WiFi System Upgrades

williewonka, thanks for the update. I’m running WireWorld Equinox interconnects on my Node 2. I’m using the Node via Ethernet connected to my router (the Ethernet cable run is 20 feet and I’m using Blue Jeans Belden cat6a cable). The Ethernet cable run is too long to consider higher end brands. I’m running iTunes AIFF files wirelessly to my router. Are you using a different power cord on your Node 2? Thanks.

The family and I love streaming. As I type I'm listening to WGUC out of Cincinnati. I believe they use a 192kbs stream and it sounds great. With a tap I can listen to KDFC out of San Fransisco or stream a station from Belgium or Wales or Antarctica or Asia. It's pretty cool. We don't us any premium services just the lower rez free streams from TuneIn, Spotify etc. I don't stream for serious listening but that could change if I ever pay for the higher Rez premium services.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott - I'm using no-name CAT6 from a local computer store and it works flawlessly - the run is 30+ ft long and it passes through a Ethernet Switch on the way from the NAS to the Node 2

I'm into DIY cables, so I make my own - but they are extremely good - I've compared them to cables costing thousands and I find mine offer better performance - believe it or not.

One other thing I've found with all my components, using my power cables will result in the components operating at lower temperatures and they provide improved clarity and spacial accuracy.

Here's a link if you are interested...
http://image99.net/blog/files/be8de0c383c5434907610d6b55049e69-75.html
http://image99.net/blog/files/4127b5fe2694586e383104364360373b-74.html

For the power cables - even if you don't use the conductors identified in the link, adopting the Helix geometry alone will provide significant improvements. I adapted an 18 gauge cable on my Yamaha mini system and the improvements amazed me.

If you are not into DIY, then I would suggest a power cable from Pangea or Anti Cables perhaps.

I like the braided architecture of Anticables and based on that I believe they would provide pretty good bang for the buck, but they are quite thick,

Unfortunately, when the component only costs $599, spending a lot on  cables seems a little ridiculous and most of the power cables out there are on the expensive side. But I have found that the more "affordable components" benefit the most from great cables

 For connecting the power cable to the Node 2, I use a Cryo'd adapter from Take Five Audio to connect the standard IEC connector to the smaller C7 socket.

https://www.takefiveaudio.com/categories/82-ac-adapters-nema-uk-schuko-c7-c5

Hope that helps :-)

Thanks for the reply, williewonka.

I may have to get an adapter (didn't even consider an adapter until your reply, thanks) for the Node 2 and try a different power cord. I run a WireWorld Stratus on my amp and would like to upgrade that a bit in the future. When I do I'll try the Stratus on my Node 2.

Enjoy your Node 2. I think you'll like it more and more. I noticed the music refining as the days went by gaining in scale, fullness and resolution. It really is a great piece of gear.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott - those are very interesting power cables - how did they compare to other power cables you have used?

They are also pretty resonably priced - BONUS!  :-)

Thanks

@williewonka

I'm afraid I'm not much help with comparisons. It's the only after-market cord I have used. Compared to the stock PC it is more refined and more quiet which gives more detail and resolution. I don't believe it changed the character or tonality of my amp

I like it well enough that when I upgrade I'm going to try the WireWorld Electra 7, with the only change being that the Electra has OCC copper over the Stratus' OFC.

I like WireWorld's philosophy; in that the lower end stuff that fits my budget has the same technologies and build quality as the higher end pieces. As you move up you benefit from more/better material, such as OCC, silver and larger conductors. They're not the only company that does this but it is one the best at offering great cables for all budgets. My system consists of all WireWorld cabling.

Don't know if you knew this but the Bluesound gear will be "Roon Ready" by the end of the year. I enjoy BluOS and think it is excellent but it will be nice to have the option of using Roon if one so chooses.

Cheers,

Scott