Optical vs Ultra Rendu.


Is it worth the $696 more to go with the optical Rendu:

https://www.smallgreencomputer.com/collections/recommended-solutions/products/systemoptique-server-player-combo-sonictransporter-i5-or-i7-cdr-opticalrendu-4-port-gigabit-switch-with-fiber-port-and-power-supplies

Over the standard (ethernet connected) ultra Rendu:

https://www.smallgreencomputer.com/collections/audio-server/products/premier-server-player-combo-sonictransporter-i5-ultrarendu-7v-linear-power-supply

Has anybody compared these units, is there a notable difference in sound quality between these two?  Both still connect to the DAC via USB. 

high-amp

I can only compare directly to SOTM SMS200 Neo with two FMC, all powered by lps. OpticalRendu not an insignificant upgrade to that setup, really plays in different league, significantly lower noise floor and far more relaxed presentation. I presume lps used with OpticalRendu important, I use Uptone JS-2.

 

Sorry, can't help with UltraRendu, but based on a number of impressions from various reviewers OpticalRendu and/or Signature version both improve on some much more expensive streamers. OpticalRendu is really special IMO.

@high-amp No I have not compared them. I've only read about the opticalRendu anecdotally. It seems to garner very high praise, especially against streamers costing much more. I believe this is due to a combination of the fiber optic input and a low noise USB output. I don't have a need for one in my system presently. I am in the process of building a music server that will have a fiber NIC, so in the future I may get one to replace the Raspberry Pi I currently use. Sorry I can't help compare it to the ultraRendu.

What I don’t understand is do I need 2 optical Rendu ?

my setup from modem to router ,then long run of WWorld starlight cable 

to uptone Etherregen to AQ Diamond Ethernet cable ,to dedicated Audio computer to Final Touch Audio Callisto usb cable . What’s needed to make the optical rendu work in my system ?

@audioman58 -- I have the opticalRendu in my second (home office system). SmallGreenComputers sell a bundle that includes a separate power supply and an FMC bundle -- the cost of the bundle adds an extra $200 I think. My system is setup like this ...

Router >> Switch (which is optional) >> ethernet cable >> media converter >> fiber optics cable >> opticalRendu >> USB >> DAC

The only additional step compared to other streamers is that you insert a fiber-to-ethernet converter in between the streamer and your ethernet connection. It sounds more complicated than it really is. The other option is to buy a network switch that supports fiber optics output.

Ok Thank you , I take it I need 2 Ethernet cables or 3  from modem to router at least one Ethernet cable then rendu optical to a rj45 Ethernet converter ,then run fiber optic to another optical rendu then Ethernet cable to computer, from computer 

usb cable to dac , plus linear power supplies ,the optical Rendu I thought like 

$1200  each , is this correct ? Total outlay $$ wise around $4 k ,

unless there is a much easier less expensive way .

thanks much Everyone forthe options and assistance ,please letme know the$$ cost ,