Best audiophile switch

[Sondiago]

Hi Todd!

If you are able to recall, would you please compare for us your sonic impressions of the Ansuz versus the Reiki?

Was there any sense in which one was "warmer" more "full-bodied" or more "organic" than the other?

Which model of Ansuz Ethernet switch did you audition?

I've had both Ansuz D2 Powerswitch and Reiki on demo. I went with D2. Didn't think Reiki was anything special compared to say EE8. It's a standard switch in a CNC housing.

 

[gionaz]

I went with D2

it's the best of the bunch, apart from the D-TC Supreme but it costs double...

 

[agisthos]

I just got the Matrix SS-1 Pro switch. Its a huge upgrade over the LHY SW-6 which surprised me, as at this point most upgrades are incremental. The jump was bigger than going from a stock Netgear switch to the SW-6.

Matrix has done a fully custom board design, 2 ports clocked slower at 100mps for sound quality, 2 SFP ports, the ability to switch all rear LED's off, clock synthesizer, and an internal LPS.

Only one review so far at Soundnews
https://soundnews.net/reviews/acces...o-ethernet-switches-review-can-bits-do-beats/

The reviewer had the Melco, LHY SW-10, and the Ansuz D3. He thinks its better than the SW-10 and approaches the Ansuz D3 but does not top it.
Considering the $1700 cost I am very happy.

 

[Sondiago]

I just got the Matrix SS-1 Pro switch. Its a huge upgrade over the LHY SW-6 which surprised me, as at this point most upgrades are incremental. The jump was bigger than going from a stock Netgear switch to the SW-6.

Matrix has done a fully custom board design, 2 ports clocked slower at 100mps for sound quality, 2 SFP ports, the ability to switch all rear LED's off, clock synthesizer, and an internal LPS.

Only one review so far at Soundnews
https://soundnews.net/reviews/acces...o-ethernet-switches-review-can-bits-do-beats/

The reviewer had the Melco, LHY SW-10, and the Ansuz D3. He thinks its better than the SW-10 and approaches the Ansuz D3 but does not top it.
Considering the $1700 cost I am very happy.

Looks great and would have been an option if I didn't have D2. I wonder how much better D3 is....Maybe A3 is even better than D2..

 

[gionaz]

Looks great and would have been an option if I didn't have D2. I wonder how much better D3 is....Maybe A3 is even better than D2..

D2 is better than the others, I've tried them all...

 

[Di-fi]

D2 is better than the others, I've tried them all...

it's the best of the bunch, apart from the D-TC Supreme but it costs double...

Thanks for sharing your opinion! It would be really helpful for everyone here if you could elaborate a bit more on your experience or maybe you did somewhere else?

For instance, what specific improvements did you notice with the switch? How does it compare to others you’ve tried, and in what context (e.g., system setup, music genres)? Sharing these details can make your input even more valuable to the community.

 

[Di-fi]

Last week I built an isolation platform for this network switch. I made an 8"x12" platform with Qty (3) 11 lb/in compression springs. It didn't cost me much but time. I used some leftover wood from another project. This platform mechanically isolates the network switch from vibrations that come up from the floor.

I am very aware that for our best switch, we also need to consider its placement. The surface or component it sits on plays a big role in its optimal functioning, as well as its location within the home network. What’s upstream and downstream from the switch matters too—each aspect contributes to its overall performance.

Just my two cents on isolation platforms: In audio, they are used to prevent external vibrations from reaching a device or to redirect vibrations generated by the device itself. Platforms and footers can also be used to fine-tune the sound (including for switches), but I’ll leave that discussion for another time.

For a switch, focusing on preventing incoming vibrations—if that's the issue—is key. Non-damped compression springs, however, are unlikely to be as effective in this case. They can act as mechanical resonators, absorbing energy but potentially allowing vibrations to persist or even amplify. Without damping, the springs might cause the switch to oscillate or bounce.

To get audible results, you might want to explore damping materials that help absorb and dissipate energy more effectively, or consider changing your isolation strategy to better stop vibrations from reaching the switch. Also, it would be helpful to understand what kind of vibrations you're trying to eliminate. Are they from living next to a highway, your speakers, wood floors, or a wood beam construction?

 

[TRHH]

All Ethernet enabled equipment has to include magnetics as the Ethernet specification for 10/100/1000BASE-T networks requires a certain level of galvanic isolation from the cable.

I am looking for an unmanaged 8-port or more switch with high isolation ethernet magnetic transformers. Has to be a DC version - not AC version.

