But if you have an optical connection between a dac and a switch then there is no need to get a better switch because optical connections remove the noise and solve all the noise problems.
So the real solution is to go optical isn't this correct?
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,
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digital noise is but one problem to be solved in digital signal transfer for music the optical rendu and its ilk going to fiber optical then back is one good solution... but galvanic isolation can be accomplished successfully through other engineered solutions as well https://audiophilereview.com/cd-dac-digital/usb-cables-noise-and-galvanic-isolation/ https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/usb-cables-and-galvanic-isolation https://www.stereonet.com/forums/topic/512770-ethernet-system-for-audio-putting-it-all-together/ |
At this point no single best streaming solution has been discovered. @jumia You'd think 100% galvanic isolation would make anything prior superfluous, this not the case. Every single component in streaming chain will manufacture noise and/or allow noise in from emi/rfi, tthis noise detracts from attaining full resolving capabilities. Galvanic isolation certainly blocks the noise, but can't remove that which exists prior within equipment, connections and cable. So, as much as it makes sense to block noise after servers, it also makes sense to block it prior to server. My experience is what comes after server more important than prior, the closest components or cabling just prior to dac most important. Still, the whole question of what's important brings to mind the old Linn argument that source is most important in systems vs. loudspeakers. The truth is everything is important, always be mindful of weak links and treat those as they arise.
For my particular setup, the audiophile or any switch for that matter, was detrimental, adding another component, power supply and cabling only served to add noise, sometimes simpler is better. |
So I guess one of the biggest benefits is to have a Superb power management system to plug various components into. At least this gives the components a fighting chance to start fresh with hopefully improved and clean power. And beyond the component box, good as it is, everything beyond the component should be connected with higher quality well shielded cablng. |
you know, the technicals can be so complicated and so poorly explained most of the time. It's not rocket science, you just have to be aware of magnetic and electrical interference that does occur and having addressed this you add higher quality cables and maybe a little air freshener in the room and you're all good to go. |
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