Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

currently i'm using the new MSB 'Roon capable' Ethernet Renderer on the MSB Select II, and then using the SGM server as the Roon host. i'm able to A/B that to the SGM with USB.

they are too close to call so far, with a very, very slight nod to the new Renderer.

there is a new 'Evo Spec' upgrade coming for the SGM server. when that happens i will see whether that upsets the stand off.

i've also run some optical cable in my conduit from my NAS to my audio room where the MSB and SGM are, so we will see how that might change things, as well as trying other Gigaswitches and linear power supplies.

at the top of the food chain, it's not yet clear where this is going.

We talk about introducing jitter on ethernet, but what about the ethernet connection from my Eero mesh router into my server?  Should I try optical isolation here or just a nice ethernet cable only?

The primary improvement seems to occur in the last connection of Ethernet before the DAC.  If your server is Ethernet driven, but S/PDIF or USB to the DAC, then good cables and isolator as well as upgraded LPS for the router will probably make a difference.  It makes a difference with my Sonos driving my Synchro-Mesh reclocker with S/PDIF.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

So should I use one of my extra LPS's with my router and my modem?

Worth a try for the router.  I would not bother with the modem.

These need to be fast-reacting, which most LPS are not.  The Sboosters are I think.

Steve N.