[iFi audio]

Dude, just wait till you try FMCs and the 100% galvanic isolation they bring (in combination with LAN iSilencers of course). Then in due course try - as I did last night - different/better SFP modules and find they sound quite different which messes with one's head and is entry to a hazy netherworld of SFP rolling. The ethernet chain audio optimisation rabbit hole goes deeper than you can imagine. Red pill /blue pill...

Still think we need to be in that space, just saying....

Cheers!!

 

[iFi audio]

Credit to the networking enthusiasts, I didn't expect going into this that WIFI vs LAN would sound so objectively different, but here I am. Sadly it still puts me in a situation where while clarity improves, bass (and soundstage) is lost and I can't blame the iSilencer for that - it improves things - it just comes down to the router.

Since my goal was to use a 5v router to receive wifi, I dont even know what my other options would be. The TP-Link was the best of the 3 routers I tested and I'm not keen on buying a second LPS and a more expensive router just to get back where I started.

(assuming I decide to stick with internal wifi in the end. still deciding)

I know you said you wouldn't but perhaps a "less expensive" FMC would benefit you...

Cheers!!

 

[Lvivske]

I know you said you wouldn't but perhaps a "less expensive" FMC would benefit you...

Cheers!!

WiFi. It's a WiFi setup!

I'm just not sure FMC is going to do here big picture, I'm not trying to avoid theoretical pollution on a long network run, this is contained to a small rack and the iSilencer was my last line of defense doing the isolation.

So far I'd say the router model has made the most significant impact on things between router/switch/silencer, so debating on whether to blame the current router or just the ZS's LAN section as a whole. I pulled out the old Linksys router (with iPower) I first tried and didnt like (direct) and threw it in the chain with the switch & silencer and was pretty impressed this time so maybe gonna do a router shootout at this point and see if there's a combo with the Silencer I'm diggin', while trying out a 5-to-12v USB step-up converter out of the LPS to save some space

 

[iFi audio]

WiFi. It's a WiFi setup!

I'm just not sure FMC is going to do here big picture, I'm not trying to avoid theoretical pollution on a long network run, this is contained to a small rack and the iSilencer was my last line of defense doing the isolation.

So far I'd say the router model has made the most significant impact on things between router/switch/silencer, so debating on whether to blame the current router or just the ZS's LAN section as a whole. I pulled out the old Linksys router (with iPower) I first tried and didnt like (direct) and threw it in the chain with the switch & silencer and was pretty impressed this time so maybe gonna do a router shootout at this point and see if there's a combo with the Silencer I'm diggin', while trying out a 5-to-12v USB step-up converter out of the LPS to save some space

I understand completely, was just trying to ummm ya know drop some knowledge without being specific, Understand?

I hear a difference now since I got my NEO stream with the Optibox which is that type of isolation, but I see what you are doing and this thread appreciates your contributions!

Cheers!!

 

[Lvivske]

Even going to a full size router, I'm gonna need a new dedicated rack....I've knocked the ZS onto the floor twice so far futzing with cables

 

[SHXMD]

Still waiting for D-Link switch-today, tomorrow, or whenever?

Tidal Connect-sending third round of data.

I know I am being obstinate to avoid Roon, M-Connect and J-play (all have pros and cons) but, as above trying to minimize, isolate and avoid direct computer involvement.

Listening to Hi-Res Tidal is nice but I wonder if it is the true music anymore?

Also, Hi-Res Qobuz does not sound the same-less bright and relaxed. Optical isolation on this arm.

More later…

 

[Lvivske]

OOOOOKAY, Linksys/iPower into the switch-silencer kicks ass, old EQ profile again, everything sweet. (maybe too punchy)

Ordered a WiFi 6 / Wireless AX tri-core TP-Link off Amazon warehouse deals, gonna see tomorrow if it's any better than the 2016 Linksys, both with the LPS if that works out.

 

[SHXMD]

Incredible…my switch is delayed (lost again?) and you will have reviewed 2 different nodes with 2 or 3 devices.

Forwarded next set of data to Tidal.

I bet they dump the older switch on me!

To be continued…

 

[Lvivske]

Incredible…my switch is delayed (lost again?) and you will have reviewed 2 different nodes with 2 or 3 devices.

Forwarded next set of data to Tidal.

I bet they dump the older switch on me!

To be continued…

itll be 4 routers, 2 switches, and the silencer will have to trim these notes down significantly

 

[SHXMD]

Well mine-yours contain information.

 

[Lvivske]

you haven't seen these drunken ramblings I call 'notes'

Tried out the USB voltage step up for the 12v router off the 5v Topping P50, works like a charm so far

bad: the TP-Link router doesn't support range extender / bridge mode to act as a wifi receiver (weird), and it didnt include a power adapter, sending it back

edit: amazon really screwed me today, the USB step up converter was actually just a standard 5v....LPS is outputting 6v on my meter (while I was at it, the iPower 15v was outputting like 17v)

 

[SHXMD]

Glad I did not.

Good.

Silly.

Interesting.

Notified my Tidal Connect ticket for assistance has been elevated to the “Super Nerd” level. (Great!)

Switch wandering around countryside somewhere…

To be continued…

 

[Lvivske]

voltage cable coming saturday, I think it's got a variable control so i should be able to confirm it's putting out a proper 12 volts. If not, I guess the ~17v iPower into the 12v router will be the option for now

No idea what other routers would be worth auditioning, need wireless bridge mode and my current one is already Wireless-AC so not like speed is an issue

 

[iFi audio]

voltage cable coming saturday, I think it's got a variable control so i should be able to confirm it's putting out a proper 12 volts. If not, I guess the ~17v iPower into the 12v router will be the option for now

No idea what other routers would be worth auditioning, need wireless bridge mode and my current one is already Wireless-AC so not like speed is an issue

I continue to be fascinated by this venture, and I do not feel it's off-topic as you are mentioning that an iSilencer is in use for most of these tests.

Continued good luck in your search, until we can offer a one-box solution solution that may trump all this.

Cheers!!

 

[SHXMD]

Switch failed to show on last day-refund tomorrow but really want the bloody switch.

Tidal Connect intermittently and inconsistently dropping streams (1-3 per hour). (No word from Tidal-high command)

While typing this phone froze. Great!

Will follow but not post unless I have something positive to add.

Best,

S