Network Switches


Another digital question from an analogue guy.

I am currently running an Electrocompanient EDM MKII ( Streamer DAC) and a Small Green Computer Sonic transporter.  Both run off of a Trendnet                         ( unmanaged)  basic switch.

Would an upgraded switch have any sonic impact?

If so what switches in the 500 dollar range would be recommended?

 

rivinyl

Showing 1 response by mgrif104

@rivinyl 

you pose a good question and one that tends to bring out those who are passionate about the subject - on both sides.

I first tried the English Electric 8 (EE8) network switch paired with the network acoustics Eno filter. While I believe I perceived a difference, it was modest at best. Nevertheless, I kept both as I was also slowly improving other elements of my system at the time and figured it might help more down the road. 

From that initial trial, I have upgraded my speakers, cables, amplifier and DAC - basically everything but the network switch and filter. I still had the EE 8 in system and decided to audition the Reiki super switch along with the linear PS. While I was unsure of any benefit the first time around with the EE8, the improvement the Reiki brought was obvious.

The unfortunate conclusion I draw from this is that quality costs. It’s possible I’d hear more benefit from the EE8 in my current system if I compared without. I didn’t try that and should have. But I suspect the EE8 had limited (if any) affect while the Reiki had very positive affect. I’m not familiar with your system and so can’t say what your experience might be. But I’d try the Etherregen and then consider getting something well designed when ready.

My $.02