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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
 

One question came to mind as I wait for the delivery of the Snake River Boomslang ethernet cable.  We didn't discuss the servers role in the overall sound of a digital front end.  I use the Small Green Computer sonicTransporter i5 server.  Would an upgrade at that position have any significant impact?  I have read that some servers have more built in noise reduction etc, obviating the need for better power supply, optical isolation etc.  Just thought I would ask the group while I await the cable.

rivinyl OP
213 posts
 

If anyone is still looking at this thread, the Snake River Boomslang has finally arrived.  Its arrival delayed by winter.  In any event, my first impression is quite positive.  It has brought an increase in detail and a sparkle to the high end.  Bass is a little lean, but Jonny suggests it will "fill out" over 72 hours or so.  I will update this post in a few days.  But definitely a step in the right direction.

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,462 posts
 

Yep, "sparkle ... and lean bass..." are the mark of an unbroken-in piece of audio equipment. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,938 posts
 

I use the Small Green Computer sonicTransporter i5 server.  Would an upgrade at that position have any significant impact? 
 

Server matters. Ethernet cables on the server matter as well. Set up a clean network feed for the server and you will hear an improvement in sound quality. 

rivinyl OP
213 posts
 

Perhaps a silly question.

I believe Toslink is optical?  If so would the optical cables used by devices such as the Sonore optical isolators work with a Toslink port on the DAC/Server?

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