SHUNYATA RESEARCH ALTAIRA X GROUND SYSTEM
The Altaira-X Ground System from Shunyata Research is a reference-level solution for reducing ground-borne noise in high-performance audio systems. Featuring eight independently filtered isolation zones, proprietary TAPc™ and NIC™ technologies, and platinum-plated solid copper terminals, Altaira-X dramatically lowers noise floor, improves resolution, and enhances system-wide clarity, timing, and musical realism for analog and digital components alike.
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ALTAIRA X GROUND SYSTEM
The Altaira-X Ground System is the ultimate expression of ground-noise reduction technology from Shunyata Research, engineered for reference-level recording, mastering, and high-end listening systems seeking the lowest possible noise floor and maximum component isolation. Building upon the award-winning Altaira Ground System, Altaira-X represents a decisive advancement in grounding science, delivering a dramatic increase in noise reduction, clarity, and system-wide coherence.
At the heart of Altaira-X is an advanced eight-terminal architecture that creates a profoundly quiet electrical foundation. Each terminal is independently filtered, allowing connected components to operate in isolation—free from inter-component noise transfer—while preserving signal purity across the entire system.
AN ALL-IN-ONE 'X' STATEMENT GROUND HUB
Altaira-X is a comprehensive eight-post ground hub designed to support the majority of reference audio systems within a single chassis. Its sophisticated internal architecture provides unprecedented filtration at every terminal, enabling users to connect both chassis-grounded and signal-grounded components simultaneously—without requiring special configuration or manual separation.
Each terminal automatically maintains the electrical isolation necessary to prevent ground-plane contamination. The result is a system in which every component operates on its own island of calm, dramatically reducing noise migration and preserving resolution, dynamics, and tonal integrity.
ADVANCING THE SCIENCE OF GROUND NOISE REDUCTION
Altaira-X integrates multiple proprietary technologies, each addressing a specific form of ground-related distortion. Together, they create a cumulative effect that far exceeds conventional grounding solutions.
 | Altaira-X incorporates Shunyata’s patent-pending TAPc™ technology, which couples directly to the electromagnetic fields surrounding conductors. Acting as a passive electromagnetic polarizer, TAPc™ reduces EMI-related distortion that would otherwise blur timing, compress dynamics, and obscure fine detail.
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 | The NIC™ (Noise Isolation Chamber) is a patented Shunyata Research device that reduces high frequency power line noise. It employs a ferroelectric substance that actually absorbs high frequency noise without any of the reactive negatives associated with transformers and large capacitors as used in conventional power conditioners. ~ Patent US 8,658,892 ~ |
 | Platinum-Plated Solid Copper Terminals All ground connection points are machined from solid copper and finished with platinum plating, minimizing contact resistance while delivering exceptional tonal purity. Fine detail is revealed without harshness, preserving clarity, contrast, and dimensional integrity across the entire frequency spectrum. |
 | KPIP v2™ Shunyata Research’s proprietary Kinetic Phase Inversion Process includes four days of continuous KPIP v2™ processing which refines conductor metals at the atomic level. This dramatically reduces burn-in time and significantly improves sonic performance, delivering a relaxed and life-like presentation. When compared to the original process, KPIP v2™ represents a dramatic performance upgrade on par with a component-level upgrade. |
Enhanced High-Frequency Noise Filtering
Altaira-X features increased levels of high-frequency filtration, creating a labyrinth of silence that allows subtle musical detail and low-level spatial information to emerge with greater realism and contrast.
‘X’ Ground Cables – Completing the Reference System
Altaira-X is complemented by Shunyata’s ‘X’ Ground Cables, engineered to deliver the lowest-resistance ground connection possible between components and the hub. These cables feature:
- Pure silver conductors
- KPIP v2™ processing for improved conductivity and reduced burn-in
- Integrated TAPc™ and CMode™ modules for EMI and common-mode noise reduction
Together, the Altaira-X hub and ‘X’ Ground Cables form a complete grounding system capable of delivering unmatched resolution, stability, and musical realism.
SONIC PERFORMANCE
In reference systems, the Altaira-X Ground System delivers:
- Dramatically lower perceived noise floor
- Greater image stability and soundstage depth
- Enhanced micro-detail and low-level resolution
- Improved dynamic contrast and timing precision
- Increased sense of realism and musical immersion
The effect is system-wide, benefiting source components, amplification, and digital and analog playback chains alike.
SPECIFICATIONS
Power Requirements: None Number of Terminals: 8 Isolation Zones: 8 Noise Reduction: Earth Ground Isolation: | Vibration Control: Construction: Dimensions: Weight: |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the Altaira-X Ground System do?
Altaira-X reduces ground-related electrical noise that degrades resolution, timing, and dynamics in high-performance audio systems. By isolating each connected component, it lowers the overall noise floor and improves system-wide clarity and realism.
How is Altaira-X different from standard grounding solutions?
Unlike basic grounding blocks, Altaira-X provides eight independently filtered isolation zones using proprietary technologies such as TAPc™ and NIC™, preventing noise transfer between components and preserving signal integrity.
Can Altaira-X be used with both analog and digital components?
Yes. Altaira-X is designed to support both analog and digital components, including turntables, DACs, streamers, preamplifiers, and power amplifiers, within a single system.
Does Altaira-X require an earth ground connection?
No. Altaira-X operates independently of external earth grounding and does not require connection to household ground, making it suitable for a wide range of installation environments.
How many components can be connected to Altaira-X?
Altaira-X provides eight ground terminals, allowing the majority of reference audio systems to be fully grounded from a single hub.
Do I need special configuration or matching of terminals?
No. Each terminal in Altaira-X is automatically filtered and isolated, allowing users to mix chassis-grounded and signal-grounded components without manual configuration.
Does Altaira-X require burn-in time?
Altaira-X incorporates KPIP v2™ processing, significantly reducing burn-in time. Performance continues to refine naturally over the first several days of use.
AUTHORIZED DEALER ASSURANCE
Choice Audio has been supplying reference-grade audio systems since 2004. As an authorized dealer for Shunyata Research, we provide expert consultation, system matching guidance, and manufacturer-backed support across the entire Shunyata product range. Our experience with high-performance audio systems ensures that each Shunyata solution—whether cables, power conditioning, or grounding—is selected and configured to deliver optimal real-world performance.