Thanks for any suggestions

Torben

 

[TonyW]

I am very aware that for our best switch, we also need to consider its placement. The surface or component it sits on plays a big role in its optimal functioning, as well as its location within the home network. What’s upstream and downstream from the switch matters too—each aspect contributes to its overall performance.

Just my two cents on isolation platforms: In audio, they are used to prevent external vibrations from reaching a device or to redirect vibrations generated by the device itself. Platforms and footers can also be used to fine-tune the sound (including for switches), but I’ll leave that discussion for another time.

For a switch, focusing on preventing incoming vibrations—if that's the issue—is key. Non-damped compression springs, however, are unlikely to be as effective in this case. They can act as mechanical resonators, absorbing energy but potentially allowing vibrations to persist or even amplify. Without damping, the springs might cause the switch to oscillate or bounce.

To get audible results, you might want to explore damping materials that help absorb and dissipate energy more effectively, or consider changing your isolation strategy to better stop vibrations from reaching the switch. Also, it would be helpful to understand what kind of vibrations you're trying to eliminate. Are they from living next to a highway, your speakers, wood floors, or a wood beam construction?

Springs isolate, dampening can color the sound due to non-linearities such as variation in the effectiveness of damping vs frequency. See my posts in the vibration section with videos.

I perturbate the component on a spring isolated base and the oscillations die out in about 3 cycles. But yes, even with isolation, the material of the base, ie type of wood or composite used and the feet of the component still affects the sound as well. The thing I find about isolation with springs and getting the spring/mass system down to 3 Hz, is an immediate difference in sound and soundstage. It brings more clarity and improves timing. Cones and rubber feet on the component- preamp, amp, DAC, etc fine tune the sound. There is still a dynamic between the base and the audio component. In the case of this network switch, nothing changed when I isolated it from the shelf it is on.

I bought a Wellfloat platform to try in comparison to my DIY isolation platforms. Putting my preamp on the Wellfloat platform changed the sound but made the bass less desireable. The Wellfloat did not completely isolate the preamp from the shelf. But when I put my 86 lb DAC on the Wellfloat platform I liked the sound much better. My DAC/Wellfloat combo isolates down to 15 Hz. The Wellfloat has a rated load capacity of something over 200 lbs, as I recall. So the 86 lb DAC is a better fit for the Wellfloat vs my 45 lb preamp in my mind. The Wellfloat platform would also be a great choice for a heavy amp.

Isolation requires tuning for each specific piece of equipment. It’s like tuning a piano. It requires some knowledge and skill or else things can get worse, much worse instead of better. Most isolation gear has to be designed/made for a wide range of applications. So their effectiveness varies with application, size and weight of the component it is being applied to. And so the outcome can have a wide variation as well. It’s like a car, the ride feels much different when driving alone vs driving when the car is loaded with people and luggage to the max.

 

[Republicoftexas69]

Springs isolate, dampening can color the sound due to non-linearities such as variation in the effectiveness of damping vs frequency. See my posts in the vibration section with videos.

I perturbate the component on a spring isolated base and the oscillations die out in about 3 cycles. But yes, even with isolation, the material of the base, ie type of wood or composite used and the feet of the component still affects the sound as well. The thing I find about isolation with springs and getting the spring/mass system down to 3 Hz, is an immediate difference in sound and soundstage. It brings more clarity and improves timing. Cones and rubber feet on the component- preamp, amp, DAC, etc fine tune the sound. There is still a dynamic between the base and the audio component. In the case of this network switch, nothing changed when I isolated it from the shelf it is on.

I bought a Wellfloat platform to try in comparison to my DIY isolation platforms. Putting my preamp on the Wellfloat platform changed the sound but made the bass less desireable. The Wellfloat did not completely isolate the preamp from the shelf. But when I put my 86 lb DAC on the Wellfloat platform I liked the sound much better. My DAC/Wellfloat combo isolates down to 15 Hz. The Wellfloat has a rated load capacity of something over 200 lbs, as I recall. So the 86 lb DAC is a better fit for the Wellfloat vs my 45 lb preamp in my mind. The Wellfloat platform would also be a great choice for a heavy amp.

Isolation requires tuning for each specific piece of equipment. It’s like tuning a piano. It requires some knowledge and skill or else things can get worse, much worse instead of better. Most isolation gear has to be designed/made for a wide range of applications. So their effectiveness varies with application, size and weight of the component it is being applied to. And so the outcome can have a wide variation as well. It’s like a car, the ride feels much different when driving alone vs driving when the car is loaded with people and luggage to the max.

Thank you for this insightful post.

