KGUSS Topping HS02 USB 2.0 Audio Isolator - withstands up to 1500VDC, USB-B and Type-C Input, USB-A and Type-C Output, Compatible with PCM32bit 768kHz DSD512

This device works as advertised. It is similar to the iFi iGalvanic 3.0 which I've enjoyed for several years. However, that device failed twice and a replacement is no longer available. The Topping HS02 sounds about equal to the iGalvanic 3.0 when it worked. This device is much more affordable and appears to be bullet-proof. It does improve low-level detail retrieval and yields a larger sound stage on many DACs. It's a great value!

I have a spectrum analyzer hooked up as part of my speaker chain—it’s fed directly from the RCA output of my preamp (the power amps are fed from the XLR output). I was seeing noise occur on the spectrum analyzer whenever the streamer was busy or loaded (such as when scrolling long playlists and such). I read some of the other reviews stating that this device eliminated the noise they were seeing from their sources (usually PCs set up as streamers), so I figured I’d get one and give it a try. It came in, I hooked it up between my streamer and my DAC, and fired it up. Well golly-gee-Willy, it really worked! Zero noise showing up on my spectrum analyzer no matter how crazy I got on the streamer controls! To make sure I wasn’t crazy, I removed it and the noise came back, so this thing legitimately eliminated electronic noise from passing to the DAC from the source!

I recently added a Spark 40 amp to my setup, and as soon as I connected it to my computer via USB, I got a lot of computer noise through the Spark. When using both compression and boost on the Compadre pedal going into the Spark, the noise became absolutely intolerable.The first product I tried as a solution was the iDefender+ C > A which is supposed to be backward compatible with USB 2 but did not work with the Spark 40.I just received the HS02, connected it, and it works! The Spark 40 is detected, and there is very little computer noise with both compression and boost engaged on the Compadre pedal which naturally adds a fair amount of other noise anyway. With only compression engaged, the noise is very quiet, and with only boost or neither compression nor boost, the noise is pretty much inaudible.By the way, I have found that without connecting any additional power, the HS02 is able to supply sufficient power for a small hub with 2 self-powered devices connected to the hub.The unit is smaller than it seems in the picture, andIt is not getting in the way of other things on my desk.Since I just received the HS02, I can not yet say anything about its long-term reliability. Its build quality seems good though. USB plugs fit smoothly and snugly, and the case is obviously not in any danger of ever coming apart.

Update: I replaced it with another unit. After approximately 24 hours of use, I haven't encountered any random failures so far. However, more time is needed to truly assess its reliability. I also noticed other reviews mentioning stability issues, so it seems this isn't an isolated case. I think I'll stick with a one-star rating because, as a USB isolator, its price is already one to two times higher than other brands.I've used several USB isolators from different brands and price ranges—either they work well, or they don’t. But this is the first time I've come across one with such instability, especially given that others have reported similar issues. For a product at this price point, it’s clear that quality control has not been adequately maintained.Unstable. When it works, it works well... but it stops working after about an hour. Other times, it lasts 3-4 hours. Each time, I have to restart my computer for it to work again. There's no other way.. Maybe I should try another one.

I have an external audio interface, the Arturia AudiFuse Studio. It uses a USB-C connection and worked great for months until I upgraded the video card on my PC to an Nvidia 4060. Whenever the GPU was under load, the audio interface would screech horribly. This was no ground loop, but EMI coming from the PC, due to the video card creating noise on the PCI bus. I ordered this item hopeful that this would fix the problem and it absolutely worked. My audio interface is deathly quiet when it should be regardless of what the GPU is doing. The only downside to this device is its price, but I refuse to lower my review because it works perfectly.

This USB Isolator did nothing to fix the audio cracks/pops that i have when trying to use a USB DAC connected to a 2023 Samsung QN90C 43in Tizen tv. DAC is a Qudelix 5K.Tried every combination of cables, powered and un-powered mode, ports, various usb power adapters etc.DAC works fine with no such issues on everything else i use it via usb on, PC, MAC, iphone/ipad.Either this kind of of device does nothing, or it be something with the TV and its usb audio output, drivers, SOC etc... i not sure.I also connected this device in line between my PC and DAC, I have a few other DACS, and noticed no change whatsoever, even with no sound playing, and max volume, to hear any noise/hum/squeal etc. nothing. Though, this device did cause my Fosi Audio Q4 to have a loud constant pulsating popping noise and did not allow audio to work, though the PC did recognize the DAC still.At this point, it is just a expensive usb switch. (since u can select what output is active)