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Router for Audio Streaming

I have been streaming Pandora, Spotify and Qobuz through a wifi network streamer from a Netgear AC1750 R6400v2 router with no sound quality complaints.

Recently a router firmware update failed (a known issue with these) and as a result it is no longer accessible for administration.  It still seems to perform ok and accepts new devices however the network settings are "frozen" and I am unable to view device IP addresses or traffic, neither via desktop browser nor via the Nighthawk app.

I will try a factory reset but have read that quite often this does not work in these situations, so I started investigating getting a new router to be able to pull the trigger quickly if needed.

I heard/read that routers can make a difference in sound quality, beyond just being able to keep up with streaming with no buffering.  I'm wondering what router experience and recommendations folks have here for reliable audio streaming with superior sound quality at a reasonable price.

Thanks!

yoramguy1
yoramguy1 OP
69 posts
 

@cakyol , thanks.  I have been streaming audio over wifi for over 10 years, more than 3 with the current router.  My streamer requires 2.4GHz.  As I mentioned a few posts up I have around 10 devices on the same network and do not have issues.  Sound quality is on par with, maybe better than my Sony ES CD player (most likely thanks to the DAC). Speedtest is showing regularly 300-350 Mbps download at my Mac over wifi.

teknorob23
22 posts
 

@yoramguy1 apologies I missed that and I thought you were looking to explore how  you could improve SQ. if you’re streaming via Wi-Fi any, even basic routers will be fine. :)

yage
401 posts
 

@yoramguy1

The good news: Contrary to the Netgear horror stories I was able to hard-reset and update my current router and all is well.

Good stuff!

From your netstat output, it looks like your network is performing normally.

yoramguy1 OP
69 posts
 

Thank you, @yage !  It was very helpful.  That dump was before fixing the router.  I can only assume that nothing changed for the worse.  Thanks again!

@teknorob23, no worries!

nmolnar
43 posts
 

I would look into a mesh router system. I've had good luck with the Netgear Orbi series and the Synology line of routers. Older routers may still function but lack many of the newer WiFi standards and may no longer receive security updates from their manufacturer. If the router is at least 4-5 years old, I would replace it if only from a network/data security and performance standpoint.

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