Keep in mind this very important point. Because Ethernet cables, switches, converters and filters make a difference, the difference is not always positive.
So either buy used or buy new with a solid return policy.
Amazon is a good source for fiber optic conversion kits and switches. Take the minimalist approach
Get a switch if you need it or something like the iFi LAN iSilencer that you can plug into your wall Ethernet port then use a very good Ethernet cable out of iFi to streamer. Just one example of a simple configuration.
Do upgraded LAN cables/purifiers/switch box make a difference. What is recommended, if so?
Streamer / DAC is Orchard Audio PecanPi+ connected to a TP-Link SG105 switch with a slightly better than basic Ethernet cable. This in turn is connected to the wall (with same quality Ethernet cable).
For completeness, the PecanPi+ is connected via XLR to Benchmark HPA4 -> Benchmark AHB2 (bridged-mono) driving Martin Logan ESL 9's.
Analog (Clearaudio Concept Turntable) was upgraded (Sumiko Blue Point 3 MC, Benz Micro Lukaschek PP1 phono with SBooster power supply). This improved sound TT sound quality.
Now I'm looking for tweaks to the digital chain to make a difference. FWIW the streaming sound quality is already great. Don't want to spend more than USD 750 on all tweaks.
Would appreciate comments / recommendations.
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From a lower priced Ethernet cables I like Supra with Telegartner connectors. I use Wireworld Starlight 10 Twinax for router to switch and switch to Roon Nucleus One. These cables are very high quality and reasonably priced. |
In my experience I would not waste a dime on the Media Converters on Amazon. Quality Ethernet Switch (take your pick) I prefer the Edisoncreation Silent Switch OCXO with Upstream RJ45 cable NEET-1008-1: Neotech Ethernet RJ45 Cable, UP-OCC Silver, 1 meter feeding Sonore Optical Module Deluxe, (using Melco/Delia) C1 SFP + DAC (Direct Attach Cable) feeding Uptone Ether Regen, Downstream RJ45 Cable is FTA (Final Touch Audio) Metis feeding my Innuous Zenith. |
Another negative for the Amazon or cheapo media converters. I've been through the generic stuff fed by wall warts and lps, they both give and take away. A fully positive experience found in quality streaming products produced solely for music streaming, the Sonore equipment superior here. Also, one should experiment with transceivers in these media converters, not all created equal, the Finisar industrial grade 1475 is very nice. I also like silver for cabling, all silver or higher percentage in copper cables. |
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