Network Switches

Actually, it’s the jl680a that I’m interested in. The 681 has PoE, which i don’t need….

Another variation on the switch:

Has anyone tried this HPE “Aruba” switch with both twisted pair RJ45 ports and 2 slots for optical fiber SFPs?  (Speeds limited to 1g)

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1561166-REG/aruba_jl681a_instant_on_1930_8_port.html

Thanks!

An interesting thought.  I realized that I run my network switch through my power conditioner ( a Digi Buss ).  The maker of which commented that that should be "cleaning' the power.  So perhaps an iFi X power supply would not add much to the mix.  I wonder whether an optical isolator would be beneficial in that setting.  

@rivinyl , FWIW,  I tried the iFi LAN iPurifierPro between my switch and my integrated DAC/streamer/amp and vacillated between thinking it made no difference and thinking it slightly degraded sound quality.  I returned it and went with the pair of media converters and SFPs (described above). That approach in my system has resulted in a decidedly lower sound floor with no (at least as fast as I can hear) accompanying loss of dynamics or other degradation to SQ; it also saved ~$200. 

The review on the Stack Audio Smooth LAN Regenerator used the Smooth LAN near the streamer and an Uptone Audio Ether Regen close to the modem. Seems like since the Smooth LAN is a re-clocker and passive filter, that would be enough. 

An interesting thought.  I realized that I run my network switch through my power conditioner ( a Digi Buss ).  The maker of which commented that that should be "cleaning' the power.  So perhaps an iFi X power supply would not add much to the mix.  I wonder whether an optical isolator would be beneficial in that setting.

Im using a LHY SW-6.  Works great.    Using the fiber port to a media converter then to Aurender N200

Thanks for all the suggestions.!

@rivinyl along the lines of what was recommended by @lalitk

here’s a cheaper option for lan optical isolator 

https://www.musicdirect.com/equipment/accessories/ifi-lan-ipurifier-pro/

comes with Music Direct return policy. 
you would place this device to feed the final Ethernet entry point - if you’re using the electrocompaniet as a streamer the iFi device would be placed immediately in front of the electrocimpaniet ethernet connection  

As to linear power supplies - my thought process is if your Trendnet switch is not plugged into to same circuit as your audio system, adding LPS to it is unlikely to make any difference. I would add LPS to the SGC and add good Ethernet cables throughout with the best one feeding your streamer. 

@rivinyl 

A gentle caution, It’s so easy to over-analyze the Ethernet signal chain. I’ve been down that rabbit hole—switches, filters, cables, clocks… the nth degree of tweaking.

After all that, here’s my takeaway: Less is often more. You’ll get better results focusing on fewer, higher-quality components rather than stacking layers of tweaks. Simplicity when done right, can sound astonishing.

At the end of the day, trust your ears. Stream smart, not cluttered.

Look at the components that offer robust performance and functionality. 

Tweak your existing setup with following, add optical conversion ahead of your streamer / DAC

https://www.beatechnik.com/product-page/lhy-audio-efi

And this to your basic switch, 

https://a.co/d/2rnfJYr

A server or streamer is the component that most benefits from a quality lps. Next in line would be switch followed by router then modem.

I wonder if I could throw out another question to the group; keeping in mind that my budget is limited in the 500 dollar - 750 dollar range.

If I were to pursue an LPS as the first step in enhancing my digital sound; which component would the starting point to add an LPS to optimize sound?

Ethernet switch vs Router Modem vs Server ( Small Green Computer )?

Just to close the loop on this, the shielded Cat8 cable arrived and seems fine.  No real change over the Blue Jeans Cat6a that I can discern. But some peace of mind knowing that that last foot from optical to the streamer/DAC/amp is now also shielded from EMI and RFI, without having created any ground loop hum. Were it more than $10 at stake, I might consider returning it, but as is, I am inclined to keep it. 

Good to hear. Thank you.  

