PA1 Series | Soundaware USA

Audiophile's Dream: Sonic Serenity

SOUNDAWARE's revolutionary product for USB and network regeneration

Reference USB and Network Regenerator

PA1-REF

Low Phase Noise Crystal Oscilator | Constant Temperature Control | Reference Supercapacitor

Unleash the power of audio perfection with PA1-REF, the ultimate USB and network regenerator. Drawing inspiration from the acclaimed AMC D2, this cutting-edge peripheral shares its exceptional design DNA. Featuring the SOUNDAWARE Patented USB REGEN Architecture, specifically tailored for high-end audio systems, the PA1-REF takes incoming USB data, applies FIFO buffering, and regenerates it using its built-in high-speed RAM and low phase noise crystal oscillator, meticulously temperature-controlled at 40°C. With the unrivaled power of the SOUNDAWARE Reference Supercapacitor, this device effortlessly eliminates noise and interference, surpassing all other PA1 models. Experience the transformative impact of the ultra-low-jitter, regenerated USB output signal, as it takes your digital front end performance to new heights. As the flagship model, the PA1-REF is an absolute must-have for audiophiles seeking unparalleled audio quality. Embark on an extraordinary sonic journey like never before.

Why is the sound of HIFI products connected to consumer electronics products significantly worse?

I feel uncomfortable after listening for a long time, even have a headache
sound stimulation
dirty sound
Loss of details, poor dynamics, unsmooth sound

Why do these situations occur when consumer electronics products are connected to HIFI products?

Noise Interference on Power and Ground and Data Signals

What does the noise affect in the experiment?

Severe noise affects the known indicators of audio products, such as severe noise on power and ground lines. The noise in the high-speed data signal produces large radiation interference and directly interferes with the HIFI data receiving chip, thereby interfering with the whole machine and making the hearing uncomfortable.

Common noise reduction solutions?

1. For filtering, common-mode/differential-mode inductors or high-frequency capacitors are used to absorb noise higher than the frequency as much as possible, but noise close to the frequency or lower than the operating frequency cannot be eliminated.

2. Isolation, using an isolation transformer or optocoupler conversion, can isolate the ground loop in the data interface and the interference between them, but the interference at the source cannot be eliminated. inhibition. This type is mainly to solve the problem that the loop between the peripheral interfaces or the crosstalk between each other affects the normal operation of the device, and the noise at the source cannot be effectively eliminated.

3. A fusion of above.

The current common solutions cannot meet the needs of HIFI?

For example, filtering and isolation only have a certain inhibitory effect on noise far beyond the frequency, and reduce mutual interference between the same peripherals. There is almost no way to noise on the operating frequency. For high-frequency USB and networks, these High-speed noise still has a huge impact.

Local regeneration of signal and power is a reference class of noise reducation solution!

Signal regeneration converts the original audio data signal into memory data, using clean power, HIFI design, and an independent clock to generate a remarkably clean signal and power from the source. This approach represents a more complex and costly solution, commonly found in off-the-shelf HIFI-level network switches. These switches store received network data in the switch's ARM/DSP memory before regenerating the network signal based on the IP and forwarding it to a specific host. For a true HIFI design, the switch should include a linear or more advanced HIFI power supply, an independent HIFI clock, and minimize interference during the input signal-to-data process. This ensures genuine HIFI-level ultra-low noise signal quality output.

Soundaware’s PA1 is a USB and network reference-level patented noise reduction solution based on regeneration

This patent is based on USB input, after shielding, isolation, filtering, with local luxury power supply, HIFI level design and independent clock for USB regeneration, at the same time, the network output is also based on the output of this USB regeneration for secondary regeneration output, Thus more clean.

Patent No.: 202122788168.1

Based on this patent, a more luxurious solution than the patent is actually adopted!

Audio-grade double low-noise clock, high-precision solution, supplemented by 40-degree core crystal oscillator and constant temperature design of the chip, so that the actual output accuracy of the crystal oscillator is higher, and the crystal oscillator and chip work more stable.

Low phase noise double crystal oscillator

40-degree constant temperature

Independent power and regen module

Noise Reduction: The Foundational Element, but Not the Sole Determinant!

Delving deeper, we discover that higher delay can significantly compromise the stability of data transmission. This instability, in turn, affects the performance of electrodes utilized in HIFI receiving products, resulting in an abundance of unwanted noise. Hence, even with the presence of a HIFI switch, the distinct sound characteristics across various NAS setups persist.

Furthermore, as delay increases, so do the cache requirements for the back-end HIFI receiving products. In extreme cases, this can lead to disruptive popping or interruptions. The modern landscape of audio playback necessitates real-time considerations, making extensive caching unfeasible.

Presently, most HIFI USB receiving chips offer a buffer time of <=250μs. However, if data transmission is unstable or the delay is substantial, interruptions and noise easily ensue.

Given the inherent need to convert the signal into memory data and generate it with an independent clock, a certain degree of delay is inevitable. Hence, a solution with lower delay proves to be the optimal choice.

Enter the PA1, boasting an astonishingly low delay measured in the ns-level. It serves as a noteworthy reference-level delay solution within the industry. Operating at the kernel driver layer, it sets itself apart from HIFI switches that function at the IP application layer, resulting in delays measured in the ms-level.

Power Supply: The Crucial Source and Foundation for PA1, Unlocking Distinctive Audio Effects

Supercapacitor Reference Version:

With a rated current of 5V 5A, 5V 0.5xwh, 2.x milliohm discharge capacity, and an instantaneous internal resistance of 1.x milliohm. The enhanced version of D300REF power type super capacitor power supply sets new standards, this remarkable power supply boasts a significant improvement, with an internal resistance that is 1/3 lower than its predecessor. Not only that, but the charging speed has also been doubled, ensuring an even more efficient and reliable performance. Experience the true potential of power with the enhanced D300REF power type super capacitor, revolutionizing your audio experience.

Alternative Linear Power Supply Version:

Integrated HI-END switch charging + reference linear regulated output power solution, harnessing LP1 technology. This innovative solution incorporates the same cutting-edge technology found in LP1. It features a built-in 40μV RMS ultra-low noise single current regulator module, delivering exceptional performance. The linear regulated output boasts an impressively low DC internal resistance of just 5 milliohms. Experience the pinnacle of power excellence with this integrated HI-END solution, providing both switch charging and reference linear regulated output.

PA1-USB

USB Regenerator

PA1-NU

USB & Network Regenerator

How to connect?

USB:

USB Source

PA1 USB B

PA1 USB A

DAC

External USB Storage

PA1 USB A

PA1 USB B

Streamer

Network:

USB Source

PA1 USB B

PA1 RJ45

Network DAC

* Suggestion: Please use HIFI cables that is 4n and above for better results when connecting HIFI products.

* Note: Some mobile phones or linux webcasts cannot support the conversion from USB to Ethernet port due to driver reasons, please consider carefully.