Jump to content
  • The Computer Audiophile
    The Computer Audiophile

    Audiophile 5: Sonore opticalRendu in 5 Minutes

    Audiophile-5-White-Letters-White-Background@4x.png

     

     

     

    Episode 2 of our new video series called Audiophile 5 is now available. In this episode we cover the new and highly anticipated Sonore opticalRendu. A full written review will follow this video shorty, we just need to put more time in listening to music and using the device.

     

    From the manufacturer:

     

    "The opticalRendu utilizes an SFP fiber optic transceiver at its input to provide 100% galvanic isolation from the network and USB audio output. The opticalRendu has linear power regulation, CPU circuit design with femto clocking, USB circuit design with femto clocking, and a network circuit design with femto clocking. This unit utilizes SonicOrbiter for its operating system like all previous Rendu products."

     

    Products Mentioned in the video:

    Sonore opticalRendu - LINK

    Sonore systemOptique Starter Kit - LINK

    Sonore 7V 15W Linear Power Supply - LINK

     

    Ubiquiti UniFi Switch 8 (150W) - LINK

    Ubiquiti SFP Modules (UF-SM-1G-S) - LINK

    Single Mode LC to LC 10 Meter Fiber Cable - LINK

     

    Audiophile 5 is a series about you, not us, where we cover products and topics that interest you. And, we do it all in 5 minutes. We hate long videos as much as the next guy because time is the most valuable thing have. We don't like to waste it hearing about what the talking-head had for breakfast and what he and his significant other did last night. If you like that kind of stuff, fine. It just isn't us. We much prefer the slogan, all killer no filler.

     

    Note: This is our second video in the series. Please be patient as we continue to develop the concept, improve the quality, and fix some issues. We can't wait for you to see what's next. Subscribe to our YouTube channel, if you're so inclined, here.
     

     

    P.S. You may want to watch it on YouTube for the full cinematic effect. 

     

     




    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments



    51 minutes ago, The Computer Audiophile said:

    @firedog I think you’re reading into this too much or making it harder than it needs to be. 

    Could be. Right now, with a conventional renderer I have NAS, non optic Switch, renderer, DAC. There's a limit to how many pieces I'd want to add into that chain to switch to an optical setup. That's all I'm trying to figure out.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 minute ago, firedog said:

    Could be. Right now, with a conventional renderer I have NAS, non optic Switch, renderer, DAC. There's a limit to how many pieces I'd want to add into that chain to switch to an optical setup. That's all I'm trying to figure out.

    I didn’t have to add anything, but rather replace / swap out stuff. 

     

    Swap your switch for one with an sfp slot, put an sfp in that switch, swap your copper cable for a fiber cable and that’s it. 

     

    I’m totally with you on not wanting to add more pieces. That’s why I also mentioned my own setup in the video. 

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    13 hours ago, Em2016 said:

     

    Good point - no it's not.

     

    He didn't ask about ethernet but it's a good point you make, since we're discussing the opticalRendu here.

     

     

    Lumin X1 is.

     

    Sorry,....meant network (ethernet) fiber input.  My simple understanding is Fiber is network and Optical is digital connection.  I understand the nomenclature is interchangeable.  Fiber Ethernet just seems so cumbersome.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    2 hours ago, vortecjr said:

    I know of two DACs with optical network input. Remember this requires a computer in the DAC. Anyway, Lumin and MSB both have a DAC with optical network input. Our solution brings optical networking to any USB-Audio device. 

    Thank you.

     

    How much of a computer?  Will it ever get to a simple, single SOC in the near (5-year) term -meaning less $$ - or is it still too complicated?

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    17 hours ago, jcbenten said:

    So...when does the first DAC with Fiber Input come out?  

    Its pretty slim pickings at this point, but that is the dilemma as it see it.  Its anyone's bet, besides the products mentioned, if the standard will be a fiber direct and or at a minimum ethernet direct to the DAC. 

     

    $1200 isn't necessarily cheap and being one who already has an internal fiber home network along with a microU, does one make the plunge with the opticalmicroU and or wait it out a bit more. 

     

    It looks to be a great product and am heavily considering it, but its another "device" and would be nice to go direct without USB etc..  Although nothing wrong with well implemented USB and I suppose the OS in the Sonore product does provide a lot of options that an otherwise DAC only most likely cannot - point being, I guess one will most likely need a renderer of some kind regardless if a DAC has a built in fiber/ethernet.  Sorry for the  rambling :)

     

    @vortecjr was the purpose of you collecting emails regarding this new product for you to get an idea of the interest (in numbers) or was there another reason?

     

    @The Computer Audiophile I like the vid format - quick and to the point.  well done

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    7 hours ago, vortecjr said:

    Anyway, Lumin and MSB both have a DAC with optical network input. 

     

    MSB uses optical cable with SFP modules in the DAC and their transports this is not for ethernet only connection between dac and transport they call it MSB PRO ISL.

     

    "Our proprietary connection, the Pro ISL interface prioritizes the most efficient aspects of any digital interface, using an infrared laser diode to transmit over a single-mode fiber cable. This enables features like clock sync and error correction, all while obtaining perfect isolation and ensuring the lowest possible jitter."

     

    Select-Transport-Pro-ISL-Close-Up-400px-1.thumb.jpg.6a3512af8589a9dbb229d0452c5fc304.jpg

     

     

    MSB renderer modul uses ordinariy LAN connection.

     

    Modular-Renderer-Input-Board-with-Module-400px.thumb.jpg.deda75059354c39233417603fd26ccc7.jpg

     

     

    I have not seen any other DAC than Lumin X1 to have SFP port built in.

