Optical vs Ultra Rendu.

@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 ,

@audioman58 -- you don't need two opticalRendus. You can get the opticalRendu bundle (which gives you everything you need to set it up) for under $1700. I'm not sure why you think you need two opticalRendus. I have only one in my system and it is a really good streamer for the price.

Your setup would be modem>(via ethernet cable)router>FMC>(via optical cable)OpticalRendu>USB in on dac. OpticalRendu $1500 plus FMC $25 or so, $6 optical cable, plus lps for opticalrendu and FMC (optional lps). Get good power supply for OpticalRendu, best you can afford.

At some point you may want to look into getting a switch rather than going out from relatively noisy router.

imho the upgrade to the optical rendu is definitely worth it, it is a noticeable improvement in my system, to my ears