TECHNOLOGY GLOSSARY
DTCD® Analysis is a proprietary measurement technique designed to evaluate instantaneous current flow through extremely low-impedance electrical conductors and contacts. This method optimises the design of electrical components, ensuring peak instantaneous current delivery. DTCD® Analysis provides Shunyata Research with a distinct competitive edge in developing high-performance power delivery products.
NOISE REDUCTION
NR Noise Reduction: Shunyata Research’s exclusive NR (Noise Reduction) technology is a multi-stage filter network that measurably reduces power-line and component-generated noise, producing better purity of tone and clarity. It delivers a stunning background of silence to recordings, allowing the listener to hear into recordings as never before. Every nuance of meaningful content is revealed, bringing to life music’s most consequential moments as if the performers are in the room with the listener.
CCI™ filters are uniquely designed to reduce component-generated power line noise without compromising DTCD® (Dynamic Transient Current Delivery). These advanced filter elements prevent noise from one component from contaminating other connected electronics. Shunyata Research’s CCI™ filter modules feature proprietary multi-stage designs that eliminate power supply-generated noise without relying on heavy transformers, coils, or large capacitors.
The NIC™ (Noise Isolation Chamber) is a patented device developed by Shunyata Research to reduce high-frequency power line noise. It utilises a ferroelectric material that absorbs noise without the reactive drawbacks of transformers or large capacitors found in traditional power conditioners.
~ Patent US 8,658,892 ~
The ZrCa-2000™ is a proprietary ferroelectric crystalline compound used in NICs to absorb and dissipate high-frequency noise in power conditioners and power supplies. While ferrite materials act on magnetic fields to reduce noise, ZrCa-2000™ operates on the electric field, delivering the same noise-absorbing benefits without the sonic drawbacks often associated with ferrite in audio systems.
~ Patents US 8,658,892 and US 6,242,689 ~
Distributed Power Conditioning is a solution developed by Shunyata Research to address power line noise in large, complex entertainment and pro-audio systems. Such systems often involve multiple components spread across different locations, making a single-box power conditioner impractical.
Shunyata Research intercepts noise at multiple power line entry and exit points within the system. By combining noise reduction technologies—including power conditioners, NR power cords, and compact outlet filters—system-wide CCI™ interference is effectively minimised.
The CGS (Chassis Grounding System) is an internal ground-bus that incorporates patented NIC™ technology to reduce ground plane noise. It provides a common grounding point, extending the power conditioner’s NIC noise reduction capabilities to connected components. CGS minimises inter-component voltage differences and can help reduce hum caused by ground loops.
PROPRIETARY & PATENTED
KPIP™ v2 (Kinetic Phase Inversion Process) is a technology developed by Caelin Gabriel after extensive research into phenomena like burn-in, wire directionality, and the effects of cryogenic treatment. Gabriel identified a core principle that burn-in and cryogenics only partially addressed. This discovery led to the creation of a processing technique and machine that virtually eliminates the need for both burn-in and cryogenic treatment.
The QR/BB™ is a patented device that significantly enhances dynamic impact and timing in amplifiers and other high-current electronics. It uniquely provides a local energy reserve, or Coulomb charge, to counteract the inductive reactance of the AC power line without relying on coils, transformers, or capacitors. Positioned in line with an AC power supply, the QR/BB™ serves as an instantaneous energy source.
— Patent Number: US 10,031,536 —
Common-mode noise differs from differential noise and is significantly harder to measure and eliminate. To achieve the purest signal, Shunyata Research developed the CMode filter, which effectively reduces common-mode noise without the sonic compression typical of conventional filters. This innovation minimises high-frequency noise distortion, delivering analogue-like ease and a silent background that bridges the gap between digital and analogue systems.
Shunyata Research operates an on-site Cryogenics International Computer-controlled cryogenic facility. Using liquid nitrogen, the process reduces the temperature of materials to -320°F, with the computer lowering it one degree at a time to prevent thermal shock. This advanced technique enhances the performance of wires, conductors, connectors, and terminals used in Shunyata’s power products and signal cabling.
Crimping, soldering, brazing, and cold soldering are less effective methods for joining wires or terminals. Sonic welding, by contrast, uses high-energy sound waves to bond two metals together at a molecular level without the need for solder or intermediary materials.
TERMINALS
The SR-USB Cable by Shunyata Research is engineered for uncompromising performance, addressing the shortcomings of conventional USB cables. It features ArNi® wire with pure OHNO copper in a VTX™ geometry and fluorocarbon dielectrics for optimal signal transfer. The power wiring is specifically designed for DC power delivery, minimising interference with signal transmission. Massive silver-plated copper braided shields protect delicate signals from external RFI/EMI, ensuring unmatched sonic clarity and precision.
The STIS™ (Speaker Terminal Interchangeable System) eliminates the high cost and complexity of speaker cable termination. It allows the same speaker cable to be used with various amplifiers and speakers, and damaged spades can be replaced without requiring factory re-termination. STIS™ interchangeable terminals have undergone extensive listening tests, ensuring audio performance equal to or better than non-replaceable soldered terminals.
Many audiophile-grade connectors use brass or bronze as their base metal, with only a thin plating of silver, gold, or rhodium. However, the majority of current is conducted through the base metal. CopperCONN® connectors feature pure copper contacts, offering significantly higher conductivity than brass, resulting in a clearly audible improvement in performance.
Ring terminals, spades, bolts, and washers used to connect internal wiring, terminals, and switches are often dismissed as “Trivial parts” by some engineers. However, Shunyata Research designs and manufactures a wide range of these components using pure copper instead of tinned brass. This meticulous attention to even the smallest details sets Shunyata Research products apart.
