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

You might consider adding an Uptone Etherregen behind the switch. It’s moat provides substantial reduction of both ground level and RFI/EMI noise. Use your best Ethernet cable between Etherregen  or switch and streamer

Yes, an audiophile grade switch can have a very positive impact.

In your price range I can vouch for the Chord Company English Electric 8 Switch.

Many switches which utilize an outboard power supply can be upgraded further by use of a suitable higher quality third party outboard power supply.

Before you spend money, have Grok explain TCP/IP's error correction capabilities at your preferred level. Data transmission is structured to ensure bit-perfect delivery to an endpoint even in the presence of interference. I'm not saying these devices don't provide what they advertise - just what they provide doesn't/can't affect SQ. https://x.com/i/grok/share/PY8Gmk5nxgZuEAeKfbs5gaTAE

@goleksiak 

Why o why do,we always get self appointed professors to proselytise on first principles when we discuss network issues. Network issues in audio have nothing to do with error correction, lost bits, sum checking and the digital like. Instead the problems arise frm ground  level noise travelling ALONG the bits as well as RFI/EMI cable incursions affecting timing and shape of the analogly transmitted signal of the sine wave and thereby affecting the subsequent D/A conversion at the DAC level.

 

And refrain from commenting on things you have not listened to…

I suggest you spend a bit of time on the analogue transmission of digital data and its problems in time critical audio applications…