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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
mitch2
3,762 posts
 

It would be interesting to hear your impressions if you took out all supplementary devices 

Interesting idea.  I will give that a try.  IME, my biggest streaming improvements over the years have been through upgrading components and digital processing.

BTW, the 45 feet of fiber vs. 45 feet of CAT8 Ethernet comparison is easy since both of those runs are already in place.

sns
3,006 posts
 

Yep, its usually the case several incremental upgrades result in an overall large upgrade. I nearly always do A>B>A comparisons to confirm I'm hearing what I think I'm hearing, especially with streaming. I've done a fair amount of experimentation with streaming equipment, expectations have never been so tested, A>B>A results exposed some 'upgrades' as not being real upgrades, lateral or backwards move on my part.

jerrybj
861 posts
 

I've completely changed my system over a year, but for reasons have not yet heard these changes. 

Linear power supplies, DC cables, fuses, Dac, network switches, grounding box, electrical filters, ethernet cables, streamer, USB cable, DDC, mains purifier, amp recap/update, I2S cable, changing from wifi to ethernet, LAN isolators, Qobuz.

Will set my system up close to as it was and add items systematically, which is not my usual style. Interested to hear the changes, and the effect these increments have on the whole.

jerrybj
861 posts
 

@sns 

I should be able to A>B>A if I take my time.

Just have to remember to take notes with every addition, as it becomes hard to remember.

sns
3,006 posts
 

This is why I've kept audio journal for twenty plus years, document every change. This has been extremely beneficial in moving forward rather than constant lateral or circular movement. Allows one to systematically build system with strong foundation, end of equipment churn.

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