VIBRATION MANAGEMENT
After extensive research into the adverse effects of vibration, Shunyata Research developed its Vibration isolation technology using sub-miniature accelerometers to measure the impact of floor and airborne sound waves precisely. This research led to the creating of vibration-absorbing materials, including energy-dampening footers, AC outlet gaskets, and chassis dampeners that minimise resonant vibration. Recognising the importance of vibration control to overall performance, Shunyata designs its chassis with optimally dampened steel and aluminium, avoiding plastic or thin-wall sheet metals.
Power distributors, like power amplifiers, are highly sensitive to vibration. Using the Shunyata vibration analyser, Caelin Gabriel developed the Shunyata Isolation Footer, designed for exceptional vibration damping. Shunyata Research also offers SSF (Stainless Steel Feet), which incorporate energy-absorbing polymers. These feet are standard on select models and optionally available for others.
Shunyata Research’s Carbon-fibre headshells are expertly designed to minimise micro-vibration-induced distortion, offering exceptionally silent performance. Their rigid construction enhances structural integrity and vibration dampening, significantly elevating the audio experience. This application of carbon fibre technology reflects Shunyata Research's commitment to high-performance audio solutions, blending durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal to meet the standards of audiophiles and professionals
SIGNAL TRANSMISSION
HARP™ was developed through Gabriel’s research into ‘current drift’ and audio-frequency current resonances in speaker cables. These resonances, analogous to standing waves in room acoustics, can degrade audio performance. The HARP™ module acts as a current-mode diffraction device, disrupting these resonances to enhance the system's perceived resolution and coherence.
TAP™ (Transverse Axial Polarizer) is a device that interacts with the electromagnetic field generated by the signal travelling through a cable. By modifying the behaviour of the electromagnetic wave, TAP™ enhances sonic performance. It blocks longitudinal-oriented waves while allowing transverse-oriented waves to pass, much like polarised sunglasses reduce glare by filtering reflected sunlight. This correction of polarisation micro-distortion reduces what is often described as sonic glare.
ΞTRON® is a proprietary technology developed by Shunyata Research to eliminate dielectric absorption and re-radiation in signal transmission. It utilises a specialised conductor with dual signal paths and an electric field compensation circuit that generates a cancellation signal, preventing the insulation from developing a charge. ΞTRON® cables maintain the integrity of the source signal, even over very long cable runs.
US Patent: US8912436B2 // China Patent: ZL2011800473442 // German Patent: 601011046558.9 // UK Patent: 2622612
WIRE & CABLE
ArNi® is a proprietary wire developed by Shunyata Research, designed to deliver unparalleled performance for audio applications. It begins with the purest copper available—OFE C10100 or Ohno (single crystal)—and is formed into virtual hollow tubes to eliminate skin effects and eddy current distortions. Premium fluorocarbon insulation further enhances performance by minimising dielectric absorption and re-radiation, significantly improving resolution and clarity. To maximise its sonic capabilities, the wire undergoes Shunyata’s proprietary KPIP™ V2 process.
Shunyata Research’s exclusive VTX™ conductors are precision-engineered with a hollow, tube-like structure. This innovative design eliminates the core, minimising skin effects and reducing random eddy currents for superior performance. Crafted from OFE Alloy-101, these conductors ensure exceptional conductivity and signal integrity.
Shunyata’s VTX-Ag™ cables feature a pure silver inner conductor and a pure copper outer concentric ring. This design combines the speed and clarity of silver with the warmth and powerful low-frequency performance of copper, avoiding their typical drawbacks. With premium fluorocarbon insulation to reduce dielectric absorption, VTX-Ag delivers exceptional resolution and clarity, exemplifying a balance of precision and musicality in cable performance.
Shunyata Research digital cables are designed using the Precision Matched Z (PMZ) concept, where "Z" stands for impedance. This approach guarantees exceptionally tight tolerances in the quality of the conductor's surface, the extrusion of the dielectric, and the precision of the shielding. To achieve these high standards, the extrusion and braiding machines operate at one-quarter of their normal speed during manufacturing. As a result, there is a significant reduction in cable-induced signal jitter, which enhances digital performance.
Ohno wire, also known as PCOCC, was developed in 1986 by Professor Atsumi Ohno of the Chiba Institute of Technology in Japan. Unlike conventional copper wire, produced through an extrusion process that creates multiple crystalline boundaries, Ohno wire is formed using heated moulds. This casting method creates a single-crystal structure, producing exceptional purity and eliminating grain boundaries. Renowned for its grain-free sonic qualities, Ohno wire delivers unparalleled clarity and performance in audio applications.
Shunyata Research uses only the highest-purity copper for its wire products. OFE Alloy 101 (C10100) is the pinnacle of copper quality, boasting a minimum purity of 99.99% and a conductivity rating of 101% IACS. OFE stands for oxygen-free electrolytic, a standard that surpasses the older term OFHC (oxygen-free high conductivity). C10100 is the only copper grade accompanied by a written purity certification verified by ASTM F68 standards.
Fluorocarbon dielectrics are usually only found in wire used in the aerospace industry, satellites and only the most expensive audiophile cabling. It has special electrical characteristics; very low dielectric absorption, high dielectric strength and exceptional heat resistance. When used in audio and power cables is reduces the perception of dynamic compression and it improves sonic low-level resolution and clarity.
The Gen3 NR circuit, featured in our reference tier power cords, enhances the sonic performance compared to the Gen2 circuit. This improvement includes significant gains in transient speed, transparency, and purity, along with better micro-dynamics. Additionally, the new NR circuit is more compatible with a wider range of electronic components, including both preamplifiers and power amplifiers. Even amplifiers that operate in pure Class A will experience notable benefits when using Gen3 NR-equipped power cables.