WiFi streaming — streamer vs. through iPad

I’m using eero mesh network and have no issues, it works great. 

Can someone explain why Mesh may sound better than an extender? Is it better at avoiding AC wire line noise?

@soix 

You hit it on the head.

I agree with @bkeske on software being a two-way road. Qobuz Connect is something Qobuz has to make, which is a tool to help streamer manufacturers implement native support easier. Qobuz is considering making a "Connect" option like Spotify and Tidal have, but last I check Qobuz hasn’t committed to the project yet. Without a Qobuz Connect product, streamer manufacturers have to write bespoke code to implement a service, which I imagine is resource and time intensive.

I treat the iFi streamer like the Sonore and SOTM products--they’re made to be used with Roon. @soix if you’re like me, you won’t want to use MConnect or BubbleUPNP for long to use Qobuz with the Zen Stream. Roon is a much more elegant and convenient streaming solution, but it will take some initial setup to get going.

I wouldn’t say that a Mesh Wifi system sounds better than using extenders. I’m saying you could use this opportunity to improve you home Wifi while also connecting a hardline to your streamer. If your only interest is sound quality, whether you go with a mesh system or extender, just make sure the access points support ethernet out to connect to the streamer. Once you have a wired connection, I would recommend converting the ethernet line to fiber optic. Small Green Computer has youtube videos on how to do this for about $100 of gear. I believe that adding the fiber line was a significant sonic improvement. 

I do not think you are going to hear a difference between an extender and mesh. I have had a friend that has had noting but problems with mesh. Mesh is just newer. So, tne bugs will get worked out. But. My experience suggests the biggest difference is in the streamer you use. The better the streamer, the better it isolates and sounds better with any input.