Ethernet Cables - what are you using and why?

I use short runs of Audioquest Dragon Ethernet and where a long run is required I use fiber optic.  I do think that if your plan is to upgrade your streaming system, and assuming your Ethernet cables are not the cheapest thing you can find on Amazon, there are better ways to spend your money to improve sound.  In my system the best bang for buck was the DAC (buy the best you can afford). After that a good/capable streamer). If you are playing music off your PC … consider a Roon Nucleus. If you have a long run of cable from source to DAC (and you should have) then add fiber optic. Ethernet cable upgrades would be low on my list of upgrade priorities.  They are not going to give you bang for buck unless you are using very low quality Ethernet cable. Some people will disagree with my priorities and that’s what this hobby is about.  My main point is be patient and save up for upgrades that really move your listening enjoyment forward in the most noticeable/enjoyable way.

I’ve seen some mind-bogglingly high end home theater setups and don’t recall one of them using a fancy Ethernet cable (e.g. for streaming 4K). Atmos didn’t seem to have any issue with regular Ethernet trimmings; perhaps 2Ch HiFi streaming responds differently. 😉

Cardas Clear CAT7 from modem to DAC

Your best Ethernet cable should be at your end point .

from router I have a AQ Diamond which is very detailed and a Jcat Reference at the end point which has 6% gold ,it is very detailed yet with the slightGold overlay 

a very natural detailed balance. When buying a cable connectors too matter.

Telegartner connectors are considered by many the best connectors.

and both of these cables have them which is a plus.

Triode wire labs freedom ethernet cables. Custom lengths of over 6 ft from my wifi extender to ethernet switch via optical fiber and shortest possible 16" length from ethernet switch to streamer. Excellent setup. Streaming sounds as good as vinyl. Made in USA.