 

[Synaxis]

The Wellfloat has a rated load capacity of something over 200 lbs, as I recall. So the 86 lb DAC is a better fit for the Wellfloat vs my 45 lb preamp in my mind. The Wellfloat platform would also be a great choice for a heavy amp.

Hi Tony - you hit on an important point - matching the rating to the gear.

I have over 12 different isolation devices either here now or that I have tried. Matching the weight rating is key.

As an example I have the half-size Well-float's for my switch. I purposely ordered the ones that only support 40lbs to support my 20 lb switch vs, the ones that could support 300 lbs.

I have found - as you - matching the weight rating is important. And that's why I believe companies such as IsoAcoustics and Stack Audio offer different versions of the same products in different weight ratings.

 

[Pearlsmx]

Hi Tony - you hit on an important point - matching the rating to the gear.

I have over 12 different isolation devices either here now or that I have tried. Matching the weight rating is key.

As an example I have the half-size Well-float's for my switch. I purposely ordered the ones that only support 40lbs to support my 20 lb switch vs, the ones that could support 300 lbs.

I have found - as you - matching the weight rating is important. And that's why I believe companies such as IsoAcoustics and Stack Audio offer different versions of the same products in different weight ratings.

That said, what isolation device have you found to work best for a 5 lb switch and router?

 

[Di-fi]

Springs isolate, dampening can color the sound due to non-linearities such as variation in the effectiveness of damping vs frequency. See my posts in the vibration section with videos.

I perturbate the component on a spring isolated base and the oscillations die out in about 3 cycles. But yes, even with isolation, the material of the base, ie type of wood or composite used and the feet of the component still affects the sound as well. The thing I find about isolation with springs and getting the spring/mass system down to 3 Hz, is an immediate difference in sound and soundstage. It brings more clarity and improves timing. Cones and rubber feet on the component- preamp, amp, DAC, etc fine tune the sound. There is still a dynamic between the base and the audio component. In the case of this network switch, nothing changed when I isolated it from the shelf it is on.

I bought a Wellfloat platform to try in comparison to my DIY isolation platforms. Putting my preamp on the Wellfloat platform changed the sound but made the bass less desireable. The Wellfloat did not completely isolate the preamp from the shelf. But when I put my 86 lb DAC on the Wellfloat platform I liked the sound much better. My DAC/Wellfloat combo isolates down to 15 Hz. The Wellfloat has a rated load capacity of something over 200 lbs, as I recall. So the 86 lb DAC is a better fit for the Wellfloat vs my 45 lb preamp in my mind. The Wellfloat platform would also be a great choice for a heavy amp.

Isolation requires tuning for each specific piece of equipment. It’s like tuning a piano. It requires some knowledge and skill or else things can get worse, much worse instead of better. Most isolation gear has to be designed/made for a wide range of applications. So their effectiveness varies with application, size and weight of the component it is being applied to. And so the outcome can have a wide variation as well. It’s like a car, the ride feels much different when driving alone vs driving when the car is loaded with people and luggage to the max.

Hi,

I assumed, of course, that your goal was to improve the performance of the SR switch, and you chose isolation as your approach. Thanks for sharing your insights and testing results—I really appreciate the level of detail in how different platforms interact with various components.

Your findings on vibration isolation not affecting the network switch are particularly interesting, though I can imagine that different switches may react (or not) differently to isolation. Your experience perhaps supports the idea that this particular SR switch or any switch’s impact on sound quality comes more from electrical noise (EMI/RFI, power supply quality, or grounding issues) rather than mechanical vibrations. I would say if the switch has a high-quality OCXO or other clock, then shielding from EMI and ensuring clean power will likely have a bigger impact than vibration damping alone.

I’ve noticed that a stable platform—and I also use an SR Tranquility Base—along with different network cables, good power supply, and optimized AC/DC cords can make an audible difference for the ER switch. So I guess I’m trying to find some golden rules for what makes the best audiophile switch setup, or at least identify clear "no-go" placements if others share similar experiences regarding switch isolation.

 

[Synaxis]

That said, what isolation device have you found to work best for a 5 lb switch and router?

The best value goes to the Stack Audio feet.

The absolute best performance is the Well-float half size vibration board with a set of Graphite Audio IC-35 between the switch and the board.

 

[TonyW]

Hi,

I assumed, of course, that your goal was to improve the performance of the SR switch, and you chose isolation as your approach. Thanks for sharing your insights and testing results—I really appreciate the level of detail in how different platforms interact with various components.

