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Improving streaming SQ

I have an Aurender A10 and stream Tidal and Qobuz.  I'm looking for an easy and cost effective way to to improve streaming sound quality as it seems to fall a little short of my ripped CD's.  Artistic Fidelity makes an ethernet galvanic isolator (GISO GB) that plugs in between the CAT 6 cable and the Aurender.  I'm wondering if any one has tried this or a similar product and what your experience was.  I don't think this product is available in the USA, but I can get one shipped from Germany for 299 euros.  As always, any and all comments are appreciated!
shoff
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Ethernet is by design galvanically isolated. This is because of the distance and potential for major differences in voltage potential with different devices using different circuits.

So, I’d call BS on any Ethernet isolator.

I will call BS on your suggestion. You obviously don’t know enough physics or electronics. The capacitive coupling through the transformers is the issue solved by the isolator. Leave this advice to people with experience and education.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

usery
131 posts
 
that - was inevitable. 

after all, this _is_ forum.audigon.com.
markalarsen's avatar
markalarsen
638 posts
 
@audioengr 

Which is superior in terms of sound quality?  The Ethernet or USB input on the DAC?
markalarsen's avatar
markalarsen
638 posts
 
I understand you also like the SOtM switch. Still, it is $800. I am using Cardas Ethernet cables and the “Black Box” ($100) for galvanic isolation. I run my Router into a 24 port switch to my system using CAT6 into a four-port switch. Will replacing the four-port switch with a SOtM switch make a noticeable difference? Would I have to buy two SOtM switches so I could bypass the 24-switch?

BTW, I have met Steve Nugent aka @audioengr He is the real thing: an accomplished DAC designer.
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,702 posts
 
Good point about the volume equalization.... it destroys the dynamic range
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