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)

ozzy

128x128ozzy

The eno is discontinued so it’ll be very interesting to hear how the eno2 compares, which I gather arrives in a couple of weeks. 

@audphile1 I feel that's what I am hearing now I've contrasted the two units; the ENO is downplaying dynamics compared to the SL. Honestly, I enjoyed my system with the ENO, and was engaged by it, but the SL, albeit on a short initial comparison, is giving me more

I'll be swapping out the Network Acoustics streaming cable over the weekend as well, for the DH Labs Ethernet cable between switch and SL to see if there's any difference there. 

@teknorob23 ah ok, thanks for this. I knew the ENO was no longer available but didn't know there was a new version in the pipeline. Don't think I'll be trying it though; the ENO was around £700+, £900+ with the NA streaming cable; no doubt the ENO 2 will be similarly priced.

After the SL, my plan is for the Auva 70's for my speakers, and more Auva EQ's for my components (have the EQ's under my DAC to good effect)

jimboman.

I did think my internet connection and sound quality was fine. But once I added the SmoothLan the soundstage deepened quite a lot. So, there is still something (noise?) that can be improved.

ozzy

painter24,

I also thought that the bass was reduced somewhat initially. But after using it now for a quite a while I don't. I think it is because the soundstage and dynamics hit you so much that that is what you first notice.

BTW, I gulp..., will be getting a second SmoothLan to try them in tandem. I hope it is not over-kill, but we shall see...uhm, hear.

ozzy