@dabel
You’re correct! SOtM highly recommended the iSO-CAT7 filter, so I ordered it with Black and Grey - 50CM pigtails :-)
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@dabel
I am also considering using Fiber with sNH-10G switch. Since the switch already has SFP ports, why not explore them? This option also eliminates the need from one LAN cable like dCBL-CAT7u or CAT8M from router/modem.
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@yoby
I appreciate the feedback and I am glad to be of help. You’re spot on with your assessment on dCBL-CAT7. I used to own this fine cable and had similar experience with my Apple router.
@dabel
Thanks for weighing in and it certainly feels that way, it appears to be a never ending pursuit. I should be content with what’ve put together but a recent experiment with Aurender N20 using an external master clock got my mind running wild :-)
Your network setup is amazing, are you using pair of dCBL-CAT7u before and after the switch? I am leaning towards sNH-10G with sCLK-EX clock & master clock input (50ohm) and 7N-UPOCC internal silver wiring with EVOX capacitor - eABS 200. The sNH-10G (12V) will be powered by my existing JCAT Optimo Duo LPS. The 10 MHz master clock connector option is what I’m really excited about!!!! I own a very precise and high quality external clock that’s likely further enhance the performance of sNH-10G.
I went ahead and ordered the dCBL-CAT8M CE. Very likely I will insert the 8M between my Apple router and sNH-10G switch. From switch, I am thinking about adding a iSO-CAT7 filter and experiment with some of my favorite LAN cables. The SOtM ‘Black’ cable, Network Acoustics ENO and JCAT Sig….should be a fun exercise.
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@dabel
Thanks for the clarification on dCBL-CAT7u’s configuration. I read up on Final Drive, interesting device indeed. Happy Holidays 🎄
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@dabel
No idea, why your post was removed. I have enough information to keep moving forward, so excited about this project.
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@jerryg123
Thanks for your kind words. Thankfully, the worst is behind us and we are back to beautiful ☀️ weather in HTown.
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@yoby
I just received dCBL-CAT8M cable. It seems this cable is bit more flexible than the original dCBL-CAT7. With limited run of Christmas Edition, SOtM absolutely nailed it with exquisite sleeve and semi see-through double filters :-)
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@dabel
Thanks for sharing your experience. I am still on the fence as my last experiment with Fiber at entry level media converters was not great. We will see, just looking at all angles to fully maximize my investment :-)
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@lordmelton
I do not have any direct experience with Fiber Box II so I cannot say that adding a switch would or wouldn’t yield further improvements. It appears on paper that Fiber Box II is addressing and reducing the noise and jitter. Whether adding a switch further improves sound or not, this is something you would have to try in your system.
I have already stated my reasoning to audition SOtM switch, the 10MHz clock input and their newest CAT8M LAN cable with double filter block. Trying a fibre with SOtM switch has a slight advantage as it eliminates the need for one external converter box and LPS on receiving end. Again, i will be comparing copper LAN with Fiber to access which sound better to my ears.
As far as Taiko new products which include switch, router and re-designed network card; they are specifically designed to enhance performance of Taiko Extreme. And their availability (for now) is exclusive to Taiko Extreme existing and future owners. As per Emile, non-Taiko users will not get the full benefit, which includes a software / firmware interaction. If you would like to learn more about Taiko switch or router, I suggest you to check out Taiko Extreme thread on WBF.
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@yoby
Thanks for posting. The cable looks solid and definitely worth auditioning in short run applications. I’ve had few conversations with Rich at Network Acoustics about replicating his standard line of products in Pro version for end users who owns streamers that requires 1Gb/s Ethernet. In my experience the Pro Line or any other cable that conforms to CAT8.1 standards is a must in realizing full potential of streamers with 1GB/s ethernet requirement.
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@lollipopguild
I agree with you, a device like iSO-CAT7 is unnecessary in a setup where there is already a high quality switch or filter being used. I didn’t hear any appreciable difference in sound quality when I used iSO-CAT6 filter with dCBL-CAT7 cable. In any case, each system is different so the effects of switches, filters may vary greatly.
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@lollipopguild
My understanding was to use iSO-CAT7 between switch and streamer with your choice of (flavor) 50cm LAN pigtails for final tuning. The dCBL-CAT7u to be used between modem and switch. Listening is the key with any tweaks, either they work or they don’t based on our unique audio systems.
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@j_andrews
Thanks for your post. Glad to hear you’re enjoying the improvements with iSO-CAT7. Looks like the filter has lowered the noise floor thus allowing you to hear better detail and separation between instruments and vocals. The LINKUP cable is incredibly open, detailed and balanced LAN I’ve heard, for the money; it is a steal!
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@westexdent
Well, I received the cable back in December but haven’t had a chance to test it. My plans to try this cable with a SoTM switch fell through. My existing switch is not compatible with this cable so in all likelihood, I will end up selling this cable.
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@lordmelton
I was all set to pull the trigger on SoTM switch but then a series of events gave me a pause to pursue the SoTM switch. I am still hanging on the CAT8M LAN, in hopes of trying the SoTM switch later in the future. I got few other things lined up for audition in upcoming months which I feel will yield much bigger improvements over trying another switch.
@yoby
I am currently using Telegartner M12 Switch Gold that uses proprietary M12 connectors.
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