2. digital
  3. 187692-71961

Relationship between Ethernet Switch and SQ

This one will probably invite some withering mockery, but I will ask....

I only stream, and my streamer (Bryston BDP) is fed with an ethernet cable that runs back to my router.  Literally back to my router; there are enough output jacks on the router that I have a long run to the streamer and no ethernet switch in the chain (or the house system for that matter).   (There is an Eno filter right before the streamer).

I happen to OWN a nice LHY ethernet switch.  I am assuming that there is no reason to use it in this configuration, that is, assuming there are noisier switches, and less noisy switches, there is still no net benefit of adding any switch to this chain.  But maybe, just maybe, in the metaphysics of electrons that I do not understand, there is some reason why a nice switch prior to the streamer accomplishes something (in theory...I get that I can A/B test and try to fool myself whether I can hear a difference).  For the first person with a correct answer, I will mail a nice $600 switch to the address you specify! (JK)

mathiasmingus

Showing 1 response by romanesq

romanesq
86 posts
 

So this is a somewhat odd thread but I’ll add to the pile. Noise is an issue that is hard to fathom as when it’s there, you may not realize it. When it’s reduced you certainly can.

Had used the fiber optical solution seen here in the video and it worked very well. When I added a WiiM Pro to my monoblock tube amps, didn’t think it was needed anymore.

More recently, I had switched going out from the streamer coax and thought let’s try that glass optical cable I run for video audio. It is a substantial and a lovely improvement running that glass Toslink into an RME ADI-2 DAC. The DAC can handle 192K streaming coming out of the WiiM Pro.

Had the fiber optical cable lying around and said, hey, why not give it a try. It may not be an improvement like earlier. (Also use an LPS for the second fiber converter's power and to power the WiiM Pro.) Well, it took up the performance a whole other notch and now my system is the best sounding it’s ever been. It's sooooo good. 🐸

Both of these changes offered significant improvement because noise was removed. They are both audible and with noticeable impact. Happy listening and Happy New Year!

 

 

More to discover