Today, we’re excited to introduce JDS Labs Synapse Max, bringing the same UAC2 isolation technology of Synapse to bus-powered audio interfaces and DACs. Synapse Max delivers up to 1000mA of clean, isolated USB power.
Why Synapse Max?
When we designed Synapse, we optimized for size and compatibility with our own DACs, which do not consume USB power. Limiting Synapse to 100mA maximum output allowed a smaller transformer, which fit into a smaller enclosure.
It turns out that Synapse is incredibly useful for those running audio interfaces or DACs from other brands. Many of these devices are bus powered, drawing 500mA or more from the USB port, meaning they could not be used with Synapse.
Synapse MAX uses the same 480mbps isolation technology, but with 10x higher output power capacity than Synapse.
Hardware Overview
Synapse MAX maintains the same core architecture, now feeding a larger transformer rated for 5000 VRMS. Output of the larger transformer feeds a TPS737 linear regulator for up to 1A of current:
We plan to keep the original Synapse in production because it remains perfect for low-power USB devices. If you’re using JDS Labs DACs or a device which consumes less than 100mA, the original Synapse is all you need. Choose Synapse Max for use with bus powered interfaces and DACs.
Enclosure and Accessories
Like the original, Synapse MAX is available in a CNC’ed Al 6061 enclosure with a tinted glass top surface. For your convenience, Synapse Max ships with a braided, red USB C-to-C cable and adapters for converting to or from USB A.
Synapse MAX is in stock and ships today!
This is a great upgrade for those of us using bus-powered audio interfaces. The jump to 1000mA should make a huge difference in powering devices reliably. I wonder how it compares to similar solutions on the market in terms of audio quality and isolation?