Network Acoustics Muon ethernet filtering system - Improving streaming sound quality


Network Acoustics recently rolled out a new top tier ethernet filtering system named Muon. It betters their already highly effective ENO offering which I purchased some 18 months ago.  I posted about the ENO filtering system back then and you can read it at the link located at the bottom of this member review.  
 

Everything I said about the ENO filtering system also applies to the new Muon system.  However, the Muon system offers even better sound quality by removing a greater amount of electronic and RFI/EMI noise.  The Muon filter is a passive device so their is no need for a power supply or power cord. That’s great! 
 

Like many of my fellow Agoners, I have come to depend on Qobuz and Tidal streaming for my music playback. I have not used any physical media in over 5 years, but also realize today’s servers/streamers can all benefit from digital noise blocking systems such as the Muon.  From high end audio switches to high quality ethernet cables I have learned they can all improve the sound quality of our streaming front ends.  I have tried going the fiber optic route and used other products such as the EtherRegen and while they do improve sound quality I find  the MUON system more musically engaging and compelling.  Here is my current digital front end:

(Netgear NighHawk modem/router powered by an LPS > Network Acoustics ENO ethernet cable> English Electric 8Switch powered by an LPS > Network Acoustics MUON ethernet cable > MUON ethernet filter > Innuos Zenith III >  Tchernov Ultimate USB cable -Mojo Audio Evo dac)

The MUON system is made up of the MUON filter and Muon ethernet cable.  You can buy these separately, but you’ll receive a nice discount by buying both as a system package. Here is a link to the Network Acoustics Website:

https://www.networkacoustics.com

I purchased the MUON system and have been enjoying it for several months now.  I feel it betters the ENO range in several important sonic ways. The noise floor is further reduced revealing more inner detail of instrument and voice.  This increased inner detail reveals subtleties previously lost.  In the end my music sounds more real and less reproduced. For me, improving realism is everything! 
 

With streaming it seems more difficult to obtain a nice 3D presentation as compared to a high end CD spinner.   Sometimes streaming can sound relatively flat compared to CD playback.  I found the Muon filter system delivered a more immersive experience due in large part to improving the 3D performance.   
 

For me the Muon filter is well worth the asking price as it made my listening sessions even more enjoyable. The rest of my system includes a Circle Labs A200 integrated amp, Fyne F704 speakers with upgraded crossovers and internal wire, and both Hijiri & Tchernov cabling.  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

128x128grannyring

@ghasley

Thanks for taking the time to post your system. That’s quite a system you got there…and I can certainly imagine the ‘upgrade’ from Uptone ER. I believe Grimm’s MU1 is going to be a game changer for you, I heard nothing but high praises. I own a similar device with Roon Core and End Point integration and it has ended my pursuit for best streaming player under $50K (including SOTA DAC).

As a side note, Hans Beekhuyzen reported that the effect of both ENO and Muon filters was minor when used with MU1. Apparently MU1 Internet I3 board is immune or insensitive to Ethernet pollution. In his test, he used a generic TP Link switch between his router and Muon filter. I remain curious to hear your feedback on how MU1 responds to with and without Rubicon/Muon combo in your system.

Enjoy the ride!

@ghasley 

 

Thanks for that. I also have an UpTone Audio ER + Paul Hynes SR4T LPS and good Cat 8 Network cables.

Are you using an LPS with the Rubicon or the supplied wall wart? If LPS, are you using an upgraded power cord too?

I also forgot to ask how long have the NA products been in your system? I know that the ER got better over the course of a month and so did the LPS.

@ghasley 

 

Thanks for posting your initial feelings.   Much appreciated! Give it a week of break in and report back.  Enjoy! 

@pokey77

Are you using an LPS with the Rubicon or the supplied wall wart? If LPS, are you using an upgraded power cord too?

The Rubicon actually ships from Network Acoustics with the well regarded iFi iPower Elite. As for power cables, I tried a few I have on hand (TelluriumQ Black, Audio Note ISIS) and I cant tell them apart, which is not the case on other gear I have. So I believe a good power cord is fine but I dont believe it makes a big difference.

@lalitk

Correct regarding the Han B review, differences were minor but its also telling that when you look at what he is using today in his review system, he has the SOTM switch and the Muon in front of the Grimm MU1. Ive always been a fan of cleaning up a mess at the earliest step in a chain that I can. I also wonder how resolving his system really is. Ive heard the Ayre although not with his Audio Physic (I once owned a pair of his new reference speaker, PMC, and they are quite good but they lean a little more toward the pro audio side for my tastes.) speakers, Ive also heard Audio Physic speakers and was never tempted by either. Horses for courses, belt and suspenders. I also have a dedicated line and yet I also have a power conditioner. Oh well, I guess there isnt any real issue to feed the MU1 too clean an ethernet signal LOL.

 

@grannyring

Yes, out of the box, the Rubicon/Muon was quite shrill to my ears…that settled down by the next morning and the following day of constant signals running through, it blossomed. I hate that shyt like breakin that I have a problem believing in is real but it is. Deniers can keep treating the common cold with leaches and bloodletting for all I care…I know what I’m hearing.

 

All I can say is there was an immense difference between the Rubicon/Muon vs the Ether Regen but there is certainly a large price differential that must be considered by many. If you are chasing the brass ring, the Network Acoustics gear is legit.

@ghasley

Is the solo Muon filter superior to Uptone Ether Regen?  Or are they different and adding both would be beneficial?

Thanks for sharing.