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Ethernet Cable or Not?

Hey everybody,

Thanks in advance for your guidance.

I use an inexpensive WiFi receiver to send a signal to a Schiit Dac, then to my Integrated.

The wireless signal never lags/buffers, but sometimes music sounds better to me than others. Very well could be in my head, tinnitus intensity, etc.

Line of sight to my router is approximately seven feet, and a ten foot cable would do the job and for the most part be hidden.

Is a wired connection between a router and WiFi receiver the way to go if one is possible? Or if I’m not having buffering should I let it be? (I don’t own a cable to try but can pick one up if it’s likely to help of course.)

Thanks for the help!
uncledemp

Showing 6 responses by david_ten

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Excellent post, as always, from @almarg 

More specifics on your front end and any connections will be helpful.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@uncledemp Thanks for the information and additional details.

If I have the correct unit (Tunebox 2 TB20), it appears to be powered by a wall wart via a micro USB cable and is rated at 5V/0.5A

My advice is to invest in a Linear Power Supply (there are many affordable options with cabling included).

I believe you will obtain far better results doing this than parsing the differences between WiFi vs. a LAN cable, in your setup.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
If you go the Linear Power Supply route, I encourage you to consider a LPS that offers multiple power outputs.

You did not specify your ’router’ (I’m assuming it is both a modem and router)... it is likely also DC powered.

A LPS, when used to power BOTH the ’router’ and your "WiFi Receiver" (Tunebox), will only add to the upsides with respect to performance and sound quality!

It appears your ’router’ is near enough (7 ft) to allow for one LPS to power both ’components.’ If not, and you like what a single LPS does for your system (with the Tunebox), simply add a second LPS to power your ’router’ at a later date.

All the best. Report back on the route you choose and the results.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Additional clarifying points.

1. You are already isolating your ’router’ from your "WiFi receiver" by using WiFi. This is a good thing.

In this scenario, a single LPS to your "WiFi receiver" is a good first step.

2. IF you choose to run ’wire,’ i.e. the LAN cable from your ’router’ to the "WiFi receiver"....

Then, powering your ’router’ with an LPS becomes more critical...for the reasons @almarg highlighted in his post.

Having a LPS that can power both is ideal and also allows you to test cable vs WiFi (to determine which one you prefer).
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Don't apologize for your vice(s)...
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
I’ve looked at some LPS options and they can get pricey.


Many options under USD $200. Single output units under $100.

You can go with an iFi switch mode wall wart for $49 to see if it beats the stock wall wart. Returnable, therefore minimal risk.
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