2. cables
  3. 184533-159739

Sometimes more is not better -or- Ethernet Overkill

I recently replaced my 30' Cat 6 cable with a pair of TP Link fiber converters, ended with a Cat 8 cable to my streamer. This was a good upgrade for sure, however I started to notice haze and grain in vocals after I installed a new digital cable between my streamer and DAC. The digital cable was an improvement in resolution, which probably made the problem more obvious, but not yet critical. I recently replaced the Cat 6 links between router/modem and router/FMC with a pair of Cat 8 cables. Everything took another slight step down.

I then replaced all three of the Cat 8 links with the original Cat 6, and my system is back to exceptional clarity.

Some relevant details on cabling, all the Cat 6 is tested Blue Jeans cable. The Cat 8 from the FMC to the streamer was a Linkup (https://www.amazon.com/LINKUP-Ethernet-Screened-2000Mhz-Structure/dp/B07VVFB8VX?th=1), the other two Cat 8's used on the router end were low cost (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PL1P53C?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details).

Yes, it could be the quality of the cable, though the LinkUp cable is no slouch. However, I also think that it could have to do with the extra shielding on Cat 8, and the connection that shield makes between the devices. Could this be acting as a channel for noise into the router and FMC's?

Anyway, thought it worth sharing. Try swapping out those Cat 8's for some quality Cat 6 and see if you hear a difference.

 

zlone
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,882 posts
 

More than one person has told me Cat8 can cause noise and ground issues. I had issues with my DAC and Streamer.  Not always locking onto the signal with hi rez sources     Removed Cat8 , put 5e in and no problems 

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,538 posts
 

No issues whatsoever with LinkUp Cat 8 cable in my system…running a 50FT from Xfinity Gigabit speed router to an audiophile switch. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,123 posts
 

FWIW, I’ve tried FMC and didn’t care for the thinner “glassy” sonic signature that was the result of introducing the converters. Plus all additional clutter with FMCs and their power supplies added to my decision to send it back.
As to the CAT8 vs CAT6, I’ve tried this CAT8 from Amazon and it sounds just fine - no glare or graininess.

And I do agree, less is more has been my experience when it comes to ethernet. I use Network Acoustics Eno Streaming System (passive filter and ethernet cable) and it is excellent. 

recklesskelly
330 posts
 

CAT 8  is backwards compatible. In my system fiber is the bee's knees. Just goes to show YMMV and all things are not equal. I have fiber and CAT 8 from the On Q box through our entire home. Best streaming ever, now I also have a awesome digital system also. No fancy switches other than fiber. 

rbstehno
1,454 posts
 

Get good cables, blue jeans are on the lower end of cables. Better cables will make a difference and depending on your system, the difference can be good or bad.

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