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Cheapest way to enhance SQ with digital streaming

I could not stop but post my observations on remarkable SQ improvement with just a small change. I have been using digital streaming predominantly and have tried many things (cables, conditioner, room treatment). Everything does matter and they all did improve the quality without doubt and are definite investment. But after going through some reviews of fiber optic for Ethernet and their noise reducing properties compared to copper cables, I thought of giving a try. I connected Ethernet cable from router/Ethernet switch to media converter and fiber optic from this media converter (need SFP module) to second media converter (with another SFP module). Then regular Ethernet cable went from this second media converter to server/streamer. Basically the idea is to add fiber optic cable between the router and streamer, which will reduce the noise. But, wow, the difference was huge and amazing. Not sure how to explain the improvement, but the SQ was more fluid, melodious, fast, clean and separation of instruments were clear. The total cost for this was less than 150 (on Amazon). Apparently, as the fiber optic cable conductors are made of glass, they carry less noise compared to copper and also cost very cheap. Compared to money spent on other component in my system (have spent quite a lot), this is the most cost efficient and gave more improvement in the SQ. I am still amazed by this and very happy with what I heard. I feel negligent not to share with my fellow audiophiles, who are trying to get the best out and improve their system, sometime spending quite a bit for small difference. I guess, since the cost of trying this is so cheap (please don’t make me feel guilty for telling 150$ is cheap), try yourself and see the difference. On a different note, have been reading that use of Ethernet switch also does some “saucery” (I am no technical guy, but do read quite a bit of articles on audio) to reduce this noise to improve SQ and combination of fiber optic and the Ethernet switch takes SQ to different level. Will try some audiophile Ethernet switch sometime (may be uptone ethergen or Sotm snh-10g) to try out as I am very intrigued. 
romney80
tksteingraber's avatar
tksteingraber
642 posts
 

I second this Lps.  I bought it for my pair of FMC’s and it made a very noticeable improvement. Prior to this Lps, I tried the ifi ipower wall plug Lps and it made no noticeable improvement in my system.  Fyi- This identical Lps unit can be bought under a different brand on Aliexpress for $62.

BRZHIFI SUPER 3.5A Dual Output Low Noise 25W DC Linear Regulated Power Supply 5V 9V 12V 

romanesq
95 posts
 

That's the model rebadged LPS by many others. @tksteingraber did you get the one for a little more with the Talema power supply? 

Second day running this LPS unit for both FMCs and it's easily produced the best I've heard out of my system. I thought the FMCs by themselves were a noticeable jump but the LPS is really significant and wouldn't want to be without it.  

tksteingraber's avatar
tksteingraber
642 posts
 

@romanesq no I purchased the Bengzi transformer which is the same as the Amazon one. Couldn’t find out any info on what is better about the Talema transformer for the extra $. Looking at pics of the inside of both LPS models they are mirror copies. Amazon is much faster at shipping and easier with returns. Both sound the same.

romanesq
95 posts
 

Yes, I looked up the Talema data sheet, and their transformers for this size, 25W and up look different. Among those resellers, I see the same transformer with the only difference I can find is the color. Otherwise, they look exactly alike. 

Still marveling at the improvement in my tube monoblocks system with the additionof the LPS into the second FMC. Once again, I did not expect that. 

 

 

rick_n's avatar
rick_n
253 posts
 

I haven't read the complete thread so forgive me if this has already been mentioned.

 

This didn't cost me a dime and really improved my SQ.  I'm streaming a Bluesound Node to a Hegel integrated.  There were two network switches (splitters) between my router and the node.  I removed both switches from the path and replaced with a Ethernet home run from the router directly to the Node streamer.  Bingo!  I didn't realize how much the switches were compromising the signal.  Huge improvement in the sound stage. 

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