Advice on Improving a Wifi-Mesh -> Ethernet Setup?


My streamer connects to an ethernet port of a Netgear Orbi satellite. It's a modified Allo Digione Signature mounted on a USBridge Signature, both powered by an Allo Shanti LPS.

The Orbi is a stock unit powered by a Teradak LPS. I've noticed a significant jump using John Swenson's technique to "ground" the stock SMPS. The LPS provided further improvements but were not as dramatic as introducing the grounding adapter.

If I intend to take things one step forward, which would make the most sense in my system? 

1. An "audiophile" switch that supposedly reclocks and improves the signal.

2. Some type of filter or isolation to reduce noise (Gigafoil, ENO, FMC, etc.).

3. Modifying/Replacing the Orbi.

Thanks in advance!

serancien

Showing 2 responses by mitch2

I've noticed a significant jump using John Swenson's technique to "ground" the stock SMPS. The LPS provided further improvements but were not as dramatic as introducing the grounding adapter.

I am curious what "significant jump" or specific sonic improvements did you notice from grounding and then from adding the LPS, and what are you currently trying to improve that would have you consider replacing your Orbi system?  I have an Orbi mesh system too and I am not hearing or aware of any specific sonic problems as my system is quiet except for the music playing.  Is there a specific noise problem you are trying to overcome?  I own the ENO and Gigafoil as well as fiber/converters and the Bonn switch and none of those things make  a significant sonic difference in my system (i.e., it sounded good before installing them and it sounds just as good after).

I have been moving some things around just to find out what will happen so may move my HD Plex LPS over to my router.  I have a smaller ifi filtered power supply (I do not believe their power supplies/adaptors are linear but they are filtered) that I can use on the Gigafoilv4 and the ENO doesn't need power.  I am currently using the HD Plex on the Gigafoilv4 because it is closest to my server.  As mentioned, the results of any of this have been so subtle as to make me wonder whether there is any effect whatsoever. 

Things that do make a noticeable difference include the upgrade I just made from a Mojo Audio EVO B4B21+ DAC to their EVO PRO DAC (a positive move - slightly better resolution and spatial information), and also I have compared running USB directly from my Mojo Audio Deja Vu server to the DAC vs. running Ethernet from the server to a separate Roon endpoint (either Metrum Ambre or Bricasti M5) and then AES/EBU or S/PDIF into the DAC.  The USB sounds better (slightly richer, tonally bolder, and more dynamic) but the server uses the well-regarded JCAT USB CARD XE so maybe no surprise there.