{"product_id":"alpha-usb-reference","title":"Berkeley Audio Design Alpha USB Reference Series | The Grid","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"row sqs-row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col sqs-col-10 span-10\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" data-border-radii='{\"topLeft\":{\"unit\":\"px\",\"value\":0.0},\"topRight\":{\"unit\":\"px\",\"value\":0.0},\"bottomLeft\":{\"unit\":\"px\",\"value\":0.0},\"bottomRight\":{\"unit\":\"px\",\"value\":0.0}}' data-sqsp-block=\"text\" id=\"block-a6f891517852d94d315b\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-html-content\" data-sqsp-text-block-content=\"\"\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Audio Design Alpha USB Reference Series USB Digital Audio Interface\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Audio Design Alpha USB Reference Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a reference-grade \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB-to-AES\/EBU and USB-to-S\/PDIF digital audio interface\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, engineered to isolate a music server or computer from the DAC while completely reclocking the outgoing digital signal. It combines asynchronous USB 2.0 High Speed Audio, proprietary ultra-low phase-noise clock technology derived from the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, extreme electrical isolation, a dedicated linear power supply and selectable \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e110Ω AES\/EBU or 75Ω BNC S\/PDIF output\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRather than simply converting one digital connector to another, the Alpha USB Reference Series is designed to address \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB-source noise, clock timing and electrical contamination before the signal reaches the DAC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. It supports PCM up to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e24-bit\/192kHz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and is specifically optimized for modern Linux-based music servers, Apple Mac and Windows computers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUltra-Low Phase-Noise Reclocking\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Alpha USB Reference Series uses \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eultra-low phase-noise audio output master-clock technology developed for Berkeley's flagship Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncoming USB audio is not simply passed through to the digital output. Berkeley reclocks the signal before transmission through AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF, creating a new precision-timed digital output for the connected DAC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis architecture makes the Alpha USB Reference Series particularly relevant to DACs whose performance depends heavily on the quality and timing accuracy of their incoming AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF signal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eComplete USB-to-DAC Electrical Isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley places unusual emphasis on isolating the USB source from the DAC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB receiver and processing circuitry are powered by the connected USB source\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, while the output master clocks and AES\/EBU\/S\/PDIF line drivers operate from a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eseparate isolated linear power supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley specifies three forms of isolation between the USB input and digital output:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGalvanic \/ DC isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCapacitive isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInductive isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eno DC connection between the USB input and AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF output circuitry\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis prevents the Alpha USB Reference Series from becoming merely a physical bridge carrying server-generated electrical noise directly into the DAC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProprietary High-Speed, Low-Latency USB Software\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHardware isolation is only part of the design.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley developed proprietary \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB 2.0 High Speed Audio input software\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e optimized for modern high-speed, low-latency USB Audio drivers. The manufacturer identifies this software as one of the three fundamental technologies behind the Reference Series interface, alongside electrical isolation and ultra-low phase-noise output clocking. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis distinguishes the Alpha USB Reference Series from a generic USB-to-S\/PDIF converter built around an off-the-shelf USB receiver implementation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAsynchronous USB Audio 2.0 Input\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe rear panel provides a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Type-B asynchronous USB Audio 2.0 input\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe interface supports:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSampling Rates:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 44.1kHz through 192kHz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWord Length:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e up to 24-bit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eConnection:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e USB Type-B\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProtocol:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e USB Audio 2.0 High Speed \/ asynchronous \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Alpha USB Reference Series is designed for modern \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLinux-based music servers, Apple Mac and Windows PCs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSelectable AES\/EBU or 75Ω BNC S\/PDIF Output\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA front-panel \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOutput Select\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e switch determines which digital interface is active.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe available outputs are:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAES\/EBU:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 110Ω balanced XLR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eS\/PDIF:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 75Ω coaxial BNC \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is especially useful in a reference system because the preferred connection can be selected according to the DAC rather than being dictated by the source.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA green front-panel status LED confirms \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Lock\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, while amber indicates \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStandby\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhy Berkeley Keeps USB Outside the DAC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley's current Alpha DACs do not incorporate conventional USB inputs. Instead, the company separates USB reception and processing into the Alpha USB platform.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThat architecture allows the electrically noisy USB environment to be handled in a dedicated enclosure before the signal reaches the DAC. The Alpha USB Reference Series then supplies a newly reclocked AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF signal to the converter.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis makes the product particularly important when building a system around the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha DAC Reference Series 3P or Alpha DAC Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, both of which provide AES\/EBU, BNC S\/PDIF and Toslink inputs rather than USB. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-dac-reference-series-3p?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncreased Mass \u0026amp; Vibration Isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Reference Series advances beyond Berkeley's Alpha USB Series 2 with \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eincreased enclosure mass and improved vibration isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, in addition to the newer ultra-low phase-noise reclocking technology. