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More applause for the Wired 4 Sound modified Sonos Connect

Posted by raingerz (A) on October 28, 2015 at 21:17:09

Some of you are familiar with Sonos Connect, which streams from services like Spotify. I use it to stream Deezer elite, which has lossless (CD quality) sound. Although I knew Wired 4 Sound offered a modification to the unit, I originally steered clear of mod because, according to one post here, it made a difference in only the highest end equipment.

Then I read one person say after getting his Connect modified that "he was living the dream." Another wrote that there was a night and day difference between the modified and stock Connects.

So I took the plunge. At $550 it was certainly not the cheapest upgrade I'd entertained, but I figured it was worth the gamble, mainly because I've always believed that eliminating jitter is probably the most important aspect of digital reproduction.

I'm no stranger to jitter elimination. I've been using a Monarchy DIP for over 10 years and a JISCO jitter attenuator for a little less time. Adding both made a difference in focus and tonality. Nonetheless, I believe that the transport/streamer creates jitter that cannot be adequately removed further down the chain. Once Humpty Dumpty falls, he cannot be made whole again.

So what did the modified Connect sound like? Improvements across the board: tighter bass; a midrange so much better defined that I can clearly make out the lyrics on songs that were, for lack of better word, muddled; transients that snap into focus.

Obviously, my account is somewhat impeachable because I am relying on my auditory memory; I don't have a stock Connect to compare it with. But the difference is so noticeable that I don't think a comparison is necessary.

So I give five stars to the Wired 4 Sound upgrade. Now I'm thinking of replacing my old MSB Link III. I thought I might try their DAC, but the Bryston BDA2 is appealing as well. Basically I'd like a more open sound, now that I hear what a good streamer can do.

This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:

Kimber Kable

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