British audio brand iFi has launched the iGalvanic3.0 which they claim is “the ultimate noise-busting, sound-enhancing device for USB-connected computer audio systems”.

USB connectivity has become a crucial part of high-performance audio, as computers replace traditional hifi devices as the main source component in many systems. However, there’s a problem: computers and their USB interfaces are designed to support many functions and are not optimised for audio; USB connections are inherently ‘noisy’ and can introduce distortion to the audio signal, which affects sound quality.

iFi makes several devices to enhance audio signal quality via USB, each one purpose-built to tackle particular issues. Its latest such product – the iGalvanic3.0 – is also its most advanced, offering full galvanic isolation for both USB2.0 and USB3.0 connections, coupled to further proprietary circuits to optimise USB signal and power lines. iFi told us “T his unique combination banishes all forms of electrical noise and digital jitter that plague USB connections when used for high-quality audio applications”.

Price and availability

The iFi iGalvanic3.0 is available from September. RRP is £349 inc. VAT

iFi will be showing the iGalvanic3.0 ot the IFA show in Berlin the 1^st to 6^th September 2017

iFi will be in Hall 1.2, Stand 126 and will also have the Ear Buddy: a low-cost plug-in headphone optimiser that attenuates the output signal to better suit headphones with high sensitivity (available early September). There will also be a preview of a fantastic new portable DAC/headphone amp (available Q4 2017) plus new strategic tie-ups – including the implementation of MQA in new product lines.

You can find details of IFA and many other events in our Hifi Diary.