Ethernet & Streaming
Audiophile ethernet cables in Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7 and Cat8 for streamers, servers and network players, from Atlas, AudioQuest, Chord, Melco, Supra and Tellurium Q.
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Does ethernet cable matter in hi-fi?
The data arrives intact either way, so the case for audiophile ethernet is about noise rather than bit accuracy. Network cable carries high frequency electrical noise from routers, switches and everything else on the network, and that noise can reach the streamer and from there the DAC.
This is a category where opinions differ sharply and we would rather be straight about it. Some listeners hear a clear difference when they replace a standard patch lead in the last run before the streamer. Others hear nothing at all. The variables that matter most are how noisy the network is and how well isolated the streamer's own ethernet input is.
If you want to try it, start with the final run between the switch or router and the streamer, since that is where any change is most likely. A higher category number is not automatically better for audio: Cat8 uses a shielding arrangement that connects to the equipment chassis at both ends, which some systems prefer and others do not. Trying one in your own system is the honest way to settle the question.
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£4,333.33Ex. VATThe Nordost QNET7 Ethernet Switch is engineered to elevate digital audio performance. With seven specialized ports, nine low-noise power supplies, and noise-reducing architecture, it ensures pristine signal transfer for routers, streamers, servers, and DACs. Pair it with Nordost’s QSOURCE Linear Power Supply and QRT accessories for even greater improvements in clarity, dynamics, and soundstage. The QNET7 is a vital upgrade for unlocking the full potential of streamed and stored music. -
£415.83Ex. VATThe ADOT ONI-100 isolates your audio system from noisy home networks using internal fibre optic technology. It blocks interference picked up by Ethernet cables, reducing timing errors and improving sound quality. Compatible with standard RJ45 connections, it’s easy to install and delivers cleaner, more accurate audio performance for any hi-fi system.
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£2,333.33Ex. VATThe Shunyata Research Sigma X Ethernet Cable brings exceptional transparency, rich tonal balance and improved dynamics to high-end digital systems. With TAPc noise-reduction technology, KPIP v2 processing and an advanced CMode filter, it delivers cleaner playback and an engaging analog-like presentation.
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£1,500.00Ex. VATThe Shunyata Research Alpha X Ethernet Cable enhances network-based audio with lower noise, stronger dynamics, and greater overall clarity. Featuring TAPc modules, KPIP v2 processing, and CMode filtering, it elevates timing accuracy and tonal presence in any capable system. Ideal between a router or switch and a premium server, it offers a meaningful performance boost. Demo units are available for home evaluation. -
From£6,665.83Ex. VATThe DELA S5 is a high performance Japanese network switch with 4 SFP ports, 7 ethernet ports and front panel speed control for every connection. With the same solid chassis as the N5, it supports port disabling, colour coded speed indicators and flexible 1Gbps or 10Gbps operation. It delivers a notable upgrade from the S100 and S10 while remaining cost effective. -
From£383.33Ex. VATThe Blue Heaven 3 Ethernet Cable enhances streaming by supporting clean, stable data transfer between networked audio components. With solid core conductors, individually shielded twisted pairs, and multi layer braided protection, it reduces noise and preserves detail. Its shielded RJ45 connectors maintain reliable transmission, helping your system deliver clearer, more engaging sound. -
From£2,749.17Ex. VATThe DELA S50 is a compact audio focused network switch with SFP+ and RJ45 ports, full speed control per port and a quiet power design. Its configurable layout, visual LED feedback and ability to disable unused ports make it ideal for creating a clean, optimized streaming environment. Hand assembled in Japan, it provides reliable performance for high grade audio systems. -
£665.83Ex. VATThis audio oriented SFP Direct Attach cable links compatible devices without extra conversion steps, supporting 10Gbps SFP+. Silver plated OFC solid conductors, a gold plated module case, and a low tangle mesh tube deliver stable performance for short runs. Limited to 2 meters, it is optimized for clean, direct audio data transfer. -
£1,079.17Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio SS-1 Audio Grade Network Switch is a hi-fi focused network switch designed for music streaming systems, featuring advanced clock design, optical isolation, flexible Ethernet speeds, and upgradeable power options for clean, stable digital audio performance. -
£1,579.17Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro Audio Grade Network Switch is a high-performance network switch built for hi-fi streaming systems, combining linear power, advanced clock design, optical isolation, and multi-speed Ethernet ports to deliver stable, low-noise digital audio transmission. -
From£124.99Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio CAT6A Network Patch Cord is a high-performance Ethernet cable designed for music streaming systems, supporting full 10Gbps data transfer with advanced shielding and high-purity OFC conductors to deliver stable, low-noise network performance for high-resolution audio. -
£579.17Ex. VATThe Matrix Audio SI-1 is an audio grade network isolator that uses active optical-electrical isolation and dual femtosecond clocks to remove network noise, eliminate interference, and create a cleaner signal path for streaming audio systems.