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Reference model measures \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5.38 inches deep and weighs 2.8 pounds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, compared with 5 inches and 2.5 pounds for the Alpha USB Series 2. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe goal is greater mechanical stability for the precision clock and digital-output circuitry rather than simply making the enclosure larger.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDedicated Isolated Linear Power Supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Alpha USB Reference Series connects directly to AC mains and incorporates a dedicated \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eisolated linear power supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e for its output clocking and line-driver circuitry. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt accepts \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100V, 120V or 240V AC at 50\/60Hz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e through a standard IEC inlet and consumes only \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3 watts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley specifically designs the unit for \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003econtinuous operation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha USB Reference Series Technical Specifications\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpecification\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Alpha USB Reference Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduct Type\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Digital Audio Interface \/ Reclocking Noise Isolator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePrimary Function\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB-to-AES\/EBU or USB-to-S\/PDIF conversion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Architecture\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAsynchronous USB Audio 2.0 High Speed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Connector\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eType-B\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaximum Resolution\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e24-bit \/ 192kHz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSupported Sample Rates\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e44.1kHz–192kHz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOutput Clocking\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUltra-low phase-noise master clocks\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eClock Technology\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDerived from Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElectrical Isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGalvanic\/DC, capacitive and inductive\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eS\/PDIF Output\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e75Ω BNC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAES\/EBU Output\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e110Ω XLR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOutput Selection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFront-panel switch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Lock Indicator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen LED\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStandby Indicator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmber LED\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOperating Systems\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApple, Windows, Linux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOutput Circuit Power\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeparate isolated linear power supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB Receiver Power\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePowered by USB source\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e10.5\"W × 5.38\"D × 2.3\"H\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHeight Including Feet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2.88\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWeight\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2.8 lb\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMains Power\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100 \/ 120 \/ 240VAC, 50\/60Hz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAC Connection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIEC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3W\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContinuous Operation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIncluded Accessories\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUser Guide + 6' power cord\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese are Berkeley Audio Design's current published specifications for the Alpha USB Reference Series. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha USB Reference Series vs. Alpha USB Series 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha USB Series 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e already provides asynchronous USB input, galvanic\/capacitive\/inductive isolation, a separate linear supply for the output stage and selectable AES\/EBU or 75Ω BNC output. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb2?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha USB Reference Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e takes that architecture further with the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eultra-low phase-noise reclocking technology used in the Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, plus increased enclosure mass and vibration isolation. Berkeley positions the Reference model as its highest-performance implementation of the USB interface. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe headline format capability remains \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e24-bit\/192kHz\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. The Reference model's advancement is therefore about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003elower time-domain noise, improved reclocking and isolation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, not increasing the maximum advertised sampling rate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIdeal Partner for the Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Alpha USB Reference Series is particularly significant when paired with the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA USB-based reference system can be configured as:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMusic Server → USB → Alpha USB Reference Series → AES\/EBU or 75Ω BNC → Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe USB interface handles the electrically noisy server connection, isolates the source, reclocks the digital audio and then presents the Berkeley DAC with a precision AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF signal. Berkeley explicitly promotes the Alpha USB Reference Series and Reference Series 3P as a complementary digital front end. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com\/alpha-usb-reference-series?utm_source=chatgpt.com\"\u003eBerkeley Audio Design\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThat distinction is important for buyers comparing Berkeley with DACs offering built-in USB: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley intentionally makes the USB interface a separate reference component rather than placing the USB receiver inside its flagship DAC.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Alpha USB Reference Series at The Grid HiFi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Audio Design Alpha USB Reference Series\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is designed for digital systems where USB isolation and signal timing are treated as seriously as the DAC itself. It is particularly compelling for pairing a high-performance USB music server with the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerkeley Alpha DAC Reference Series 3P or Alpha DAC Series 3P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Grid HiFi can configure the complete Berkeley digital front end around the appropriate \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003emusic server, USB connection, 110Ω AES\/EBU or 75Ω BNC interface, DAC, amplification and loudspeakers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eConsidering the Berkeley Alpha USB Reference Series? Call The Grid HiFi at (713) 218-8120 to build the complete reference digital front end around it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Berkeley","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54229288911185,"sku":null,"price":5995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1047\/7178\/0945\/files\/USBRS_T1_cd5124f6-1922-45b8-b931-2c0e4c186be4.webp?v=1791129714","url":"https:\/\/gridhifi.com\/products\/alpha-usb-reference","provider":"The Grid","version":"1.0","type":"link"}