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Network/Ethernet Improvements Suggestions

Hi guys,

I've been thinking about upgrading my streamer (Innuos Zen Mini mkiii w/Innuos PSU), but was thinking I could, maybe should look at/take care of the network side of things first.

At the moment, my streamer is fed as follows;

  • ISP Modem -> TP Link Archer Router
  • Router -> Cat 6 shielded ethernet from living room into listening room
  • Cat 6 -> TP Link media converters, Ethernet -> Optical -> Ethernet (2nd converter powered by an ifi Power 2 plug)
  • DH Labs Ethernet Cable to regular consumer network switch w/ifi Power 2 plug (suggested by the chap at Network Acoustics whose name escapes me)
  • Network switch to Network Acoustics Eno, fed by Network Acoustics ethernet cable
  • Network Acoustics Eno to Innuos Zen Mini mkiii

My first instinct is to swap out the regular consumer switch for something like the LHY-SW8 switch, but any suggestions to the contrary, or additional measures would be welcome. 

Thanks guys 👍

128x128painter24

Showing 3 responses by audphile1

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,288 posts
 

Upgrade the streamer. Without a doubt biggest jump in performance.
Just resist buying more tweaks for the network. All you need is the best possible streamer you can get plus a very good Ethernet cable (Eno is that already)  

Leave the network stuff alone. Well actually I would even take out the Fiber converters and just use Eno. Test that too. If n my system it was much more natural sounding that way. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,288 posts
 

👍

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,288 posts
 

I do not like the fiber converters - in my system the sound becomes artificial and constricted. I have tried it with 3 streamers with exactly the same outcome. Power supply upgrades for these gizmos is a lipstick on a pig.

Do your research and go for the best streamer you can afford, used or new. Then you can get rid of the clutter and just use Eno.

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