2. digital
  3. 174216-169961

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 3 responses by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,445 posts
 

No, you do not. The real key to audiophile level performance is the streamer. Then when you get to the level of performance you are looking for you can start tweaking  interconnects, power cords, and maybe add a EtherRegen.. (~$600).

I run my system (see my ID) using a $69 wifi extender. My system achieved the highest level of performance equivalent to my really good vinyl end  using just that. I have since added a EtherRegen and received a tiny increase in SQ. I think it is because I have a really good streamer which cashes the data and completely isolates the outgoing stream from the network. 

ghdprentice
6,445 posts
 

@mapman 

 

Pithy.

ghdprentice
6,445 posts
 

I suspect the real answer to the question is like every other question in high end audio: it depends. It depends on the quality of your streamer, router, modem, interconnects and downstream equipment. For me the answer is no, I needed no special networking equipment. I have a flagship streamer that takes care of any upstream issues and completely isolates the bit stream it releases to my DAC. But, probably other folks with other streamers are more effected by the packets and physical connection, You can probably put a lot of money in the network side and get much better sound out of a less expensive streamer… or visa versa. The effect on cables will depend on the equipment on both side.

But one thing I have found for sure is streaming can perform as good or in many cases better than dedicated CD players and with the right equipment equal vinyl. How you get there will be different for everyone, but it is a very worthy pursuit.

More to discover