Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion HiFi & HT Chat Network Acoustics ENO filter

The iFi Audio DC iPurifier 2 isn’t a power source: it’s a mains noise suppression filter for an existing Switch Mode Power Supply.

Thanks for posting this. I was looking to replace the feed from my switch to the 818, replacing the cheapo one in use. I imagined I would go for a filtered cable from one highly regarded company, but I ended up buying the ENO Streaming System AG instead because it was so much better. I agree with your description of the benefits and would add that, for me, it was the added emotional connection with the music that swung it. A truly impressive product, well worth a listen IMHO.

I am pleased that the ENO filter has so enhanced your listening pleasure. I am surprised, given the free, try-at-home offer, that more people have not given it a go. Is yours fully burnt-in yet? It really does undergo a remarkable improvement during the first 100 hours or so.

As many will have noticed, I was very impressed with the Network Acoustics ENO network filter. I therefore decided to try a second filter to augment performance in my second Roon zone. The configuration delivering the network signal goes like this: router > cat6a > switch > ENO filter > NUC running Roon core > ENO filter > switch > router > cat 6a > second switch > ENO filter > PC running Roon bridge and control.

In my zone 2 the set-up is less optimal, not least that the speakers are closer together and toe-in is a compromise between what is needed for watching films and the requirements for stereo. The addition of the second filter brought a considerable increase in coherence and imagery as well as still enjoying all the other benefits. I feel this is a very worthwhile addition in terms of performance gained. Zone 2 has the benefit of two filters in its network connection.

Mine is fully burnt in and sounding terrific. It’s quite expensive but worth it I think if anyone wishes to significantly upgrade their streaming experience.

Thanks for your comments about the use of a second filter. NA had already mentioned this possibility to me ( ) so it’s good to hear your experience. My network is simpler than yours and my ENO filter is directly plugged into my 818 from a second switch using the AG cable, which is the approach recommended from NA I believe. I’m curious about why you have done it differently? What cable do you use to connect to your (Meridian?) pre-amp/processor?

Good to learn that all is well. My connections differ from yours because of my problems with the ID41: I cannot get it to work with my TalkTalk router. I am therefore using a USB connection in both zones. I would rather have used the ID41 as I think that USB is inherently noisier.

I bought each filter with 1m of their ethernet cable that is on special offer. Shamefully, I have not tested whether the cable brings any special enhancements as claimed!

For an interesting and detailed review of the ENO filter by Hans Beekhuysen on his You Tube channel see here

Although he says that Network Acoustics recommend the use of the filter placed after a switch he does not appear to try this configuration himself other than with the Uptone EtherRegen. Nonetheless many should find his review very helpful.

Ok guys as promised here is my "audio guy" impressions of the Eno AG streaming system.

For me the difference was immediately noticeable. Using a 218 connected to DSP8000SE upgraded speakers playing my standard track for demo comparison, Stevie Ray Vaughn's Tin Pan Alley, the opening kick drum was all I needed to tell that something different was in my system. The bass punch, tonal quality and textures were so much better articulated by the system. Imaging that was once dead center and a little low had more height and instruments seem to take their place around the sound stage. Vocal harmonies are presented with more layers.

Keep in mind that devices such as these require that you be a good listener, know your tracks well and have equipment that is able to resolve subtle differences. With the 8kse, Shunyata Sigma power cables and Everest power distributor paving the way, the benefit of the Eno becomes quite evident. Such things are lost on a room that is poorly set up or has issues with bass nodes that cloud all the good stuff. I enjoy my system more with the Eno installed. Most of all relax and enjoy the music.

That is a very good appraisal, Bruce. Thanks for posting it.
I too enjoy using the SRV track to test sound quality. There are two versions of it but the one that appeared as a "bonus" is unquestionably better.
Anyway, I am glad that you are finding that ENO filter brings such positive enhancements.

Hi All

Here is a quote from the ENO propaganda.

"ENO filters out electrical noise, which would otherwise be delievered via the ethernet cable into you sensitive audio equipment, without effecting the crucial data stream."

Please spot the misspelt words and also the word that does not appear in the OED.

Three mistakes in one sentence, unbelievable!!

They appear to make it up as they go along.

No confidence here.

Hector

Bruce,

How were you feeding the 218 in that test?

I this case the Eno was inserted between the 218 and the Luxul network switch. As it was a Eno streaming system, their etnernet cable was connected between the switch and the Eno.