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 1 response by veroguy

veroguy
139 posts
 

I haven't tried these products - mostly because the premise of improved "clocking", "timing", and/or "less jitter" improving SQ doesn't seem likely given the error correction in the TCP protocol - as well as where these switches are to be installed (before the streamer/server).

In my experience, "noise" in the digital front end plumbing can have downstream effects on SQ, and I have had good results using products that aim to deal with that:  linear power supplies, Gigafoil, ENO ethernet filter.  FWIW, I have what I consider a decent streamer - the DCS Network Bridge.

Looking at a few of the audiophile switches mentioned here, most only market the improved timing, decreased jitter or "data integrity" as the stated benefit.  A few do mention techniques to reduce clock and other "noise", and/or using improved external power supplies to that affect.  I could see these possibly having a benefit.

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