I've got a test cord coming tomorrow.  The system is sounding so good now -- the media converters with those finisar SFPs & the Corning OM4 fiber seem to be magic -- it's hard to imagine any improvement, but I'm eager to expirement to see the effect, if any, of replacing an unshielded cat 6a cord for the last foot into the M33 (streamer, DAC, integrated amp all in one) with this shielded one. 

@kirkwallace 

No issue whatsoever. 

@lalitk  have you ever experienced any ground loop issues when using the double shieded 26awg linkup Cat8 Ethernet cables?

@sns  we are using Edisoncreation Silent Switch OCXO II ver. Standard and the Fiberbox III ver. Standard. Also have had great results with Sonore Opitcal Module Deluxe V2 in tandem, with my Innuos Statement. 

I agree, probably not optimal for multiple conversion, ethernet>optical>ethernet. Thru trial and error I found using OpticalRendu as my streamer was beneficial in a number of ways,. Firstly, Roon sound quality superior using two streamer setup, Roon core on first streamer, Endpoint on the OR which is designed for this purpose only, second benefit is the single optical conversion, third, OR optimizes usb vs what I'd get out of most streamers. 

Certainly one could go optical out of router route, the issue is not all optical interfaces equal, the Sonore and other audiophile converters provide superior optical interface. I and many others have compared generic to optimized solutions, this is the general consensus. 

The original GigaFOILv4-INLINE (here) was basically an optical isolator, similar to the LHY product. The same folks that brought us the GigaFOILv4, DJM Electronics, now offers the fancier looking, Streaming Audio Ethernet EMI Filter (here) that uses “proprietary Digital Signal Processing (DSP) techniques” and costs about 4x as much.  Maybe it works better. Does it work better than the Network Acoustics ENO 2 that uses transformers to isolate, or the more expensive MUON PRO?  Who knows? Two $30 converters and two $80 LPSs may perform just as well, or not.  I have tried multiples of these things in my own system and the only thing I learned for sure is that they just keep costing more. In the end, we all seem to find our own path.

@devinplombier , got it; makes total sense. Thank you. 

I have returned the iFi silent power unit and for now, i am going replace it with a  duplicate the double StarTech/Finisar optical “moat” with the OM4 Corning glass in between the switch and M33 (i.e, the last ethernet segment to use your nice phrase). I may just leave the connection between the modem & router, alone for now. (I put aslightly better power source in to the router a couple weeks ago; maybe that is sufficient, given the “moats”.)

You would need converters at every component that does not natively support SFP.

Typically, the last Ethernet segment - the one that plugs into your streamer - is where optical decoupling is most beneficial if sound quality is the goal.

@devinplombier that is very interesting. So, just to make sure I am follwoing, as i am quite inexperienced with network technology and options, this means getting a switch that can take ethernet RJ45 (say Cat6a) from the router and has one or more SFPs ports built in that i could attach fiber optic cable (say LC) to, but as the Roon and my M33 don’t have any ports that accept fiber (LC or otherwise) inputs, wouldn’t i still need media converters?

I have also looked at the Sonore options, but found if not using an "optical streamer" ie the optical Rendu, two optical modules were needed ( per Andrew Gillis).  One to convert the ethernet to optical and then another to convert back to ethernet.  Too many boxes and too many power supplies/wall warts.  I would prefer a simpler, one box solution.

@kirkwallace 

You could get a SFP switch, and simply use fiber from your modem on out.

On the LHY- Audio EFI, recognizing that everyone’s room and other components are different, has anybody been able to compare it to the iFI SilentPower fiber isolator in their systems? From the spec sheets, they seem very similar, except LHY’s seems to have better built in power supply modules.

I’ve been demoing the iFI for the past 2 weeks, and am thinking I wil send it back (thank you Amazon and your 30 day refund policy).  SQ seems to be a touch diminished with it is installed between the modem and router (Eero 7), and largely unchanged if instead I put it betweent the switch and my NAD M33 (using its built-in DAC). (I’ve been powering it with iFI’s iPower X DC Adapter.) The speakers are DALI Epicon 6s, which are super revealing and neutral (by far the nicest part of my set up.)

