Cheapest way to enhance SQ with digital streaming


I could not stop but post my observations on remarkable SQ improvement with just a small change. I have been using digital streaming predominantly and have tried many things (cables, conditioner, room treatment). Everything does matter and they all did improve the quality without doubt and are definite investment. But after going through some reviews of fiber optic for Ethernet and their noise reducing properties compared to copper cables, I thought of giving a try. I connected Ethernet cable from router/Ethernet switch to media converter and fiber optic from this media converter (need SFP module) to second media converter (with another SFP module). Then regular Ethernet cable went from this second media converter to server/streamer. Basically the idea is to add fiber optic cable between the router and streamer, which will reduce the noise. But, wow, the difference was huge and amazing. Not sure how to explain the improvement, but the SQ was more fluid, melodious, fast, clean and separation of instruments were clear. The total cost for this was less than 150 (on Amazon). Apparently, as the fiber optic cable conductors are made of glass, they carry less noise compared to copper and also cost very cheap. Compared to money spent on other component in my system (have spent quite a lot), this is the most cost efficient and gave more improvement in the SQ. I am still amazed by this and very happy with what I heard. I feel negligent not to share with my fellow audiophiles, who are trying to get the best out and improve their system, sometime spending quite a bit for small difference. I guess, since the cost of trying this is so cheap (please don’t make me feel guilty for telling 150$ is cheap), try yourself and see the difference. On a different note, have been reading that use of Ethernet switch also does some “saucery” (I am no technical guy, but do read quite a bit of articles on audio) to reduce this noise to improve SQ and combination of fiber optic and the Ethernet switch takes SQ to different level. Will try some audiophile Ethernet switch sometime (may be uptone ethergen or Sotm snh-10g) to try out as I am very intrigued. 
romney80

Showing 5 responses by clive101

@romney80 again thank you.

just been looking at the Afterdark Network switches and upgraded version of the Melco S 100.

Has anyone experience of these or similar...but a little off topic as not cheap.

But I did order two Finisar and some fibre cable.... apparently top class.

I will post my findings when they arrive.

@romney80 Thank you for the FMC advice, greatly appreciated.

But you have just sent me down a rabbit hole 😉

@romney80 

S100 by AfterDark technically is a re-branded Melco with upgrades and a choice of clocks.

 DELA S100 - Audiophile Network Hubs #日本製 - AfterDark (adark.co)

vs

A double stacked Buffalo GS 2016 with clock customized.

AfterDark. Project ClayX Buffalo BS-GS2016 Cascade x Giesemann OCXO Bl (adark.co)

See the rabbit hole I am digging ;) 

To keep on topic, I wonder how these expensive switches compare to the cheap FMC, Cost vs SQ ? 

 

Just pulled the trigger on the Dela S100. Full upgrade.

LPS has to wait for the moment and will update the difference after burn in and intall of fibre cable.

 

Well the AfterDark Dela S100 has arrive and been burt-in.

Running from a  Sean Jacobs DC1 (on loan).

Just blown away with the SQ.