Do you need 'Audiophile' Ethernet Switch? Can such Ethernet Switches make a difference?
It's probably the next big controversial topic right after the 'Audiophile' cables debate.
Let's be honest. Ethernet protocol TCP/IP, is robust and extremely reliable. The checksum/error detection is in-place to guarantee the packets get delivered from the Host to the Destination. The packets, typically, are FIFO buffered in the large memory of the Ethernet switch.
Unless there is serious networking issue, you would unlikely to experience packets drop, connection instability issues (i.e. In Digital Audio Streaming context, audio drop out/stutter).
The router/switch available on the market these days are powerful. For a typical household network with much less devices connected to the router/switch (less traffics), it's unlikely that one would face network issue.
Wireless (WiFi) is Radio Frequency (RF). It's prone to signal strength, interference, etc related issues. It is a big topic on its own.
So, why do you need an 'Audiophile' Ethernet Switch?
No, you do not need it.
But you may want it.
We are audiophiles. We are special. We embrace audio hobby. To some extent, we are OCD, a little paranoid. We want our audio system to be the best of the best - with every little details taken care of.
If there is a good quality product that doesn't break the bank but yet it can give us the peace of mind, we want it.
(Oh yes, I am speaking for myself :) )
Let's meet the LHY Audio SW-8 High Quality Network Switch.
LHY Audio SW-8
High quality 8-ports Network Switch housed in CNC Milled Aluminium Chassis, powered by Ultra-Low-Noise Linear Power Supply, Clock by OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator).
LHY Audio: https://www.beatechnik.com/lhy-audio
Product Info: https://www.beatechnik.com/lhl-audio-sw-8
TEAM VINSHINE AUDIO