Ethernet cable quality

[GuillaumeB]

Someone has taken a Vodka apart:

http://arstechnica.co.uk/gadgets/2015/07...ok-inside/

Looks like a well-made cable though the masking tape rather let things down  I would be genuinely interested to see technical measurements to back up Audioquest's claims of superior quality. I don't mean whether it handles digital signals accurately (which, of course it will) but rather how effectively the design minimises impact from other factors that may possibly impact SQ in some systems like RFI and common mode RF currents.  I had a look but couldn't find any information on patents registered by Audioquest on ethernet cable design.

EDIT: Just remembered Archimago's test on ethernet cables in which he found no significant difference in performance across a range of ethernet cables in his system. Though many others have reported significant differences in SQ in their systems.

http://archimago.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/...audio.html

EDIT2: Some people add small RFI chokes to their ethernet cables which they claim improves performance.  I have tried this in my system and could hear no difference but there is little RF pollution in my listening room

I believe Total DAC has covered their whole ethernet cable with RFI chokes.

Correct and it's quite a sight!

Over the years I have tried many ethernet cables and have settled on the AQ Diamond, in my system it makes a decent amount of difference. The Totaldac is nice but I find the AQ Diamond just a bit more refined.

But let's face it we are not talking huge improvements here and I wouldn't want to subject myself to a DBT. 

Probably things like optical bridges and better power supplies for switches and routers and better isolation of power between hi-fi and network stuff will have a greater effect.

Guillaume