrical separation between the computer and your audio chain.

Designed for USB-powered DACs and audio interfaces

With up to 1000 mA of output capacity, the Synapse MAX is particularly well suited to:

• bus-powered USB DACs
• USB audio interfaces
• USB DAPs and streamers
• hi-fi systems sensitive to computer noise

The TPS737 linear regulator and transformer-isolated power supply provide clean, stable power to protect the performance of the connected equipment.

Premium JDS Labs build

The Synapse MAX keeps JDS Labs' compact, elegant design with:

• a CNC-machined aluminium chassis
• a smoked glass top
• USB-C input/output connectors
• a braided USB-C cable included
• USB-A adapters supplied

Specifications

• Galvanic UAC2 USB isolation
• USB 2.0 High-Speed 480 Mbps
• Maximum current: 1000 mA
• Controller: TI ISOUSB211
• Regulator: TPS737 LDO
• Isolation: 5000 VRMS
• Connectors: USB-C in / out
• ESD protection: ±25 kV
• Dimensions: 59 x 39 x 18 mm
• Weight: 82 g

In the box

• JDS Labs Synapse MAX
• USB-C to USB-C cable
• Female USB-C to male USB-A adapter
• Male USB-C to female USB-A adapter

Why choose the Synapse MAX?

The Synapse MAX is a particularly relevant solution if you hear noise with:

• active speakers
• hi-fi systems connected to a computer
• USB audio interfaces
• studio or mastering setups sensitive to interference

Unlike some questionable "audiophile" accessories, the Synapse MAX tackles a real, measurable electrical problem: ground loops and noise injected over USB.