WiFi Streaming Versus An Ethernet Cable Connection


Hey All,

I have a fairly new Bryston BDP 3 streamer/renderer. I haven't been all that happy with the sound of streaming on Qobuz. However may local files on my SSD sound astonishing. The router I'm using is standard for 500 GB but it's nothing special. I'm currently connected to my BDP 3 with a utilitarian 7 cat ethernet cable. Instead of buying a better modem/router and audiophile ethernet cable, I'm considering Bryston's WiFi dongle. Anybody familiar with wireless HiFi streaming? Thanks!

goofyfoot

Showing 1 response by agisthos

If you have standard network gear there is usually no difference between Ethernet and Wi-Fi. If you have decent audiophile network hardware, low noise LPS e.t.c then ethernet pulls ahead and can be noticeably better.

I think the whole jitter/reclocking theory about audiophile switches is wrong, and it's more likely high frequency noise is passed down the chain that ultimately effects the D/A conversion and small signal amplifications stages. Nothing to do with packet timing e.t.c.

But if that were true wouldn't an air-gap like wi-fi be the ultimate choice? I believe the wi-fi chips themselves have a huge amount of high frequency noise that deleteriously effects local circuitry. For example, if using just a router for all connections, turning off the 2G and 5G internal wireless (if possible) leads to an increase in transparency. Those wi-fi chips are not designed to be near delicate small signals and DAC's.