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Audiophile router configuration

I'm not sure why no one shared their experiments with router configuration that can improve sound quality after years of audiophile network switch hitting mainstream audiophile. So here's my recommendation for you guys to try and see if it will help in your system.


1. Use WiFi 2.4GHz for lower noise level

2. Setup 2.4GHz to use legacy mode (So you can disable WMM)

3. Disable WMM Support for lowest possible latency


Although your maximum bandwidth will be limited to 54Mbps only. However, you can get smooth bandwidth with lowest ping spikes with more micro detail. I'm quite surprised how WiFi can sound better than my expectations.


And if you want to have faster internet, you can always use 5GHz network and leave 2.4GHz for dedicated audio only. Some other options also affected sound quality too and I'm still testing to find optimal configuration.


windowsx
mastering92
870 posts
 
As a former Network Admin/Engineer, I think you should probably get a better router. Sounds to me like you have a router that maxes out at 54Mbps for media consumption. You should be aiming for at least 300mbps in full duplex mode - with any performance settings maxed out. A router with 2 or more high-gain antennas is ideal.

FYI - get a CAT 8 cable if using with a laptop or desktop computer. Much better shielding and reduced latency in packet delivery. It can be like 10-15 bucks..and it'll work better than previous iterations like CAT 6.


lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,055 posts
 
Wired Ethernet is the way to go if you are serious about enjoying high quality streaming!

Here is a recent discussion on getting the best out of your router,

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pimping-your-router
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,393 posts
 
I’m now using CAT8 to my Node2i with Cullen PC, wifi to FireTV. Fios 200mbps, Android for control. It’s very fast, no dropouts.
I have the router plugged into a Brick Wall PC 8’ away from audio, separate circuit. I used a RF "sniffer" and found high levels of RFI on the coax entering my house but no RFI at the Brick Wall or router, zero RF at my audio system.
And a noticeable improvement in the noise floor.


steakster
1,794 posts
 
The OP is the creator of 'Fidelizer-Audio'.   Any suggestions he offers should be seriously considered.
hdm
1,055 posts
 
Thanks for this. Although I wasn't able to disable WMM (not possible with the router I'm using) I did separate the networks and am now running the laptop for audio on a dedicated 2.4 GHz network with everything else running off the 5 GHz branch. 

There is a noticeable improvement in sound quality doing this. 
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