Sonore OpticalRendu


When I decided to go to digital streaming, I was looking for the best turnkey system for my budget.  When I came across The Small Green Computer Company and Alex, I was intrigued.  And then I saw the optical setup with the Sonore Rendu offered in a bundle with The Small Green Computer Company.  That sealed the deal for me and I have not looked back.  Having used it for over a year now the quality of the digital source in my system is very close to the analog side.  And Alex could not have been more helpful when I did have questions.

 

If you are looking into starting the digital journey, I highly recommend looking at The Small Green Computer Company offerings.

mokes2024
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The setup that I have uses a SGC as a Roon core, which then connects through my home network via Ethernet. The SGC can also be set up in a few other modes that the Rendu players accept. I then have a network switch with an SFP module that converts the signal to optical and a magenta patch cable to feed into a Signature Rendu, with USB going out to the DAC. This same setup would work with an OpticalRendu as it accepts the same fiber optic input.

In a separate setup, I have another network switch with an SFP module which is connected to an optical converter. The Ethernet gets converted to optical in the switch, then back to Ethernet in the converter, which then feeds the ultraRendu, with USB going out to the DAC.

The advantage of Optical vs ultra is that there are fewer boxes and less setup required. The OpticalRendu also has some other internal improvements, and I expect the new OpticalRendu to have even more.

Just as a note, when ordering parts like the SFP modules, you really need to pay attention to specs: frequency, throughput, compatibility with your switch. They aren't all the same and if you get the wrong module, it won't work. I ended up getting a Cisco SFP from FS.com since I was using Cisco switches, and their tech support e-mailed me to confirm compatibility before they sent it out. 

I have the top end power supply and cable from Sonore for the OpticalRendu. Not worth it compared to the standard power supply they sell. My system is uber revealing, especially with my RAAL SR1a phones and I could not tell a difference. I had 3 opticalRendus to compare with.

BTW - I see a few OpticalRendu's up for sale. I just re-bought just the oR ROON ONLY version for $700. Great time to pick up a used oR.

I bought the i9 Optical  in order to bypass the router/switch and input to the renderer on my Bricasti dac via a FMC.   Has anyone compared the Optical Module Deluxe to other 'non-deluxe' FMCs?

I have the OpticalRendu Lite, just in, compared to the WiiM Pro it has better soundstage and separation, but surprisingly it isn't a night and day difference.  I'm using Roon and it also cuts of the first second of songs when playback starts.  Small Green Computer's communication has been great.  Jury's still out on whether I'll go a different direction with a streamer.