iFi Audio
iFi iDefender+ Ground Loop Eliminator
Best solution for audiophiles eliminating unwanted hum from computer audio setups.
The iFi iDefender+ is a USB ground loop isolator designed to eliminate audible hum and buzz caused by ground loops in audio systems. When connected to a source device's USB jack, it intelligently disconnects the computer's ground, eradicating noise and improving resolution and dynamic contrast. For USB-powered DACs, it can also inject clean 5V power from an external supply, bypassing noisy computer power. This latest version features upgraded circuitry with increased filtering capacitance and low-ESR tantalum capacitors for enhanced performance. It supports SuperSpeed USB 3.0 with gold-plated connectors for optimal signal transfer.
$59.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
134
/ 743
#134 in USB Adapters
Price vs Category Average
+17%
Above average
Dimensions
20.780.35
/ " (L) x " (W) x " (H)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles struggling with persistent hum or buzz in their system
- Listeners seeking improved detail and dynamics from their DAC
- Purists wanting to inject clean power into their audio chain
Who should skip it
- Users dealing with EMI or RFI interference issues
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding extra power supply costs
- Owners of sensitive or non-standard USB hardware configurations
Performance breakdown
Noise Floor Reduction
Effectively silences audible hum and buzz caused by ground loops.
Power Cleanliness
External power injection bypasses noisy computer rails for cleaner signal delivery.
Signal Integrity
USB 3.0 support ensures high-speed data transfer without compromising audio fidelity.
Build Quality
Compact, durable housing features premium gold-plated connectors for reliable contact.
Dynamic Range Enhancement
Lowering the noise floor reveals subtle textures and improved sonic contrast.
Ease of Integration
Plug-and-play design makes system cleanup simple for any desktop setup.
Key Specs
Dimensions
2" (L) x 0.78" (W) x 0.35" (H)
Weight
0.23 oz.
Cable Standard
USB 3.0, USB 2.0
Connector Type
USB, USB-C
Gold-plated connectors
Power Requirements
5V
Features
- Eliminates ground loops and USB power noise
- Significantly reduces system noise floor for improved clarity
- Enhances dynamic contrast, warmth, and resolution
- Injects clean 5V power for USB-powered DACs
- Upgraded circuitry with tenfold filtering capacitance
- SuperSpeed USB 3.0 with gold-plated connectors
What customers say
The iFi iDefender+ consistently earns praise for its remarkable effectiveness in eliminating unwanted ground loop noise from audio systems. Customers frequently highlight its straightforward plug and play operation, making it incredibly easy to integrate into existing setups. Many reviewers express genuine satisfaction with the noticeable improvement in sound clarity and detail, attributing a higher quality listening experience to this small device. Its reliability in delivering on its promise of cleaner audio is a recurring positive theme, reinforcing its strong value proposition for audiophiles and casual listeners alike seeking to purify their sound.
Know before you buy
A ground loop typically manifests as an audible hum, buzz, or whine coming from your speakers or headphones. If the noise disappears when you disconnect your computer from the power source or unplug the USB cable, a ground loop is the likely culprit.
It is compatible with most USB-powered DACs, but it is specifically designed to improve performance for those that rely on the USB bus for power. If your DAC uses its own dedicated power supply, the iDefender+ will still help eliminate ground loops, but it will not need to inject external power.
You only need an external 5V power supply if you want to bypass your computer’s noisy power rail entirely. If you are only using the iDefender+ to break a ground loop, it will function perfectly fine without an external power source.
No, the iDefender+ supports SuperSpeed USB 3.0 and is fully backward compatible with USB 2.0. It is designed to maintain high-speed data integrity while cleaning up the electrical signal.
Yes, the iDefender+ is available in different connector configurations to accommodate USB-A and USB-C ports. Ensure you select the version that matches your source device's output.
The latest version features significantly increased filtering capacitance and low-ESR tantalum capacitors. These upgrades provide better noise suppression and a lower noise floor compared to the original model, resulting in clearer audio and improved dynamic contrast.
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