Do I really need an " Audio Grade Network Switch "?


I think it's been a quite controversial topic for years, like what's the difference between normal network switch and an audio grade network switch, the price difference is certainly obvious though...
Anyway, I've done some researches, most audio reviewers say that under this " new digital streaming era " that an network switch is a must for an audio system, which is understandable for me, I mean because if I wanna play TIDAL or Qobuz or Spotify, I gotta use network so I can stream these online services, so yeah I get that if the network quality is good enough, it can possibly level up the music performance.

But anyhow, I'm new to this area, so I don't like to spend big bucks on my first purchase hahaha... there's a very wide range of the prices though, the top one is Ansuz Power Switch I think, the inner circuit and design look pretty sharp, and surely over my budget lol

So I'm choosing between Bonn N8 and SW-8, these two both got good reviews, and the prices seem so darn much friendly to me as I'm looking for an entry level switch now, do any of you have any insights to share?
or should I just go for the higher level ones?

Best,

preston8452

Showing 1 response by sns

At this point no single best streaming solution has been discovered.  @jumia You'd think 100% galvanic isolation would make anything prior superfluous, this not the case. Every single component in streaming chain will manufacture noise and/or allow noise in from emi/rfi, tthis noise detracts from attaining full resolving capabilities. Galvanic isolation certainly blocks the noise, but can't remove that which exists prior within equipment, connections and cable. So, as much as it makes sense to block noise after servers, it also makes sense to block it prior to server.

My experience is what comes after server more important than prior, the closest components or cabling just prior to dac most important. Still, the whole question of what's important brings to mind the old Linn argument that source is most important in systems vs. loudspeakers. The truth is everything is important, always be mindful of weak links and treat those as they arise.

 

For my particular setup, the audiophile or any switch for that matter, was detrimental, adding another component, power supply and cabling only served to add noise, sometimes simpler is better.