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AUDIO FORUMS >> Digital >> Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
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Message started by JHC on 08/20/26 at 01:01:27

Title: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/20/26 at 01:01:27

Hi everyone,
I finally have my streaming system and DAC dialed in. It has undergone some major edits over the last couple years, thanks in part to many of you. The last edit I am thinking of making is cleaning up my connection from a wireless mesh node. I am looking at either a passive ethernet filter (like the eno2) or fiber converter (like the Sonore opticalModule or LHY FMC).

The fiber converter is enticing due to the isolation, but the reviews of the eno2 in terms of sound seem really good and what I am going for.... of course, the best option would be buy both and try but cost, return fees, etc. is something I am trying to avoid.

Wondering if anyone has any experience cleaning up there ethernet connection and had some insights into the pros/cons of each method. Thanks!

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/20/26 at 01:19:17

Ill also note that I read through the "Fiber vs ethernet" post and didn't want to throw a curve in it by asking about ethernet filters in it.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Hearafter on 08/20/26 at 16:48:35

JHC- This might be of interest and pretty well priced. https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650348282-sonore-optical-module-complete-optical-streaming-system/
I used a Stack Audio Smoothlan ethernet filter with nice results installing it right in front of my streamer. Once I replaced a FMC with the Sonore Opticalmodule the Smoothlan was no longer needed.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/20/26 at 20:43:09

Thanks Hearafter,
Did you notice a sonic difference between the filter and the fiber? From what I gather, optical would prove to be the best isolation in terms of noise, but wondering if the sound is notably different than a filter. Or, more precisely, is it just a really good filter?

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Hearafter on 08/20/26 at 23:17:16

JHC, In my case I started by adding a basic optical set up. Router-FMC-optical-FMC-streamer for improvement. I then added LPS to the FMC’s which sounded better then added a Stack Smoothlan in front of steamer for additional improvement. Recently I switched out the FMC feeding the streamer with a Sonore opticalmodule deluxe for the largest SQ improvement. The Smoothlan no longer made an impact so it was removed.
I never did a direct comparison of only using Optical to only using Smoothlan filter.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Ghostship on 08/21/26 at 00:19:43

If you have wired Ethernet, an Ethernet filter will improve the sound. In my systems, Fiber conversion offered a better sound improvement. I'm convinced the best results will be found by ensuring your wired Ethernet is filtered (even if that filtration is part of the Fiber conversions), and fiber conversion, and the best quality power supply for the Ethernet and Fiber components, and, make sure those components' clocks are top quality OCXO.

At one point I wondered if I was crazy investing in signal before the DAC...but then I remembered people spend over $100k on phono cartridges so...I'm good.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/21/26 at 02:28:40

Thank you both. Sounds like fiber converting has had the biggest and best sonic impact. My streamer will accept SFP, so that makes things a little easier in terms of boxes and reconversion. I have been looking at testing out some very cheap but well regarded non-audiophile versions of both the FMC (TP-Link MC220L) and ethernet filter (DX Engineering ISO-PLUS) to see what kinds results they bring.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Ghostship on 08/21/26 at 10:52:11

Welcome to the Rabbit Hole! On your left, you'll find the Hooka-Smoking Caterpillar, and around the corner, Alice herself is waiting!

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Lon on 08/21/26 at 11:54:10

Yes, a rabbit hole. Glad I have decided long ago to stick with my (many many discs) and transports.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/21/26 at 21:59:51

Indeed, although I am fully through it at this point. The one thing I had never really—and still don't—want to do is buy two of anything so I can "A/B" them. I realize there is a value in that, but it seems more like an anxiety about getting the "best" whatever it is. I have found reviews and forums from like minded people much more informative.

Streaming is a different rabbit hole than other forms of audiophilia. One I personally find more confusing and less interesting due to it's digital nature.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by MM on 08/22/26 at 00:56:00

Quote:

I have been looking at testing out some very cheap but well regarded non-audiophile versions of both the FMC (TP-Link MC220L) and ethernet filter (DX Engineering ISO-PLUS) to see what kinds results they bring.

My understanding (could be wrong) is that if you convert to fiber there is no need for an Ethernet filter. The fiber is already going to completely isolate any noise on your Ethernet line. If your T10 takes a fiber input I would just go that route and get the benefits of that without worrying about adding a filter to your Ethernet.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Hearafter on 08/22/26 at 01:14:36

The second FMC device can introduce noise after the optical cable. That is why Linear Power Supplies and high quality fiber converters like the Sonore Opticalmodules, LHY FMC or the likes are recommended. Using a Stack Smoothlan after a generic second FMC made a nice difference for me on my journey. The FMC before the optical cable is less critical but still matters to a lesser degree. Some recommend having an audiophile switch with upgraded clock to send the best signal.

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by Ghostship on 08/22/26 at 13:16:04

Yes, and the T10 includes filtering for both the signal and the power (as do many of the others now, including Sonore, LHY, etc).

Title: Re: Ethernet filter or optic conversion?
Post by JHC on 08/22/26 at 22:52:24

Quote:

Thats my understanding as well. It seems like fiber converting is the best option. I guess I was wondering whether filter vs fiber led to any sound differences like maybe silver vs copper wiring (to use an imperfect analogy). Both good, but different based on preference, type, implementation, etc.

Rather than do an A/B I think I will go with the LHY since it has a linear power supply already built in and strong reviews. Will report back.