Ethernet patch panel and network switch question

If you want to try a mod that actually may improve your streaming network, check out the following article in Absolute Sound:

How To Optimize Digital Streaming With Optical Fiber - Page 2 of 2 - The Absolute Sound

Having a fiber Ethernet connection between your network switch and steamer will eliminate any RF or eddy currents over a copper Ethernet patch cable. I have found this to work very well and is a low cost/high benefit mod.

I would also look at what brand and model router and switch you are using. On my network I am using Cisco SG350-20 switches which are intelligent or managed switches. Although harder to setup that a non-intelligent switch, have ports which can be setup for a direct fiber connection, they are typically higher quality and provide network statistics which can be used to monitor the health of you network environment. also take a look at what router you are using. There may be an opportunity to upgrade it as well depending on its age and quality level. 

Unless you need to connect other LAN components in your office (which need to communicate to each other), a network switch is likely ’overkill’ for your specific application (i.e. solely for the Antipodes K40).

However, if you are prioritizing sound quality improvements it may make a difference. Make sure you are using decent LAN cable from your basement’s router to the office. Hopefully you are doing that already. If you are not, then I recommend doing so first...before you start adding on passive filters, a switch, etc. [Note: go direct from the router (I'm assuming you have an extra LAN port on it) to the K40. In other words, do not run that cable via your patch panel]

@nmolnar ’s suggestion to look into a fiber optic solution is a good one.

There are many ways to approach this. I believe you will be able to improve your sound quality. One example, having a separate (dedicated) network for your music streaming (separate from your other home and office requirements).

THank you, gentlemen.  Unfortunately, running a separate LAN cable to the office for music isn't doable in this scenario.  If you're saying the ENO is a no-go, I will continue to enjoy my music as is.  It certainly sounds pretty damn good.  I was just hoping to improve upon it a bit.

Bill

@wtb Bill, I was addressing the switch specifically.

No harm in trying out the passive ENO, or any other for that matter.

In your situation, I would choose an active filter. Primarily since (I assuming) your patch panel is using standard install wiring; it is an unnecessary added ’interface’: and because it is likely ’more detrimental’ than you realize: for music.

The last point is why I suggested running a fresh and direct line. What makes that not doable, in your situation?

Our building was constructed in 1790 and later added onto in the late 1960s.  Quite attrative.  It was later bought and completely rehabbed by someone a few years prior to me purchasing the building.  They made the unfortunate error of foaming the entire building for insulation and failed to run any conduit to encapsulate LAN wiring.  ALL electrical and networking wires are foamed in place.  This has caused problems for us as we can't upgrade anything.  We can't fish a line b/c everything is hard foam insulated.  It's the only downside of owning this building.  So, that in a nutshell is why I can't run a LAN from downstairs in the basement where our network is located, to my personal office on the 2nd floor.  It's been an issue since I bought the building last year and we still haven't found an acceptable work around.

Bill