The Article
iSilencer+ and iDefender+ From iFi
27th March 2020
iFi says that the iSilencer+ and iDefender+ remove electrical noise that distorts the audio signal. The current versions, iSilencer3.0 and iDefender3.0, are being replaced by new, improved models – the iSilencer+ and iDefender+
The new thumb-size ‘sticks’ plug into a computer’s USB socket.
The new iSilencer+ sports several enhancements compared to the outgoing iSilencer3.0. The circuitry has been upgraded with the addition of low-ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) Tantalum capacitors for input and output filtering, with a “10-fold increase in filtering capacitance”.
It is also available in more flavours of USB; while the iSIlencer3.0 is only available with USB. Type A connectors, the iSilencer+ comes in three versions to include the newer USB-C connector:
• USB-A to USB-A
• USB-C to USB-A
• USB-C to USB-C
All versions support the USB 3.0 standard, together with USB 2.0 for backwards compatibility, and incorporate gold-plated connectors.
As well as plugging an iSilencer+ into the active USB output between computer and DAC, more ‘sticks’ can be plugged into spare USB ports to further reduce radiated EMI.
The iDefender+ is specifically designed to tackle ground (or earth) loops. Like the iSilencer+, the iDefender+ upgrades the performance of the outgoing iDefender3.0 with the addition of low-ESR Tantalum capacitors for input and output filtering.
It, too, is available in three versions to suit the connected equipment – USB-A to USB-A, USB-C to USB-A, or USB-C to USB-C. Again, the USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 standards are supported and the connectors are gold plated.
The iFi iSilencer+ and iDefender+ are available from Amazon and other selected retailers now. Both products are priced at £49 each.
To learn more, click www.ifi-audio.com
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My issue is that I have static type noise from my external usb audio interface with any computer activity, processing, mouse movement, etc. My entire system is all on the same electrical circuit and grounded properly. Which of your products will eliminate this? I have run out of possible solutions after consulting both the motherboard company (MSI) and the audio interface company (TASCAM/TEAC).
Hmmm, at this distance it could be one of a thousand things. Unless you can be there and get to grips with it, etc 🙂 Are you able to change the computer to see if that is the core issue? Can you try another USB port? Have you tried shutting down every process except the music app – just to see if it’s a software-based thing? There’s a few suggestions, at any rate 🙂
Thx for the tips. I’ve exhausted most every trouble shooting tip I can find. I’ve been dealing with this since December. :-/
I’ve narrowed it down to most likely an issue with the computer (MSI) motherboard, and not the audio interface, electrical source grounding, wire, etc. Another new audio interface replacement and another brand of interface produced the same results. It appears to be a ground interference or lack of ground with the motherboard/USB/computer case, but I don’t know for sure. I was hoping the iDefender or iSilencer would resolve the issue.
Hi Mike – I think tackling the *source* of this issue is much better, faster and more efficient than using the sticking plaster route 🙂 What are you using, a laptop? Is it a business machine? Do you have a budget available?
This is a brand new desktop build. It works great other than the static he noise that is being passed through the audio interface to my studio amplifier and speakers. I agree that the problem is most likely in the computers USB circuit/motherboard. I took everything apart and reassembled a piece at a time… Nothing extra and the issue remains. . The manufacture of the motherboard has recommended sending it back to them which I may just have to do. I have already put way too much time into this problem. Thank you for your direction.
Hi Mike – gotcha.
Computers , eh? I used to be a computer journalist from the late 80s through to the late 90s. Wrote for dozens (and dozens) of mags across the world, edited another 4 in the UK, including a PC mag. Believe me when I say that I share your pain. I have the memories and the nightmares still 🙂
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HI Mike.
Im having the same issue. Did manage to resolve the issue?