     

    LUMIN-X1-rear.thumb.jpg.9fa6e0bb77475063af37b08629530c0c.jpg

     

    LUMIN-X1-inside.thumb.jpg.b6ab8ebcfaa87a5b6a90f1ecdb953c4c.jpg

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    One of the stated purposes of the new site name is to draw in more people.
    I think that the Audiophile Five would be a great vehicle for a series of tutorials.
    Some ideas off the top of my head would include:

    - what is a NAS?

    - what is the difference between a streamer, network bridge, network audio player, network bridge, etc.?
    - how to set up a home system

    - what is a SFP?

    - what is a digitial to digital converter?

    - what is the difference between USB, SPDIF, etc?

    - what is the difference between balanced and unbalanced connections?

     

    I've really enjoyed the series thus far.  Great job!

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    Can I replace the Ultrarendu with an Opticalrendu? Does he also play DLNA, Audirvana and Tidal?

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    @The Computer Audiophile How does the OR compare to other transports, such as your own W20?
    If know its a huge price difference between the two, and that the W20 probably sounds way better.

    Still it would be interesting to hear your impressions on how good the OR are compared to other transports.
    I have a SOtM SMS200ultra with uptone lps 1.2 and Im looking for something better.
    Thanks. 

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    40 minutes ago, Chiler54 said:

    Can I replace the Ultrarendu with an Opticalrendu? Does he also play DLNA, Audirvana and Tidal?

    Both units support DLNA, Audirvana, Tidal, etc. The operating system is basically the same. 

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    2 hours ago, octaviars said:

     

    MSB uses optical cable with SFP modules in the DAC and their transports this is not for ethernet only connection between dac and transport they call it MSB PRO ISL.

    Okay...you got me:)

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    4 hours ago, Foggie said:

    Its pretty slim pickings at this point, but that is the dilemma as it see it.  Its anyone's bet, besides the products mentioned, if the standard will be a fiber direct and or at a minimum ethernet direct to the DAC. 

     

    $1200 isn't necessarily cheap and being one who already has an internal fiber home network along with a microU, does one make the plunge with the opticalmicroU and or wait it out a bit more. 

     

    It looks to be a great product and am heavily considering it, but its another "device" and would be nice to go direct without USB etc..  Although nothing wrong with well implemented USB and I suppose the OS in the Sonore product does provide a lot of options that an otherwise DAC only most likely cannot - point being, I guess one will most likely need a renderer of some kind regardless if a DAC has a built in fiber/ethernet.  Sorry for the  rambling :)

     

    @vortecjr was the purpose of you collecting emails regarding this new product for you to get an idea of the interest (in numbers) or was there another reason?

     

    @The Computer Audiophile I like the vid format - quick and to the point.  well done

    The opticalModule will be a good value;) I see no issue with you trying one, but I'll let you decide when we announce the price.

     

    With respect to DACs with optical inputs. From my point of view these devices have a hard time keeping up with new software features. Some can take a while to implement and some can't be implemented. Our operating system is very flexible.

     

    We collect emails because early adopters get the first option at buying a unit. Also, we plan to give away an undetermined quantity of optical starter kits to early adopters.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    8 hours ago, firedog said:

    Could be. Right now, with a conventional renderer I have NAS, non optic Switch, renderer, DAC. There's a limit to how many pieces I'd want to add into that chain to switch to an optical setup. That's all I'm trying to figure out.

    Two things:

    1. We will have an all in one with optical input based on the opticalRendu board.

    2. The opticalRendu can also be fitted with a RJ45 SFP module. This way you can still benefit from the rest of the design updates and you can switch to optical down the road.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 minute ago, vortecjr said:

    We will have an all in one with optical input based on the opticalRendu board.

    What do you mean by all in one?  An opticalRendu with an integrated opticalModule?

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    16 minutes ago, rickca said:

    What do you mean by all in one?  An opticalRendu with an integrated opticalModule?

    No...a built in power supply because that is how I plan to use it:)

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    Also, I forgot to mention we have another trick up our sleeves...

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    7 minutes ago, The Computer Audiophile said:

    What sound effects?

    Starting at the 35 second mark after you say let's go.  Then again at the 4:54 mark.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    21 minutes ago, rickca said:

    Starting at the 35 second mark after you say let's go.  Then again at the 4:54 mark.

    Ah. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. 

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    6 hours ago, rickca said:

    Starting at the 35 second mark after you say let's go.  Then again at the 4:54 mark.

    That's just part of the "video experience" - and why I often think videos are a waste of time. It actually takes 50 seconds or so of the 5 minutes till you get to the actual content.
    Chris, that's not a criticism of you, but of the medium itself. Just part of the reason I often don't have patience for videos. Reading text is faster and allows skimming.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    7 hours ago, vortecjr said:

    Two things:

    1. We will have an all in one with optical input based on the opticalRendu board.

    2. The opticalRendu can also be fitted with a RJ45 SFP module. This way you can still benefit from the rest of the design updates and you can switch to optical down the road.

    Okay thanks. Sounds like I'll wait for that and see.

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    5 hours ago, firedog said:

    That's just part of the "video experience" - and why I often think videos are a waste of time. It actually takes 50 seconds or so of the 5 minutes till you get to the actual content.
    Chris, that's not a criticism of you, but of the medium itself. Just part of the reason I often don't have patience for videos. Reading text is faster and allows skimming.

    I’ll try to keep this relevant to the topic:) I thought the video was well made and the sound affects were a welcomed part for me. The video is very effective at showing people how simple it is to connect and add optical networking. 

    Share this comment


    Link to comment
    Share on other sites




    Create an account or sign in to comment

    You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

    Create an account

    Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

    Register a new account

    Sign in

    Already have an account? Sign in here.

    Sign In Now




×
×
  • Create New...