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Relationship between Ethernet Switch and SQ

This one will probably invite some withering mockery, but I will ask....

I only stream, and my streamer (Bryston BDP) is fed with an ethernet cable that runs back to my router.  Literally back to my router; there are enough output jacks on the router that I have a long run to the streamer and no ethernet switch in the chain (or the house system for that matter).   (There is an Eno filter right before the streamer).

I happen to OWN a nice LHY ethernet switch.  I am assuming that there is no reason to use it in this configuration, that is, assuming there are noisier switches, and less noisy switches, there is still no net benefit of adding any switch to this chain.  But maybe, just maybe, in the metaphysics of electrons that I do not understand, there is some reason why a nice switch prior to the streamer accomplishes something (in theory...I get that I can A/B test and try to fool myself whether I can hear a difference).  For the first person with a correct answer, I will mail a nice $600 switch to the address you specify! (JK)

mathiasmingus
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
8,175 posts
 

Adding switches, fiber optic conversion modules, linear power supplies and other similar tweaks will never turn a bluesound node into Grimm MU1. Invest into better quality components.

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,515 posts
 

@audphile1 

 

+1

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
6,189 posts
 

@audphile1 

FYI - Aurender’s operating system is stored and loaded from an SSD, that is also used for the system cache.

mathiasmingus OP
54 posts
 

Thanks so much for all the food for thought.  I did not think I would immediately make a purchase based in this thread...but I did.  It may surprise you (for those who care to read on), but I include my reasons.  I bought …..another Bryston(!) - a BDP3.  Reasoning (following a moderate amount of research):

 

  1. I like the BDP2, and the BDP3 should provide some sonic uplift.
  2. My system has moved from silver to black - replacing a silver 2 with a black 3.
  3. The Bryston user interface is terrible - web based, and similar to a 1982 personal computer.
  4. ,,,which means a lot of people steer clear based on the interface.  But I am very comfortable with it at this point, including all the configuration details, and it is very reliable.
  5. Research generated a largely consistent message of: BDP3 is underrated, excellent SQ (cruddy interface).
  6. I just run AES/EBU.  For USB, I’m sure an Innuos Zenith Mk 3 + Phoenix (and certain other high-end gear mentioned here) would likely exceed. 
  7. Very clean unit negotiated for $2350 used (plus tax and shipping). 
  8. Great company with great build quality and support.
  9. 2 or 3 years from now, digital will likely have advanced again - I will reassess after having good sound at good value for a few more years.

 

So that’s what I did! Somebody may argue that was a poor play for some reason, but not much lost if so.  Thanks again for your input!

 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
8,175 posts
 

@mathiasmingus congrats on the purchase! The BDP3 if my memory serves is Roon ready. I’d give that a shot for the free trial period and compare the sound quality of Manic Moose vs. Roon. I’ve seen the Bryston software and I am pretty sure Roon is leaps and bounds better. Worth every penny especially when contrasted against the Moose. 
 

@lalitk thanks…didn’t know that. 

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