What exactly does the "Optical Isolation Switchboard" do, since there are no optical inputs or outputs on the ZS. I couldn't find any information on that device with Google.
iFi audio ZEN Stream - Streaming elevated to a higher plane
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Well, around 20 units only locally exist/sold today. Here is my review in Russian (please use google translate if needed). Basically this is an "advanced" network switch with the output optically isolated (from inputs).
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srkbear
500+ Head-Fier
Are you perchance promoting a product you invented yourself? If so, I think it would be best if you could be transparent about that and offer us some evidence to support it—and I think you should, because I’m always curious about new ideas!
No, I was asked to review the switchboard and I ended up buying this demo unit. I doubt that the switchboard is availble for sale today (sanctions, logistics and payment issues). Just wanted to share my findings that there is a room for improvement at a signal level and the ZS can make your DAC sound even better with devices like that.Are you perchance promoting a product you invented yourself? If so, I think it would be best if you could be transparent about that and offer us some evidence to support it—and I think you should, because I’m always curious about new ideas!
srkbear
500+ Head-Fier
OK, when you find time I’m interested in hearing more, thanks for sharing. Peace
It can be also a sign for ifi audio to work on something which can enhance/improve/clean the signal before it reaches the ZS.
srkbear
500+ Head-Fier
I wasn’t aware that it was dirty! I was pretty satisfied that they included the ANC tech throughout and I think mine sounds terrific. Don’t I have enough FOMO to worry about?It can be also a sign for ifi audio to work on something which can enhance/improve/clean the signal before it reaches the ZS.
I wasn't aware too until I tried that device...the changes are audible. I was so skeptical in the beginning.
Actually there are some very expensive devices on the market (over 2000-3000 USD) to clean the ethernet signal.
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sabloke
Headphoneus Supremus
I use wi-fi since wired LAN is not an option for me. Pretty happy with sound quality streaming on the Zen from a ROCK wired straight to my router. The connection is rock solid (pun intended on 2.4GHz / 72 Mbps, even when streaming DSD256. I can run 5GHz / 400Mbps easily but I read somewhere that 2.4GHz has better sound quality for whatever reason. I was contemplating buying a LPS for my router but not sure it would do any good for sound quality. Running a 19V / 80W LPS to the ROCK though.
on 2.4GHz / 72 Mbps, even when streaming DSD256. I can run 5GHz / 400Mbps easily but I read somewhere that 2.4GHz has better sound quality for whatever reason. I was contemplating buying a LPS for my router but not sure it would do any good for sound quality. Running a 19V / 80W LPS to the ROCK though.
A good solution in a busy network environment
There are indeed several solutions for network "cleaning" or galavanic isolation (switch cascade or optical bridge). There are several proposals, industrial or audio.
https://www.adark.co/products/after...andhartilo-mini-series?variant=15604136935542
https://www.fibersystem.com/product/ethernet-isolator-50-818/
Personally, I use the wifi mesh between my nas, the web and my Roon/Hqplayer server which connects by wire with the cheapest and most efficient accessory (considering the price) : DXE Iso-plus.
https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dxe-iso-plus-2
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My ZS is paired now with one unique device locally built - Optical Isolation Switchboard.
The signal coming to ZS is much cleaner now - one more step up in sound quality as a result.
It can be also a sign for ifi audio to work on something which can enhance/improve/clean the signal before it reaches the ZS.
Thanks for the suggestion! You never know what we have coming down the line the next.
This is what I use to clean the signal on the Wi-Fi in my home:I use wi-fi since wired LAN is not an option for me. Pretty happy with sound quality streaming on the Zen from a ROCK wired straight to my router. The connection is rock solid (pun intended
https://tinyurl.com/mr4cchn7
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Big man on the Fox
New Head-Fier
to DXE ISOplus. I have two sets.Running 2.31.6 Beta . Spotify connect does not work. This is getting ridiculous...
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