@nglazer Your experience mirrors mine in AQ Vodka vs WW Starlight ethernet. Still, I prefer optical over any ethernet, although still using AQ Vodka prior to FMC points.
Showing 5 responses by sns
Hate to say this, but not all fiber created equally, quality of FMC and what feeds it important. I've tried generic with stock switching power supplies straight into wall,no power conditioning, same feeding lithium ion battery pack, linear power supply on only one FMC, linear ps on both, different linear ps's of various voltages, a number of different power cords, all this with and without plugged into my BPT 3.5 sig transformer based power conditioner. Everything matters, I've heard rather thin, harsh sound with switching power supplies, dark with switching and linear into lithium ion. One lps with very nice power cords into BPT nice, two lps better, gives lower noise floor, most natural sound. I have order in on Sonore OpticalModuleDeluxe, should be available July, compare directly to generic, pretty poor internal power supply and clock vs. OM which has four linear power regulators and Femto clock.
While optical is the only network solution with 100% galvanic isolation, meaning noise proceeding it cannot be passed on, noise generated from within the last FMC in line can be passed on. On paper, substituting OM for last in line generic should result in lower noise floor, less jitter, equals higher resolving, more natural sound.
Also, FMC in itself cannot improve on any noise and it's deleterious effects created by streaming components PRIOR to FMC, Which is to say, every single link in chain critical for best streaming performance. |
In my steaming setup, this some years ago, both WW compared to various models of AQ up to Vodka. In general WW what i'd consider analytical vs all AQ models. For me, all AQ more forgiving, with increased transparency, resolution as you go up the chain. I've now had AQ Vodka for perhaps four years now, never felt a need to try any other ethernet.
@jjss49 I agree megabuck ethernet may be extremely marginal gain, once you get to a certain level, little to be gained, below that well worth it.
Ethernet's greatest liability may be for the ability for RFI to enter through the connectors, or if not shielded well, through the cable jacket. I have Trifield Meter which measures RFI, very high levels of RFI around streaming components So noise not only enters chain from within components generating EMI, also through the air.
One other thing I believe I've never mentioned prior, I run cable modem close to my audio system. Many years ago I discovered much better sound quality running longer coax cable which allowed running better ethernet from modem to router. Bottom line, ethernet cable from modem to router or switch is important.
Also, I have Sonore OpticalModule on order, will be getting Acoustic Network Muon ethernet filter when I get back from vacation. Optimization of both ethernet and fiber continues.
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