Synergistic Research SRX XL USB Cable

Synergistic Research SRX XL USB Cable

The SRX XL USB Cable applies Synergistic Research's SRX XL cable platform to USB audio, addressing the added complexity of USB carrying both data and power while managing RF contamination from computer switching supplies and potential ground loops between source and DAC. Its architecture keeps signal and power delivery completely separate: two 6N pure silver conductors with PTFE dielectric handle the primary signal path, while separate medium-gauge silver AirStrings handle DC power delivery, isolated from the data lines. It's built on the same extended-duration high-voltage conditioning process as the rest of the SRX XL line. Its shield can be star-grounded to a Synergistic Research Ground Block or Active Ground Block (sold separately) for a further reduction in noise floor. Owners with a complete loom of SRX series cables can trade in for up to 70% credit toward SRX XL through the Lifetime Passport Protection Program. As an authorized Synergistic Research dealer in Toronto, Canada, Vinyl Sound can help you connect your computer or music server, including our Voodoo or Quark, to your DAC.

Key Features

• Complete separation between signal and power delivery — 2x 6N pure silver signal conductors, separate silver AirStrings for DC power
• Available for USB 2.0 (2x Air Strings) and USB 3.0 (6x Air Strings)
• SRX XL UEF Shielding with Graphene coating for RF rejection
• Ships standard with Gold and Silver carbon fibre UEF Tuning Bullets (work entirely outside the signal path)
• Can be star-grounded to a Synergistic Research Ground Block or Active Ground Block
• Trade-in eligible under the Lifetime Passport Protection Program (up to 70% credit from an existing SRX loom)

Tuning Modules

SRX XL USB Cables ship standard with Gold and Silver carbon fibre UEF Tuning Bullets. After letting the cable settle in for 48–72 hours, compare the two:

• Gold — warmer, more liquid balance; also open and transparent
• Silver — more extended and detailed

Technical Specifications

Press & Reviews

The SRX cable series (the predecessor to SRX XL) has been reviewed by major audio publications:

"[They] are superb imagers and soundstagers; [they] reproduce the dynamic range of recordings with high accuracy; [they] are astonishingly realistic sounding with great tapes, LPs, and streams; and both lower noises and colorations to unprecedented levels."
— Jonathan Valin, The Absolute Sound, January 2023

"When only one SRX power cord was used with the Synergistic Research PowerCell power conditioner to drive my entire system there was a clear correctness of presentation that had not previously been realized... If you audition the SRX, you may never go back."
— Robert Youman, Positive Feedback, August 2019

SRX XL USB FAQ

USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 — which do I need?
Match it to your DAC and source's USB port type. USB 3.0 uses more internal conductors (6 vs. 2 Air Strings) to support the additional data lines.

Why does it matter that signal and power are separated?
USB carries both data and power on the same connector by design. Keeping them on physically separate conductors is intended to reduce cross-contamination between power-supply noise and the audio data stream.

Should I use Gold or Silver tuning modules?
It's system-dependent — Gold tends toward warmth and liquidity, Silver toward extension and detail. Let the cable settle for 48–72 hours, then compare both.