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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 painter24

painter24's avatar
painter24 OP
213 posts
 

Thanks for all the advice guys, much appreciated 👍

Streamer it is, I'm convinced after removing the media converters

painter24's avatar
painter24 OP
213 posts
 

@creativepart  

Thanks for this. I've also read somewhere that using an optic "firebreak" in the chain can bring it's own issues, can't remember what that was now.

DAC is a Cen Grand DSDAC 1.0 Super Clock -> Marantz Model 30 -> ATC SCM40's.

I am happy with how my system sounds overall; I can't help thinking I could do more with the network connection with the streamer, and should try and optimise this before upgrading the Zen Mini to something else

painter24's avatar
painter24 OP
213 posts
 

@audphile1 @marco1 

I've tried cutting out the media converters and going ethernet straight into the regular switch, which feeds the NA ENO; got to admit, I find music pops more/a better 3D presentation/greater depth - I feel like the media converters in the chain were actually constricting the soundstage front to back.

I've had the converters in for a while and never tried without since, even through a change of streamer; Node N130 -> Innuos Zen Mini mkiii

I think you're both right; upgrading my streamer maybe the most worthwhile investment in my system at this point

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