One could argue that small boxes to "filter" Ethernet signals, and especially reclocking, may be less important if the server has a high quality input such as JCAT's OCXO clocked NET Card XE network card. I could still imagine a benefit from isolation to remove EMI/RFI, which is why I use fiber from my router to my server (with converters and short Ethernet cables at each end). The GigaFOILv4-INLINE Ethernet Filter can also be used to provide optic isolation.
Can the digital "signal" be over-laundered, unlike money?
Pretty much what is implied by the title.
Credit to @sns who got me thinking about this. I've chosen a path of refrain. Others have chosen differently.
I'm curious about members' thoughts and experiences on this?
Though this comes from a 'clocking thread' by no means am I restricting the topic to clocking alone.
Please consider my question from the perspective of all ["cleaning"] devices used in the digital chain, active and passive.
From member 'sns' and the Ethernet Clocking thread [for more context]:
"I recently experienced an issue of what I perceive as overclocking with addition of audiophile switch with OXCO clock. Adding switch in front of server, NAS resulted in overly precise sound staging and images."
"My take is there can be an excessive amount of clocking within particular streaming setups.
...One can go [to0] far, based on my experience."
Acknowledgement and Request:
- For the bits are bits camp, the answer is obvious and given and I accept that.
- The OP is directed to those that have utilized devices in the signal path for "cleaning" purposes.
Note: I am using 'cleaning' as a broad and general catch-all term...it goes by many different names and approaches.
Thank You! - David.
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@sns there are a lot of people who hate the concept of using practical technology as a source (a computer)….to do the same thing as the defunct tech they’re using (“streamer”) they spent thousands on to accomplish the same thing. Audiophile has become synonymous with “old people overpaying for dressed up old tech” in a lot of other forums. |
My experience is that a really good Ethernet switch with attention paid to the PSU and the clock improves the natural timbre of voices and instruments, along with a general increase in clarity. Adding a top class Ethernet Filter to remove RFI and stop it getting into the ground plane of the downstream electronics lowers the noise floor of the music, giving more fine detail and dynamics and a larger soundstage with more air and space around instruments. So the two working together is the golden ticket. |
I doubt the devices mentioned here would over launder., consider how many times this signal has been through switches and routers, changed from copper to optical and back before it reaches your house. You can do anything you want with these contraptions as long as it measures below a certain db at the analog of the DAC you're good . |
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