Wifi vs hardwired for streaming

@vicweast Re the post in which you namechecked me: spot on, well said.

@pcolvin No, analog RFI noise is generated/transmitted/conducted/radiated/whatever as analog noise not converted. To be encoded digitally somehow would imply the data changes or is added to do and it doesn’t/isn’t, which is why corporate networking guys don’t see it as a thing.

@vicweast Re audio grade network switches not being "needed"; it really depends on what is incorporated into the design of a switch which makes it "audio grade". If it is primarily about ensuring the switch puts out less noise alongisde the output signal than it received alongside the input signal then it deserves the badge. 

Worth a read 

https://youtu.be/aCUq26A2Sdw

@6:41

https://youtu.be/34MxeKeSo0o

https://youtu.be/3YviIlAg4d4

https://youtu.be/FQFjFbjx2Sw

my experiences …..it depends .

i do both with good results . . ETHERNET direct cable connection ultimately was declared a winner in my A system after I went full Monty with ALL of the following and Each step matters ,

In my lesser systems without the same audio resolution, wireless is fine

- high-end top end build and properly shielded Ethernet cables with TELEGARTNER connectors 

- audiophile grade Ethernet switch,

- external linear power supply for the network switch, and

- Ethernet LAN filter.

If you want the best performance the only way to go is Ethernet. 

I think a streamer should give the owner both options and attempt to optimize both.  My Melco N 100 doesn’t do WiFi , and is it Aurender that offers both but recommends that the listener do WiFi?  That never made sense to me as WiFi should at best equal Ethernet, but I am sure that they have their reasons 

@vicweast Great post. A very clear explanation of the issue with noise and digital networks. The bits all make it intact, but the induced noise is the problem that comes with it.