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Do I really need an " Audio Grade Network Switch "?

I think it's been a quite controversial topic for years, like what's the difference between normal network switch and an audio grade network switch, the price difference is certainly obvious though...
Anyway, I've done some researches, most audio reviewers say that under this " new digital streaming era " that an network switch is a must for an audio system, which is understandable for me, I mean because if I wanna play TIDAL or Qobuz or Spotify, I gotta use network so I can stream these online services, so yeah I get that if the network quality is good enough, it can possibly level up the music performance.

But anyhow, I'm new to this area, so I don't like to spend big bucks on my first purchase hahaha... there's a very wide range of the prices though, the top one is Ansuz Power Switch I think, the inner circuit and design look pretty sharp, and surely over my budget lol

So I'm choosing between Bonn N8 and SW-8, these two both got good reviews, and the prices seem so darn much friendly to me as I'm looking for an entry level switch now, do any of you have any insights to share?
or should I just go for the higher level ones?

Best,

preston8452
ghdprentice
6,976 posts
 

I have the best audio system I have ever heard… in fifty years of pursuing the high end. My digital streaming is equal in every way to my analog end (also outstanding). I use a common NETGEAR router ( which I upgraded recently and it had no impact on the sound) and a cheap NETGEAR wall wart extender next to my system. My system would compare well with the very best available.

So, I do use a EtherRegenerator… ($600), it does not significantly influence my system (like upgrading an already good power cord or interconnect). It is the quality of my streamer (Aurender W20SE) that is responsible for the incredible sound… and the subsequent components and speakers. See my ID to see my systems. Perhaps additional emphasis on the network can improve things. But I think the Aurender is cashing the files and making sure the network has not screwed them up and no noise is in the digital stream.

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

in a highly resolving system, managing digital noise through to the dac matters

a good switch (with a clean power supply) and other methods to minimize and purge noise in its various forms can be very helpful in making digital sound as smooth and natural as top flight analog

melm
1,081 posts
 

Following the suggestion of an industry professional in this area I’m using an inexpensive D-Link Ethernet switch together with an iFi Ultimate 5 volt power supply. The switch has a grounding screw which is grounded to my preamp.

Inserting this into the system made a very clear improvement in SQ. Could I have achieved much more by buying an $x00 audiophile switch (which may very well have a D-Link at its core)? I don’t really know.

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