Better Power Supply for a Router?

Oh yeah... if it’s in the Internets, it must be true

@cakyol, thanks for sharing your knowledge!

I am really happy to say that, It is a very interesting post to read. I learnt new information from your article, you are doing a great job mycfavisit! Thank you.

Here is a good table that gives all the typical cable limits (towards the end of the page):

https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/connectivity/ethernet-ieee-802-3/cables-types-pinout-cat-...

I am not exactly sure what "stock cable" for your router is, but my guess is most of these devices will operate with cat6k cable without any issues. But hey, these days cat7 cables are almost the same price as cat6k cables, so there is no harm in upgrading for future proofing your installation. You do NOT have to spend any excessive amounts of money for ’audiophile’ ethernet cables. There are no such things except money traps. As long as the cable you already have are within the specified specs, you will have no problems.

If you are experiencing any problems, typically your cable modem (connection to the service provider) is likely to be the bottleneck than either your own home router or the wiring, especially when too many people start using the internet simultaneously.

@cakyol, it's good to hear from an industry expert.  What are your thoughts on the quality of ethernet cable running from router to streamer... and what about the quality of the router?   I'm using a simple Google Nest router with stock cable into my Bluesound 2 Vault streaming Qobuz.  Should I stick with what I have or can sound quality benefit from an upgraded router and upgraded Cat 7 cable?

I work in the networking industry (Cisco 17 years, Broadcom 3 years), it is ALL snake oil.  The power supply it came with is adequate.

TBC:  Better power supplies don't make the networking better.  What they do is reduce the amount of noise they inject into your AC lines. I wouldn't go crazy putting expensive wall warts everywhere, but anything near the audio system I would.

A better power supply definitely makes a difference on your router. I use a better power supply on my cable modem and NAS also. It will take your network set up to another level, That is if rest of your system is revealing enough to hear it. We all know that noise is your systems enemy. Wall warts are cheap and very noisy.

@dougthebiker - funny I got into a debate with another guy in Agon about an upgraded router that he said was snake oil.
Seems he was more than just a little probably right. The more I researched the subject, the more a linear power supply affected the resulting sound quality. I now agree with him.

From the research I read, you're on the right path if you're going to sort out the power to it.

Leave the router alone and buy hifi switch. Silent Angel with stock PS.
OR
Go all ENO
https://www.networkacoustics.com/

I agree that the iFi line is pretty good, and it’s cost effective.

I am not sure that a better power supply on the router will make a difference for you. I’d be sure that you can return it if you don’t hear a difference.

Another approach to this would be an Ethernet isolator like the ones made by EMO Systems. I bought one in a flush of audiophile enthusiasm, but I’ve got to say, I don’t hear the difference. I’ve kept it for its surge protection.

The ifi line of wall warts is pretty solid.