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Router for Audio Streaming

I have been streaming Pandora, Spotify and Qobuz through a wifi network streamer from a Netgear AC1750 R6400v2 router with no sound quality complaints.

Recently a router firmware update failed (a known issue with these) and as a result it is no longer accessible for administration.  It still seems to perform ok and accepts new devices however the network settings are "frozen" and I am unable to view device IP addresses or traffic, neither via desktop browser nor via the Nighthawk app.

I will try a factory reset but have read that quite often this does not work in these situations, so I started investigating getting a new router to be able to pull the trigger quickly if needed.

I heard/read that routers can make a difference in sound quality, beyond just being able to keep up with streaming with no buffering.  I'm wondering what router experience and recommendations folks have here for reliable audio streaming with superior sound quality at a reasonable price.

Thanks!

yoramguy1
jerrybj
862 posts
 

Have read some who have two wifi routers. One for their audio streaming. Another for everything else in the house.

jerrybj
862 posts
 

I have friends who have experienced audio benefit getting a linear power supply on their wifi router. I’ve bought a dual 12v lps from Aliexpress for around $100 landed.

Run my modem and router with it.

yoramguy1 OP
68 posts
 

@sns , thanks!  Re #3, for sure longer term listening helps to confirm whether you are satisfied or not with the change, however I found that only very quick back-to-back-to back-to back blind comparison can point out subtle differences.  Our memory just isn't good enough to retain sound subtleties.

cakyol's avatar
cakyol
940 posts
 

99% of the home routers available today will be more than adequate for streaming music, as long as your carrier service is at least 10-15 mbits/sec.  Other than that, they will not make a difference.

Go with a slightly older router (11N or 11AC) instead of 11AX  or above.  The software stability is bound to be better since those versions are much simpler.

Also, for better penetration, use 2.4G instead of 5G.  You are more likely to get more interference but if you dedicate one band (basically do not use auto if you can) to streaming and push everything else working on 2.4G to the furthest away band, you will also minimize your interference.

 

yoramguy1 OP
68 posts
 

@cakyol , thanks.  If you followed the thread you'd know that has been exactly my approach.

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