Mesh network versus a simple Wi-Fi extender

@soix-

I can’t speak to the improved sound “quality” of streaming but I had previously suffered continuous dropouts and stuttering (for lack of a better description) which was driven by the router. When changing equipment I had been advised to use extenders (Powerline) as opposed to mesh but it was the router that made the real difference (using Amplifi Alien). The extenders have worked out great.

I have heard recommendations against a mesh network for audio, as if the connection switches from one node to another, there could be dropouts. I have no experience with that myself, but it seems plausible. So maybe a WiFi extender would be better. Best, of course, is Ethernet directly to the streamer if possible. That avoids all vagaries of WiFi.

Like @designsfx , I’ve found find the router has a big influence, and some have worked much better than others. Currently, I’m using an ASUS RT-AX86U, not the most expensive, but an outstanding router in reliability, stability, and signal strength. It’s in the basement, and we get good coverage even on the 2nd floor.

Using the RT-AX86U, I’ve run my Auralic Aries G1 on WiFi for a few days, and the connection was rock-solid and not distinguishable from Ethernet. Your setup and results may vary.

I'm using a TP Link  Ethernet over AC adapter .   From that I have a TP Link 10 port switch .   One SFP port goes to a TP Link MC220 fiber optic converter.  This is connected to my Aurender N200 via a short ethernet cable.   I do the same thing out of the switch's SFP 2 port to my Vault 2i.    Works perfectly 

I have heard recommendations against a mesh network for audio, as if the connection switches from one node to another, there could be dropouts.

I’ve got a mesh setup and the connections are stable, i.e. no roaming unless the signal drops below a certain threshold.

This PC Mag article explains the differences - Wi-Fi Range Extender vs. Mesh Network: What’s the Difference?