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Improving on the stream of a combined streamer dac

I recently (foolishly) compared the streamed sound of my Electrocompanient

ECM 1 Mk II to internally stored digital downloads on the same ( ie not stored in my Small Green Computer server).  I was surprised how much better the downloaded files sounded.  Perhaps, I was naive to think otherwise.  So, I started looking at old audiogon threads to see if I could figure a quick and easy fix to up the sound of the streamer but found little that made sense or was affordable.  My question is whether I should continue to search, or if I should take it for what its worth and just listen to the music.  The rest of my digital front end:  Small Green computer server,  a Trendnet unmanaged switch and the ECM.  I use a Luna Orange ethernet cable from switch to ECM and a Purist Audio cable to the SGC.  Thanks for your advice and happy holidays to all.

rivinyl
rivinyl OP
213 posts
 

Got it thanks!

rikkipuu's avatar
rikkipuu
355 posts
 

I've found streaming very sensitive to various types of noise.  Using a filter on your Ethernet cables like the Network Acoustic, SOtM etc.  An Audio purposed Switch with SFP inputs and outputs and adding a LPS is beneficial.  Converting Ethernet to fiber can be a giant noise killer.  

rivinyl OP
213 posts
 

I appreciate your comments but have heard from others that the ethernet filters can blunt the higher frequencies.  Not sure which opinion is correct.

Suspect its all system dependent.

 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,948 posts
 

I had and sold Network Acoustics Eno Streaming System (filter and cable). It was too mellow and boring sounding. If your system needs to be mellowed out because your digital is too harsh, it could be an option. I did not like the effect it had on my streaming gear. 

foggyus91's avatar
foggyus91
612 posts
 

All the rage at WBF and people are tossing high dollar networking gear to the curb. Myself included. No Regen, No Optical Modules.... https://www.whatsbestforum.com/threads/review-the-best-yet-most-affordable-network-switch-tplink-wr902ac.41708/page-26#post-1099319

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