Hiby AP10: USB Isolator for Noise-Free DAC Audio

The Hiby Digital AP10 was launched last Wednesday (25). The AP10’s primary functions are to isolate the audio data signal and the power supply from the USB port. It is a solution for users who experience ground noise and high-frequency interference. Below are all the details about this new release.

AP10 promises noise-free sound for your USB DAC or DAP

To deliver noise-free audio when connecting a USB DAC or DAP (Digital Audio Player) to a PC, Hiby Digital has introduced a USB-C hub called the AP10. The main objective of this product is to ensure clean music playback without interference, facilitating the perception of fine details present in recordings. See below for all the details about this product.

Attention: When we say “USB DAC” here, we are referring to devices with both a DAC and an internal amplifier (DAC/amp). In other words, you need both digital data for the DAC and power for the amplifier.

What is the main function of the AP10?

The main function of the Hiby AP10 is to isolate both the audio signal and the power supply transmitted through the computer’s USB port. However, it also features multiple USB-C and USB-A connections, in addition to an SD card reader.

Not all ports provide signal and power isolation

To achieve isolation of both the audio data signal and the power supply, it is necessary to use two specific USB ports on the AP10.

The external power input port, labeled “power in,” is a USB-C port located next to the USB-C connection used to connect the AP10 to the computer. You may connect either a power bank or a wall charger. The AP10’s power input specification is 5V/900mA, capable of delivering up to 4.5W.

The USB port used for audio data transmission is USB-A and is positioned next to a USB-C port, on the opposite side of the SD card reader. It is labeled “USB DAC” for easier identification.

How audio data signal isolation is implemented in the AP10

Digital signal isolation is achieved through a chipset known as the Analog Devices ADUM4165BRIZ. It helps eliminate ground loops to remove “hum” noise, while also reducing high-frequency interference.

Independent power supply

Power supply isolation is implemented through an isolated DC-DC converter module called the Evisun B0505XT-2WR3. This component helps physically eliminate ground loop noise and power supply ripple [1]. As a result, the power becomes “cleaner,” with fewer fluctuations, spikes, or voltage drops.

According to Hiby, the use of a dedicated USB port exclusively for power input prevents “throttling [2], disconnections, or voltage drops.” This helps ensure the integrity of transmitted data.

[1] Ripple is a type of noise characterized by residual oscillation generated after the rectification and filtering of a power supply.

[2] Throttling is a mechanism designed to reduce voltage or clock speed when hardware is subjected to excessive temperatures.

Other ways to prevent noise and interference

There are other methods to avoid noise and interference in transmitted audio signals. Check out possible approaches to prevent this type of issue in an article published on Hi-Fi Hub.

Hiby Digital AP10: Specifications

• Audio USB port: one USB-A
• Body material: aluminum and glass panel
• Color: White
• Dimensions: 9.4 cm × 4.2 cm × 1.6 cm
• Memory card slot: SD-3.0 UHS-I
• Power USB port: USB-C (5V/4A; 5V/500mA)
• USB port for PC connection: one USB-C
• USB ports for general use: one USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 and one USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
• Weight: 81.2 g

Release, price, and availability

The Hiby Digital AP10 is now available in white for $79 at Hiby’s official store on AliExpress.