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Overview

Product Highlights

Introducing the Alpha USB Series 2

The Alpha USB Series 2 is a noise isolating, reclocking digital audio interface with asynchronous USB 2.0 High Speed Audio input software optimized to connect to modern streamer/servers with a USB 2.0 High Speed Audio output.

The Alpha USB Series 2 builds on the strengths of the Alpha USB with new proprietary USB 2.0 High Speed Audio input software optimized for modern high speed, low latency USB 2.0 High Speed Audio drivers. The result is very significantly improved audio quality.

The Alpha USB Series 2 has a USB 2.0 High Speed Audio input data connection and a switch selectable output signal type – either coaxial SPDIF using a 75Ω BNC connector or balanced AES using an XLR connector. Sampling rates up to 192kHz and word lengths up to 24-bit are supported. 

Great care was taken in the design of the Alpha USB Series 2 to isolate streamer/server noise on the USB input from the AES/SPDIF digital audio output. The USB input receiver and processor are powered by the USB input source, while the AES/SPDIF digital audio output master clocks and line drivers are powered by a separate isolated linear power supply. There is also no DC connection and a very high degree of capacitive and inductive isolation between the USB input and the AES/SPDIF digital audio output.

Three key factors combine to achieve the unmatched audio performance of the Alpha USB Series 2; new high speed, low latency input software, an unprecedented degree of electrical isolation between the USB input and the AES/SPDIF digital audio output and very low phase noise/low jitter individually tested audio output master clocks.  

The Alpha USB Series 2 is designed to work with modern Linux based music servers and Apple Macintosh and Windows PC computers. For Linux, the operating system must be ALSA 1.0.23 or above and also have the ability to select the output device. Apple computers using Snow Leopard or later operating systems interface directly with the Alpha USB Series 2 as do PC’s using Microsoft Windows 10 release 1703 and above.

A User Guide and 6’ power cord are included with the Alpha USB Series 2. 




Controls & Indicators

  • Output Select: switch selects SPDIF or AES type outputs

  • Status LED: Green indicates USB Lock, Amber indicates Standby

Specifications

  • Input: USB Audio 2.0 Standard asynchronous connection, type B receptacle

  • Outputs: switch selectable, coaxial SPDIF on 75Ω BNC connector or balanced AES on 110Ω XLR connector

  • Supported sampling rates: 44.1kHz to 192kHz

  • Supported word lengths: up to 24-bit

  • Supported operating systems: Apple, Windows and Linux

  • Enclosure dimensions: 2.3”H X 10.5”W x 5”D, 2.55”H including feet

  • Weight: 2.5 lbs.

  • Mains power: 100/120/240VAC, 50/60Hz, IEC power input connector

  • Power consumption: 3W, designed for continuous operation

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Do you price match?

Yes. We match any authorised dealer, including big-box retailers. If you find the same product at a lower price, contact us and we'll match it.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — free shipping on every order, with 2-day delivery available on most products. Easy returns and exchanges are included.

Where is your showroom?

We're at 6362 Alder Drive, Houston, Texas. The showroom lets you hear and compare reference-level systems in person before making any decisions. If you're considering a larger purchase or installation, it's well worth the visit.

Can I buy online without visiting the showroom?

Yes. The full product range is available through the online store with free nationwide shipping. For more complex system builds, speaking with one of our advisers first tends to lead to a better result.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Special financing is available through the BrandSource Credit Card for qualifying purchases, allowing you to spread payments over time with no annual fee. Promotional rebate savings are also available periodically. See the financing page for full details.

Do you install systems as well as sell equipment?

Yes — installation is central to what we do. We design and install whole-home audio and video, home theaters, media rooms, outdoor audio, lighting and motorised shades, and full smart home automation.

Do you provide support after installation?

Yes. We provide ongoing service and support to ensure systems continue performing as intended — not just on installation day, but over the long term.