2. digital
  3. 191749-165378

Streaming, Getting the Signal, Then What?

I feel so stupid not getting the streaming thing though at almost 70 years old I have moved more toward digital then any time previously.  My PS Audio AirLens into a PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK1 gets its signal from a Netgear Nighthawk CAX80 modem/router purchased in Jan. '22.  I know I get a signal. I hear music play. Is this Netgear product better than the freebie that the ISP provider installs?  I think so. But following discussion FORUM I tend to think I may be able to do better, maybe?

So chime please as to what perhaps I should considered considering my AirLense & MK1 DAC. PLEASE, do not tell me why what I have could be so much better if.... This post presumes I have the equipment I have. From modem/router to sources is a high end AudioQuest ethernet cable product. That also is out of the equation for whomever wants to opine as to my cable choice.

Recommendations please.  If it matters the sources feed into a PS Audio BHK Signature pre, then into a pair of PS Audio M1200 monoblocks.  Speakers are Ohm Walsh Tall 3000. Love love love the flexibility I get from omni-directionals.  O.K., you can share your thoughts about my Ohms. But budget doesn't allow MBL or German Physiks.  Thanks one and all.

veemike

Showing 1 response by akg_ca

akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,339 posts
 

@audioman58 

+1 ….

It’s beyond my pay-grade  to explain the technical bafflegab as to why inserting an “audiophile” grade network switch AND ( Emphasis added ) an external quality build Linear power supply to power the network switch, and insert them togetger into the streaming pathway between the router and streamer/dac serve to improve the audio performance l

Yep…. I was a hard ass card-carrying skeptic too . Somehow , I succumbed to select supporting reviewers suggestions in a””…WTF..it’s only comparatively modest money, so …,”  I bought them.

Now, all I know is that if  , and only if, you have a requisite quslity build high-resolution system , ( a fine but important distinction). then these added inclusions do work to improve the streaming experience.

Go figger.

NOTE: Intuitively, first upgrading all the Ethernet cables to high-end build made with Ag over Cu high shielding cables,  with premium Telegartner connectors was an equal partner in the audio improvements..

TAKEAWAY: 
 One size does not fit all …., full,stop.

(1) hey ….. it doesn’t have the same audio improvements in my $6K B” system, but it sure as shite does in the $50K “A” system.

(2) Do your own bake-offs,

Sample pontifications: 

https://youtu.be/BbRF8z8dQFU?si=XvmtUmXr1f1fCL4I

https://youtu.be/N66aDb7LZaM?si=RRVzAnHWGzEbxZaq

 

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