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Stack Audio-SmoothLAN Network Filter- WOW!

I just received this item that I purchased from Stack Audio after being impressed with the AUVA 100 Speaker footers.

For any of the Audio Streamers out there, my initial comment as to this item: The SmoothLAN Network Filter is WOW!

From first plug in, the soundstage deepened and widened immensely. How the heck this occurs is nothing short of amazing. I have tried many of the major brand ethernet filters, and some of them, maybe, did something. But not enough to keep them. I either sent them back or sold them. I did however keep an iFi Silencer unit.

My digital streaming consists of an EtherRegen sending out the signal via Fiber to my Lumin X1. I have the Stack Audio device going into the EtherRegen from the Modem.

And, since I have my Apple TV coming out of the EtherRegen it will be interesting to see if the Video improves.

Check out the review in EAR.

Stack Audio Smooth-LAN For Clean Streaming | The Ear (the-ear.net)

ozzy

128x128ozzy
ozzy's avatar
ozzy OP
7,461 posts
 

tksteingraber,

Congratulations! You never know about delivery these days. Give it a couple of days to break in. I think it improves further.

ozzy

markush
33 posts
 

Having tried so many filters over the years I think it's worth mentioning the evolution is exciting to see. The ENO was actually the very first generation and some kind of pioneer braking the barrier for further generations. iFi, SN and many more have tried to come up with their approaches. So a lot has happened over the years and the new ENO2 including many findings that went into the Muon Pro will be quite a game changer from what I heard. So for those deciding about where to go next think that should be on the list to try.

And if someone is looking for an EtherRegen, also with a Farad Super3, Level 2 DC cable with Furutech and SR Purple upgrades - I got one for sale :)

tonyptony
617 posts
 

@jmfinney, I know it’s a unfair comparison, but as you’re the only person I’ve seen so far who’s used both a full Muon Pro chain and a SmoothLAN, I’d like to understand where and to what degree the Muon surpasses the SmoothLAN.

jmfinney
82 posts
 

Tony,

I’ll PM you

jimboman
91 posts
 

Hey @ozzy

My SmoothLAN arrived and I did a first listening session.

My quick impressions: more punch, better instrument separation, and increased feeling that the music is outside the speakers.  In particular, pianos seem to have more 'weight', like going from a baby grand, to a 9' grand piano.  Same for drums.  Vocals are generally cleaner, more articulate.

The interesting thing is, the SL doesn't seem to hype/tilt the frequency response of my system; it neither adds/subtracts/shifts the balance...it just seems to make the music feel more 'full'.  More 'in the room'.  Very enjoyable.

I'm waiting for a second ethernet switch, so I can separate my computer network from my audio rig, and once that's in place, I'll give the SL a run-in period.

Looking forward to more listening.  The SmoothLAN is definitely a solid improvement to my enjoyment of my system.  Again, many thanks!

Best, JAMES.

 

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