Why do I need a switch?


I just watched a few videos about audiophile switches and I don’t understand the need. Cable comes into my home and goes to a modem and then a NetGear Nighthawk router. I can run a CAT6 to my system or use the wireless. If you don’t need more ports, why add something else in the signal path?  On one  of the videos the guy was even talking about stacking several switches with jumpers and it made the sound even better. He supposedly bought bunch’s of switches at all ranges and really liked a NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3) That costs $37 on Amaz.

Thanks in advance.

128x128curiousjim

Showing 2 responses by willgolf

I just got the Network Acoustic Muon Pro series Ethernet cable and filter.  It is an expensive Ethernet cable.  I am considering three switches.  Paul Pang, Ediscreation, and the new one that is due out in June from Network Acoustics.  These switches range in price from $1.8k - 4.4k.  

In the meantime, I have the D-link switch that I am inserting into my 2-channel system.  If I can hear an audible difference with the $50 D-Link then I will proceed to consider one of my three options above.  At this point, all I am out is $50 to try and experiment with.  I have Fiber and Cat 6 and I am electing to go back to Cat 6. If I do not hear any difference in SQ then I go without a switch at my Lucas Audio Music Server.  This to me is a very cheap test to try before investing any real money.  I have absolutely nothing to lose except $50.

I also just ordered a Teddypardo LPS that I am going to plug into my Netgear modem to my Araknis 310 and 210 router and switch for the whole house network that is in a separate area that feeds my theater room and two-channel room which are at different ends of the house. 

What just happened to my system?  I am a newbie to two-channel network switches.  I started researching them a month ago.  I thought my music sounded fantastic, to begin with.  I purchased a TeddyPardo LPS for the very front end of my whole house network to run my Netgear Modem.  Then I researched Switches.  I have an Araknis 310 and 210 Switch and Router for my whole house but nothing for my two-channel.  

I had a long conversation with Rob at Network Acoustics and I decided to buy the Muon Pro Cabling system with filter.  He also suggested I try a cheap Dlink switch in between my Cat6 and the server.  I could not understand what the switch or the Muon Pro series would do for my system.  That is why he suggested I try a cheap switch before investing more money in an expensive switch.  I should say that Network Acoustics also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

I have a relatively high-end system.  I could not believe the results I got when I added the $37 switch and the Muon Pro cables.  I am befuddled.  Wow!  My music has never ever sounded better.  

I am getting an upgraded Lucas Audio LDMS Music Server early next week.  Lucas Domansky is the designer and developer of the LDMS.  I currently have one and his Music Server is top-notch.  When he sends me the new one, he will include a new network switch that he says will blow my mind.  He also wants me to move my TeddyPardo to the switch he is sending me.  If my musical experience gets any better I might have to cancel the Aries Cerat equipment that I have on order.  I can't wait to get the new server and switch!