WiFi System Upgrades

Scott - I'm using no-name CAT6 from a local computer store and it works flawlessly - the run is 30+ ft long and it passes through a Ethernet Switch on the way from the NAS to the Node 2

I'm into DIY cables, so I make my own - but they are extremely good - I've compared them to cables costing thousands and I find mine offer better performance - believe it or not.

One other thing I've found with all my components, using my power cables will result in the components operating at lower temperatures and they provide improved clarity and spacial accuracy.

Here's a link if you are interested...
http://image99.net/blog/files/be8de0c383c5434907610d6b55049e69-75.html
http://image99.net/blog/files/4127b5fe2694586e383104364360373b-74.html

For the power cables - even if you don't use the conductors identified in the link, adopting the Helix geometry alone will provide significant improvements. I adapted an 18 gauge cable on my Yamaha mini system and the improvements amazed me.

If you are not into DIY, then I would suggest a power cable from Pangea or Anti Cables perhaps.

I like the braided architecture of Anticables and based on that I believe they would provide pretty good bang for the buck, but they are quite thick,

Unfortunately, when the component only costs $599, spending a lot on  cables seems a little ridiculous and most of the power cables out there are on the expensive side. But I have found that the more "affordable components" benefit the most from great cables

 For connecting the power cable to the Node 2, I use a Cryo'd adapter from Take Five Audio to connect the standard IEC connector to the smaller C7 socket.

https://www.takefiveaudio.com/categories/82-ac-adapters-nema-uk-schuko-c7-c5

Hope that helps :-)

Thanks for the reply, williewonka.

I may have to get an adapter (didn't even consider an adapter until your reply, thanks) for the Node 2 and try a different power cord. I run a WireWorld Stratus on my amp and would like to upgrade that a bit in the future. When I do I'll try the Stratus on my Node 2.

Enjoy your Node 2. I think you'll like it more and more. I noticed the music refining as the days went by gaining in scale, fullness and resolution. It really is a great piece of gear.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott - those are very interesting power cables - how did they compare to other power cables you have used?

They are also pretty resonably priced - BONUS!  :-)

Thanks

@williewonka

I'm afraid I'm not much help with comparisons. It's the only after-market cord I have used. Compared to the stock PC it is more refined and more quiet which gives more detail and resolution. I don't believe it changed the character or tonality of my amp

I like it well enough that when I upgrade I'm going to try the WireWorld Electra 7, with the only change being that the Electra has OCC copper over the Stratus' OFC.

I like WireWorld's philosophy; in that the lower end stuff that fits my budget has the same technologies and build quality as the higher end pieces. As you move up you benefit from more/better material, such as OCC, silver and larger conductors. They're not the only company that does this but it is one the best at offering great cables for all budgets. My system consists of all WireWorld cabling.

Don't know if you knew this but the Bluesound gear will be "Roon Ready" by the end of the year. I enjoy BluOS and think it is excellent but it will be nice to have the option of using Roon if one so chooses.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott - I’m now in my new house and have the system up and running - finally.

The Node 2 has been playing for a few weeks and hopefully well broken in and it is the best sounding digital setup I have had to date.

But in the quest for "audio nirvana" I had one last tweak to apply - I purchased a C8 Figure 8 IEC connector from Ebay and installed it on the power cable. I was using a standard 3-pin connector with a C7 adapter.

The improvement was immediately noticeable with a much improved cavernous and enveloping image.

I’ve also added one to my sub on the A/V system and that improved also - I would recommend getting one for any component with a Figure 8 socket

There is now very little difference between my analogue and digital audio - apart from the pops and crackles. This is exactly where I wanted to be.

So for now, I’m willing to just sit back and enjoy the music.

Just looked at Wireworld and their Symmetricon power cables look very interesting. Have you thought of trying them? :Look at theri Fluxfield cables - similar to my Helix from the looks of things

How’s your system panning out?

Cheers - Steve