On the other hand, having installed 2 Media converters (StarTech) with  FInisar FTLF8519P3BNL 1000BASE-SX 2.125Gb/s 850nm LC Connector SFPs between the router and switch (which has the Roon Nucleus plugged into it) improved, ever so slightly, higher frequency precision/details and tighter bass. This seems to have provided a tiny bit quieter background without SQ degradation.  And, as Erik suggested many posts ago, now, if I get a power surge through the COAX coming out of the wall to the modem, it won’t get further than frying the modem and router.

As much as I’d prefer a single box with 1 power supply, if I return the iFi Silent Power I might replicate the double StarTech/Finisar optical “moat” approach to isolate the modem from the router. (With 1m Corning glass OM4 fiber optic that whole bundle is <USD180, vs USD399 for the iFI or USD499 for the LHY.) (I would also see if installing those between the switch and the M33 instead offered any improvement and leave the router exposed— after all we get almost no lightening in Portland so COAX surges are not really a serious concern here.)

Thanks for any advice or observations.

Cheers

-Kirk

@fthompson251 @lalitk I too have found optical conversion to be worthwhile, and there is optimizations to be had here as well. I'm running Sonore OpticalModule to OpticalRendu, optimization of these devices via DC cables, DC plugs, LPS, AC cables, power conditioners, transceiver modules. 

@fthompson251 

Thanks for mentioning this product. Fiber optic isolation converters in audio applications is gaining traction, especially in digital front-end systems where noise reduction and signal purity are critical. A device like LHY Audio EFI works without stripping away the dynamics since it’s keeping the signal transmission over conventional RJ45 cable. I am using a similar device and it’s indispensable in my system. 

The main reason for lower noise floor is optical conversion, it breaks the electrical continuity eliminating ground loops and EMI/RFI contamination.

FWIW, I have placed this between my switch and streamer, It did lower the noise floor. I cannot detect any detraction of sound quality, harshness etc. with it installed. Just a lower noise floor IMHO. No SMPS. I use a good power cord on it too. (WW Silver Electra 7)  This replaced an Network Acoustics Eno filter system, which I felt it compressed dynamics a bit. 

 https://www.beatechnik.com/product-page/lhy-audio-efi

@lalitk cool. Thanks! 

@audphile1 

I don’t think 26awg version better but it definitely much more flexible. The 22awg version as you know is bit stiff.

@lalitk I have the 22awg Linkup. Is the 26awg better?

@rivinyl 

Try this cable and see whether it brings any audible improvement over your standard cable. 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GCVWRY2?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_TYB58WNP1WXQEYC5CGND

While I ponder the many noted options, I do have one other ( and simpler ) question.  My home wifi is a mesh network and thus the main pod ( from which my switch/server/ streamer emanate) is wired by an ethernet cable to the cable modem/router.  I have upgraded the ethernet cable that feeds the switch etc, but have been using a garden variety cat 6 cable to connect the main pod to the modem router.  Would there be any benefit to upgrading the router - pod #1 cable?  Perhaps better shielding at that level might clean up the signal?  Certainly would be an easy fix.

Am I the only one detesting people who ex cathedra diss equipment of which they have no personal experience whatsoever? Whether it’s envy, churlishness, one-upmanship or simple pigheadedness, it adds nothing but rancour and spite to a conversation between people who are trying to learn from each other. 

Bluntly: will you shut the f__k up!