Your findings on vibration isolation not affecting the network switch are particularly interesting, though I can imagine that different switches may react (or not) differently to isolation. Your experience perhaps supports the idea that this particular SR switch or any switch’s impact on sound quality comes more from electrical noise (EMI/RFI, power supply quality, or grounding issues) rather than mechanical vibrations. I would say if the switch has a high-quality OCXO or other clock, then shielding from EMI and ensuring clean power will likely have a bigger impact than vibration damping alone.

I’ve noticed that a stable platform—and I also use an SR Tranquility Base—along with different network cables, good power supply, and optimized AC/DC cords can make an audible difference for the ER switch. So I guess I’m trying to find some golden rules for what makes the best audiophile switch setup, or at least identify clear "no-go" placements if others share similar experiences regarding switch isolation.

The SR Ethernet Switch UEF has a carbon fiber top. The designer may have already built in robustness to vibrations. That’s my theory. I can’t look inside, it’s not my switch. I have it on loan. I’m waiting on the new version to be released which could be any day now.

And that leads me to follow this rabbit trail…. So if I just have this switch on loan and found it to improve the sound of streaming digital then how can that be confirmation bias? Believe you me, I not so well off that I’m willing to spend almost $3k on a network switch just so I can say, “Hey! Look at me. I have an expensive network switch.” In fact, in my circle of friends and family I would only get derision and contempt if they had any idea what I have invested in this amazing sounding system.

Just a few years ago I too was shaking my head at high priced digital gear, especially add ons like music servers and ethernet switches. But just like how the frog will jump out of a pot of hot water, he will stay in the pot as the cool water is heated to boiling- I walked into this digital world one step at a time. Soon I saw how a couple of hundred dollars in Fiber optics helped the sound and then the next logical step was an $800 ethernet switch. And then it was $50 silver plated ethernet cables followed by hundreds of dollars in ethernet cables. And now, here I am jumping at the chance to spend $3k on an Ethernet switch- with enthusiasm!

If I could go back to the sound of my $800 ethernet switch, I would; but that genie is out of the bottle.

 

[TonyW]

That said, what isolation device have you found to work best for a 5 lb switch and router?

You might need to put some weight on top of the switch just to get within the working range of any type of footers. As a rule, extra mass doesn’t hurt- unless you drop it on your foot.

 

[jasond]

There is a new and very interesting review of Greek Audio on the Network Acoustics Tempus, awarding it as their new reference. Also with some insights on comparing to Telegartner filter and switch as well as mentioning vibration control.

 

[Di-fi]

There is a new and very interesting review of Greek Audio on the Network Acoustics Tempus, awarding it as their new reference. Also with some insights on comparing to Telegartner filter and switch as well as mentioning vibration control.

From this review, it seems like he compared over a dozen standard switches costing up to $200 against a three-digit-priced Telegärtner. Then, he claims that the NA Tempus with the NA LPS is 'cheap' because it costs half as much as the Telegärtner (is NA at around $4450+taxes?).
Naturally, it outperforms the batch of standard switches. Unless he has other videos where he compares audio-focused switches—including good LPS units—within a reasonable and at least partly similar price range (let’s say starting from $750?-$1000 and up), this ”comparison” doesn't make much sense to me.

 

[luca.pelliccioli]

You should watch his old video series about cheap switches to better understand what @Synaxis really meant.
It makes sense to me. This last video is more like a Tempus vs Telegartner comparison, where the conclusion is that going all Network Acoustics (Muon Pro + Tempus) negates also the benefits brought before by the cheap switches upstream.

 

[Synaxis]

From this review, it seems like he compared over a dozen standard switches costing up to $200 against a three-digit-priced Telegärtner. Then, he claims that the NA Tempus with the NA LPS is 'cheap' because it costs half as much as the Telegärtner (is it at around $4450?).
Naturally, it outperforms the batch of standard switches. Unless he has other videos where he compares audio-focused switches—including good LPS units—within a reasonable and at least partly similar price range (let’s say starting from $750?-$1000 and up), this ”comparison” doesn't make much sense to me.

Hi - not the case.

I've had numerous switches between $800 and $2500 as well. That is the difference between the 16 cheap switches I talk about and the total of switches I then quoted in the video I've owned or had here of 25+.

The Telegartner M12 Premium (not Gold) in the US retails for over $7K (last time I checked). The Telegartner Optical Bridge has a retail in the US of over $5K last time I checked with the distributor.

At no point was the TG nor the Tempus compared to the cheap switches. I do state however that for many people decent cheap switches will yield very good results for them and they don't necessarily need to spend a lot of money.

I tried to explain it very clearly and I'm sorry if I didn't do a good enough job for it to make sense.