SOtM dCBL-CAT8M - Is this the new reference in LAN cables?


I just came across an official announcement on SOtM’s highest grade Ethernet cable ~ dCBL-CAT8M. Interestingly, the new LAN cables sports not one but two filter blocks on each end of the cable.

The premise of trying this cable in a fully tricked out SOtM system with their sNH-10G network switch is quite tempting. It will be interesting to hear how a complete SOtM system compares to my current reference, Telegartner M12 Gold Switch with JCAT Signature GOLD M12 LAN cable and Optimo 3 Duo LPS.

There is no official review yet so I am hoping to hear from anyone currently using this cable and said improvements over dCBL-CAT7 in your digital streaming system. Where exactly did you find most improvement, before or after the Ethernet switch?

Opinions are welcome from those who believe in the importance of Network Optimization, thank you!

Happy Holidays 🎄

128x128lalitk

I’ve rid myself of any Fiber @lalitk, many moons ago. And that is not without somewhat trying. Those that do incorporate Fiber Optic Interface in some form or fashion, I show no discontent. 

Maybe a question better left for SOtM? Or you could just wing-it / explore. 

@dabel 

Thanks for sharing your experience. I am still on the fence as my last experiment with Fiber at entry level media converters was not great. We will see, just looking at all angles to fully maximize my investment :-) 

@lalitk Hi, I use an Ediscreation Fiber Box II (Optical Isolator) from my router (fiber in) via RJ45 and then RJ45 to my N20.

My question is would a switch sound better than the Fiber Box or should I use a switch in addition?

I don’t have any need for additional RJ45 outlets, excepting I feed my TV and TV Box straight from the router.

You have mentioned in other posts that fiber creates more noise than RJ45 and am curious why you decided to go for the sNH-10G switch instead of waiting for the Taiko switch?

You also said optical isolation would not be required for the Taiko switch.

Anyway my system sounds great but we’re all looking for that little boost.

Thanks in advance.

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@lordmelton

I do not have any direct experience with Fiber Box II so I cannot say that adding a switch would or wouldn’t yield further improvements. It appears on paper that Fiber Box II is addressing and reducing the noise and jitter. Whether adding a switch further improves sound or not, this is something you would have to try in your system.

I have already stated my reasoning to audition SOtM switch, the 10MHz clock input and their newest CAT8M LAN cable with double filter block. Trying a fibre with SOtM switch has a slight advantage as it eliminates the need for one external converter box and LPS on receiving end. Again, i will be comparing copper LAN with Fiber to access which sound better to my ears.

As far as Taiko new products which include switch, router and re-designed network card; they are specifically designed to enhance performance of Taiko Extreme. And their availability (for now) is exclusive to Taiko Extreme existing and future owners. As per Emile, non-Taiko users will not get the full benefit, which includes a software / firmware interaction. If you would like to learn more about Taiko switch or router, I suggest you to check out Taiko Extreme thread on WBF.