@ devinplombier

679 posts

06-13-2025 at 11:17am 

If spending $3,799 on a switch that looks like a spray-painted smoke detector (plus $2749 for its companion power supply) is considered sane, one wonders what "chasing the rabbit" looks like. Respectfully
 

I take it that you have never owned or even have experienced the product in your own system especially since you say it looks like a black painted smoke detector!  Not every system is eye catching to some folks. That's the beauty of making your own choice but at the end of the day, the product works especially with the Linear Power Supply.  It’s not built to everyone’s liking nor is any other product for that matter.  So much so as some of the products we see in today’s industry.  Example, some amplifiers look like computer towers and brings a healthy price tag of 70-160k.  Not for everyone’s taste. At the end of the day if you want a product that works as intended, then that’s one of the choices that one has to choose from.  If that’s not your cup of tea based on looks not performance, that’s your choice.  Most network devices are built to perform, not built to be beauty queens in my opinion. I don’t know of anyone placing them center stage in front of their amplifiers, preamps, speakers, or turntable.  At least from what I’ve seen from thousands of photos. I know my wife loves how my system looks and sounds but I wonder if most the individuals on this forum wife or husband like what their significant others has as a HiFi rig these days. Think about that for a second!!

devinplombier

Everything else being equal, I will prefer the product that is more pleasing to look at.

That's just human nature.

Are you saying that you evaluate audio gear based on appearance?

Actually yes, to some extent. Everything else being equal, I will prefer the product that is more pleasing to look at. And a simple L2 network switch is one of those rare cases in audio where everything is equal.

If I were to spend a combined $6,548 on a switch and PSU, you bet I would demand it not resemble a smoke detector.

Disclaimer: I can afford it. I am just not interested.

devinplombier

If spending $3,799 on a switch that looks like a spray-painted smoke detector (plus $2749 for its companion power supply) is considered sane ...

Are you saying that you evaluate audio gear based on appearance? Would you like it better if the switch was in a bigger box with blue meters?

I’m not a fan of Nordost and haven’t tried the product, but appearance isn’t the obstacle.

If spending $3,799 on a switch that looks like a spray-painted smoke detector (plus $2749 for its companion power supply) is considered sane, one wonders what "chasing the rabbit" looks like. Respectfully.

Good morning,

If you’re serious about your music and your videos for movies and price no option, I would look into the Nordost QNet Network Switch, the Nordost QSource Linear Power Supply and their various cables.  I know it is a bit pricey but it can cost you more money in the end chasing the rabbit.  Heck you can even connect your Roon Nucleus to it using the same Linear Power Supply.

just a thought and happy listening!

@tshark I don’t doubt switches make a difference. The difference though can be either positive or negative. I have a very good dedicated streamer and a dac with a a tried and true network card. The difference between using a dedicated streamer feeding the DAC via a good USB cable and streaming using the network card in a DAC yields different results. And so it should. And I’ll be hard pressed to buy into an idea that a switch or a regen/reckocker between the router and a DAC can bridge that gap completely. Going down the rabbit hole with Ethernet tweaks without adding a good streamer is a waste of time and money. IMO.
 

This brings us back to the point I was making earlier about investing in components as opposed to tweaks to feed an inferior streaming device. 

The OP is using an inbuilt streamer/network card. Ideally to step up in sound quality a dedicated streamer is money better spent than a high end switch. A better Ethernet cable alone can improve things significantly but then again it won’t reach the level of performance you get with a proper streamer. This has been my experience and it’s unfortunately the reality in most cases. 
 

Alternatively if the Elecrocompaniet in question is a streamer with a built in DAC, a dedicated outboard DAC would be the next logical step in improving performance. 
 

@sns Amen.

Lest some of us are confused...Below are some definitions.

In a network, a router connects different networks together, allowing devices on those networks to communicate with each other and the internet. A switch connects devices within the same network, enabling them to share resources and information. A server provides services and resources to other devices on the network, such as web pages, email, or applications. 

“why is it people don't reconsider the router?”
@sns 

I can think of few reasons; convenience, no upfront cost and support from their ISP. For most folks, ISP routers simply works so why bother, right? 

