07-Jun-2019, 18:12
(06-Jun-2019, 10:46)GuillaumeB Wrote:Interesting feedback. In particular the “cognitive dissonance” experience. That also occurred once with me when I was experimenting with the shielding for one of my ethernet connections. (didn’t own the switch at the time)(06-Jun-2019, 07:10)Johnnydev Wrote: Any news GuillaumeB or someone els?
Well indeed!
I was very happy with the single SOtM switch, essentially replacing the AQVOX. As I think I reported previously this was an instant improvement.
Then 10 days or so ago the second switch arrived. I connected this to the other SOtM using an ethernet cable. Very happy with the result, basically more of the same.
Once I had received the correct transceivers (long story) I was able to try connecting the two SOtM units via fibre. This also had quite a big effect but one that I didn't really like. Switching back to an ethernet connection between the two units confirmed my impressions. I could hear that the optical connection did some good things (soundstage even deeper, noise floor even lower) but I didn't really enjoy the music. Perhaps the transceivers needed more time to settle? I have no idea.
I then installed a bridge between my router and office switch (which feeds my SOtM), using the same transceivers and some media converters from FS.com (https://www.fs.com/uk/products/35333.html).
Now this was REALLY interesting, it made a massive difference! To the point where my brain is almost struggling to make sense of things. I know it's better - in "hi-fi" terms - but there is some kind of cognitive dissonance going on. I am gradually coming round to the idea that perhaps I just need a bit of time to get used to things. It's like the presentation of music has changed quite a bit and I can't quite work out whether I like it or not. There are some good moments, then moments where I am not so sure.
So over the next few days I will try removing things to understand what is going on and work out which combinations I prefer.
And I have just heard that the Gold M12 is being sent to me tomorrow, so that should arrive next week.
Guillaume
I have placed my fiber optics experiment on hold at the moment. Can’t seem to find the time required to figure out what exactly I need, not to mention laying cable, etc.
My impression of the switch is a bit of a mixed bag. With my “pre”-switch setup, I had bridged my Melco, Zenith, and Trinnov directly with each other, therefore taking a switch completely out of the equation. Now I have connected each component to the switch and the results are “slightly” better than the bridged setup. Also, if I compare a direct ethernet based connection (incl. switch) to my Roon Ready Trinnov versus a USB based connection via my Mutec MC-3, I still prefer the sound signature of the USB connection over the Ethernet one. One thing which has definitely improved is DVD Audio streaming from my Oppo. Clearly a distinct uplift in SQ there.
The journey continues ....
Kii Three Speakers | JL Audio Fathom Subwoofer | KEF LS50 Speakers | Samsung 850 Soundbar
Innuos Statement | Trinnov Altitude 32 | PS Audio Stellar S300 Amp | T+A HA 200 Headphone Amplifier | Meze Empyrean Headphones
Sean Jacobs DC-3 Custom Build LPS | Roon Core DIY Server | SOtM sNH-10G Modded Switch | Oppo UDP-205 Blu-Ray/SACD Player
T+A G 2000 R Turntable | DS Audio E1 Optical Stylus | Gordian Lab 12 Power Conditioner | Artesania Audio Rack
Innuos Statement | Trinnov Altitude 32 | PS Audio Stellar S300 Amp | T+A HA 200 Headphone Amplifier | Meze Empyrean Headphones
Sean Jacobs DC-3 Custom Build LPS | Roon Core DIY Server | SOtM sNH-10G Modded Switch | Oppo UDP-205 Blu-Ray/SACD Player
T+A G 2000 R Turntable | DS Audio E1 Optical Stylus | Gordian Lab 12 Power Conditioner | Artesania Audio Rack