The proof is in the pudding, and I haven’t experienced DACs streamer (roon endpoint). I’d say, try the JCAT XE netcard with your DACs streamer first and hopefully you’ll like the improved SQ. Once and if you’re ready to go build the PC, consider adding the USB card. My two cents.
If fund is available, it's better to go JCAT XE network card and USB card at once. Otherwise, adding one card at a time will bring improvements in some areas while revealing weaknesses else where in the setup.
OS SSD can be small enough so high quality is attainable. 32gb - 64GB SLC type (brand names Apacer, Swissbit, Intel).
Music SSD capacity ranges from 512KB to 2TB or 4TB. Without knowing better, I'd go with Samsung 860 Pro Series.
For much better SQ, I'd power both with external linear power...
Progress report:
1/ upgraded control point from Samsung Tab A to Galaxy S6: didn't help.
2/ upgraded audio dedicated TPLink AC1750 to same brand Wifi 6 AX1800: no help.
3/ increase internet speed from 200Mbps max to 600Mbps does help though not completely. Streaming up to 192/24 on 2.4GHz...
Thanks guys for your inputs. In an effort to utilize 2.4GHz band not only for local files playback (which sounds really good) but also for Qobuz streaming, I moved the ethernet connection between audio Wifi AP and audio switch to a higher priority. Also, I'm giving each band its unique name...
Thanks for a great topic. Having read your post, I've configured my network accordingly (dedicated 2.4GHz, channel, low transmit power) and enjoyed better sounding local files playback anything up to DSD 256 and 192/24 format.
Here's the issue: whenever I go streaming on Qobuz, nothing...
My two cent input:
I've been happily using JPLAY as Asio driver on dualPC (AudioPC + controlPC) with a number of players: Foorbar2000, Bug Head, MinimServer, and JPLAY Femto currently. The more recent player, the better sounding IMHO. An Android tablet as control poin completes the headless...
If I put my ears where my mouth is, really listen to different routers, switches, and other network devices and said, "Hey you guys, I've tried but didn't hear a difference. Many of you have heard differences, so what am I missing here?", then I'd call that a valid question coming from another...
Just learned that the network isolator would be most effective between Wifi and whatever upstream, so I've move the GISO to be located between audio switch and wifi AP. Ideally, a JCAT NET isolator and or a GIGA Foil would be added.
I could find the Finisar fiber optic transceivers but am unable to locate the Corning Clear Blue cable. Can you be a bit more specific, as for parr number etc.? I've checked the website but couldn't find what seems the right cable.
There's nothing wrong with Sonore fiber cables. They're multi mode fiber which inherently has higher attenuation and limited bandwidth. I'd enjoy using it for a while until I'd be ready to "upgrade" to single mode transceivers and fiber cables whose attenuation is minimum and virtually...
OM is great, single mode transceivers and fiber cables sound better than multimode counterparts. Longer fiber length (5 meter minimum) is preferable over short cable (1 meter), reportedly.
I think he connects the Arris SB8200 output to the Edge router. Port A on the router is then connected to etherRegen. Port B also on the router is connected via fiber to Orbi router which provides gateway to the home devices.
Unless I'm wrong and he's using two Edge routers, which sounds...
Everyone needs Wifi. What I meant was, separate wifi functionality from router, instead use a Wifi Access Point, which is connected to the high quality switch, for the task. You may need more than one audio grade switch. But better SQ will be had that way.
Great advice #11 and #14. Can't agree more.
If you go oM route, the device can be further improved in SQ with some cost effective mods. I'd try a pair first.
Changing OS can wait. Audio grade switch is a good idea, and so is a non wifi router.
Not only high quality Ethernet cable at the...
One of my 2 PCs, the audioPC or endpoint, has passive heat cooling system independent of the lid being closed or open. I'm obsessed with directly connecting JCAT card to the PCIe port, so I keep the case open, let the card plugged in partially protruding from the case top. Doesn't look picture...