Replacing your ISP router can be daunting for most users but for those with revealing digital systems and a commitment to noise management, it can quietly elevate everything. Just like low-level detail, you won’t know what you’re missing until it’s gone. 

For those naysayers who claim switches can't make a sonic difference its the same old story. Man, I've heard the same thing about myriad things, probably every single component in one's system. Theoreticals don't impress me, empirical evidence matters much more for me, relatively large numbers of people in concurrence is my gold standard for trying something. 

Switches are one of those rare components that invites great variability as to benefits. I maintain this due to the fact they accomplish so little, specifically designed LAN filters are better filters/isolators. What else does a switch add other than convenience, someplace to connect streaming audio components to a home network where router placement far from audio system? You're home network already compromised by a crappy noisy router, long cheap LAN cable run from router to switch, most likely running router via noisy SMPS off whole house AC. All the mitigation efforts applied post crap router are only band aids, the damage already done. 

My question is while it seems many concur that the home network has sonic impacts in the sense they find LAN filters and optical conversions to be effective, why is it people don't reconsider the router? Seems to me the routers, being at the headwaters of entire streaming chain needs attention. The Dejitter Switch X is the first I know of to offer an audiophile solution to this. I suspect we'll see more of these types of devices coming if and when the positive reviews continue to roll in. 

Re audphile1 -

Don’t knock it till you try it. I was a doubter but did add the Uptown Audio EtherRegen switch and not only did it help with better sounding audio, I noticed Les noise on my 60” Sony XBR picture. I could see the hockey puck easier on a crisper white ice background. 

@admin 

This forum needs a facepalm emoji in order to deal succinctly with the toxic delusional nonsense being spouted.

Who wants to waste words responding to $2000 network switches - used, no less? Since when has "audiophile" become synonymous with credulous & benighted? Do we have to explain EVERYTHING ten times over? This is becoming tedious. Emoji, please. 

2k "used" for a flipping switch, you say?....Right, right, Ted Denny is so deserving, ain’t he? I should dissect his crap one day and compare it to a Cisco 100 dollar run of the mill for ya.

But, ’you got what you paid for’, said Denny, I bet, mmhmm (facepalm).

Bet he is a EECS PhD too from Devry, eh?

Synergistic Research has one of the best Ethernet hubs and cables. Good independent reviews online. Can buy used around 2K. If you are streaming a lot and have a good system, it is well worth it.

People be wildin on this thread...anyone considering an expensive/audiophile ethernet switch: Please DYOR. I strongly suggest using ChatGPT/Grok to explain TCP/IP and you'll see it's actually a pretty genius technology for that guarantees bit-perfect end-to-end data transmission. 

Pizza tastes the same whether it's delivered in a limo or a Hyundai Elantra.

Analog transmission is different - in that realm, everything matters.

Would an upgraded switch have any sonic impact?

Yes, but one needs both a highly transparent audio chain and choose a higher quality audiophile switch to hear the difference/improvement

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

None.  Usually one has to spend significantly more to hear a meaningful difference/improvements like Network Acoustics, Ansuz, SR, Telegartner.  Below these quality/price points positive results are more uncertain

@rikkipuu The difference between a router and switch is the router can assign IP addresses, common switches don't. A managed switch does have the ability to assign IP addresses, so managed switch can replace a router. Since regular switches don't one must keep router in streaming chain, switch is added after router, generally the advantage of the switch is to isolate streaming chain from the whole house router, router continues to serve the whole house system. I also see switches added in setups where router located far from the audio system, long LAN cable to switch, switch located near audio system so shorter, audiophile LAN cable serves audio system. Some switches also have optical capability, same with routers, this may be an advantage as well.

Excellent thread. 

The back of the house Ethernet is often a chain of parts  

Most of us spend for and value top tier connects for other parts of our systems and the same should be true for our digital connections that often require a switch. On a bicycle a clean chain is best. Sure a dirty one works but…….
 
In my experience Ethernet out from the wall “cleaned up” is better.