2. digital
  3. 190276-41

Stack Audio-SmoothLAN Network Filter- WOW!

I just received this item that I purchased from Stack Audio after being impressed with the AUVA 100 Speaker footers.

For any of the Audio Streamers out there, my initial comment as to this item: The SmoothLAN Network Filter is WOW!

From first plug in, the soundstage deepened and widened immensely. How the heck this occurs is nothing short of amazing. I have tried many of the major brand ethernet filters, and some of them, maybe, did something. But not enough to keep them. I either sent them back or sold them. I did however keep an iFi Silencer unit.

My digital streaming consists of an EtherRegen sending out the signal via Fiber to my Lumin X1. I have the Stack Audio device going into the EtherRegen from the Modem.

And, since I have my Apple TV coming out of the EtherRegen it will be interesting to see if the Video improves.

Check out the review in EAR.

Stack Audio Smooth-LAN For Clean Streaming | The Ear (the-ear.net)

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jimboman
91 posts
 

Hi @maxwave 

Thanks for your post.  In my setup, the Cisco switch has built-in fibre output, and the Lumin U2 has built-in fibre input, so I don't think I would add 2 convertors to the chain in order to use the SmoothLAN.

That said, today I upgraded from coax to fibre internet, and it seems that SQ on my system has improved.  Feels like there's more dynamic range, more body to the sound, and more musicality.

So, I'm really enjoying the upgrade bonus!

(SYSTEM:  Lumin U2 (via WireWorld Platinum Starlight 8 USB) to Benchmark DAC 3 HGC, to Benchmark HPA4 preamp (via Cardas Golden Ref XLR), to Benchmark AHB2 amplifier (via Neotech XLR), to ATC SCM40 passive towers (via Kimber Cable 8 bi-wire cables).

Power for amp is 20A dedicated line, with Cardas outlet, and Cardas Clear Beyond power cord.  I use and AQ Tornado HC cord to PS Audio Duet to power the source/preamp/streamer.

Best, JAMES.

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jimboman
91 posts
 

Hi @maxwave 

Actually, it may be me who has my terms mixed up...I think you're correct in that there is an SFP in both the Cisco switch, and the Lumin U2.  Both devices have the port that 'houses' the SFP.  Does that make sense?

At any rate, I run a 30' length of dual optical cable to get the internet into the streamer.  Gives the system galvanic isolation.  And it's sounding pretty sweet.   :-)

Best, JAMES.

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jimboman
91 posts
 

@maxwave 

My apologies (again!), I think I misspoke...by 'optical' cable, I mean 'fibre optic' cable.  It is a standard dual fibre optic cable that runs from the Cisco to the Lumin U2 (via SFP modules).  Does that make more sense?

And, yes, it is a 30' run from the switch (in another room) to the streamer.  Fibre optic cable can be run in long lengths with no signal loss.  And, of course, they are not sensitive to electronic/magnetic fields.

Best, JAMES.

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