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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
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

Uptone has a money back guarantee. Unlike the smartass who sits and wonders then makes a snarky comment about something they have no experience with that adds nothing to the conversation, I have tried a variety of such devices including a variety of USB and ethernet reclockers so I at least have a basis for comment. I tried the Regen and returned it as I did not hear a difference.

unfortunately this type of thing happens way too often on this board

smart asses without knowledge or experience, just talking sh*t - truly lame 

talking sh*t is available as an option for folks who don’t have $640 to spend, even for a product with a money back guarantee

usernames, faceless identities are free

gosta's avatar
gosta
839 posts
 

So, what is it supposed to do?

sns
3,246 posts
 

Well, lets go in to the nitty gritty.https://audiophilestyle.com/forums/topic/62477-john-swenson-tutoring-paper-considerations-regarding-usage-of-external-reference-clocks-etherregen-and-other-sine-vs-square-impedance-cables%E2%80%94and-a-money-saving-surprise-at-the-end/

jorjlien's avatar
jorjlien
52 posts
 

I'll go for a LPS or iFi iPower to the modem & router will do the job on better signal. Much cheaper than network switch. 

jerrybj
866 posts
 

Yes, certainly cheaper.

But in my experience, the network switch I have was markedly better than without.

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