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Network/Ethernet Improvements Suggestions

Hi guys,

I've been thinking about upgrading my streamer (Innuos Zen Mini mkiii w/Innuos PSU), but was thinking I could, maybe should look at/take care of the network side of things first.

At the moment, my streamer is fed as follows;

  • ISP Modem -> TP Link Archer Router
  • Router -> Cat 6 shielded ethernet from living room into listening room
  • Cat 6 -> TP Link media converters, Ethernet -> Optical -> Ethernet (2nd converter powered by an ifi Power 2 plug)
  • DH Labs Ethernet Cable to regular consumer network switch w/ifi Power 2 plug (suggested by the chap at Network Acoustics whose name escapes me)
  • Network switch to Network Acoustics Eno, fed by Network Acoustics ethernet cable
  • Network Acoustics Eno to Innuos Zen Mini mkiii

My first instinct is to swap out the regular consumer switch for something like the LHY-SW8 switch, but any suggestions to the contrary, or additional measures would be welcome.Β 

Thanks guys πŸ‘

128x128painter24
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,286 posts
 

I do not like the fiber converters - in my system the sound becomes artificial and constricted. I have tried it with 3 streamers with exactly the same outcome. Power supply upgrades for these gizmos is a lipstick on a pig.

Do your research and go for the best streamer you can afford, used or new. Then you can get rid of the clutter and just use Eno.

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,071 posts
 

+1,Β @audphile1Β 

Solid advice, go for best streamer you can afford and reduce the clutter preceding ENO. Use a better LAN cable like LinkUp CAT 8 from Amazon between your router and ENO. Β 

painter24's avatar
painter24 OP
213 posts
 

Thanks for all the advice guys, much appreciated πŸ‘

Streamer it is, I'm convinced after removing the media converters

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,286 posts
 

πŸ‘

romanesq
86 posts
 

To close the loop, now cascading two Cisco 2960 boxes with SFP fiber in between. A short one foot ethernet to streamer. New ballgame, far superior to fiber on with FMCs.Β 

Takes a high end system it to an entirely new level. It’s really astonishing.

Anyone hearing my system prior and now would have no idea how.

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