Finisar SFP+ Modules for Audio Grade Network Switch (Group Buy for Audiophilestyle.com)

[MartinT]

Has anyone tried the Cisco AOC? I am currently listening to the Finisar AOC and it is damned nearly perfect: highly detailed, dynamic, with a potent bass end. The only weakness is some mild stridency in high female vocals and orchestral violins.

 

I saw that AfterDark describes the Cisco as 'lush' and wondered if it might suit me even better.

[MartinT]

Thanks. I have a 5m Cisco SFP-10G-AOC5M on its way and a Finisar FCBG110SD1C05 on test. The Finisar has greatly improved after more than a week of the Tara Labs burn-in and I shall give the Cisco the same treatment. The winner of these two will be my keeper and the Finisar has already set a high bar.

[MartinT]

18 minutes ago, TRHH said:

May I ask what switch you have? 

 

 

I have an EtherREGEN at one end of the link and a Signature Rendu SE at the other.

[MartinT]

10 hours ago, Blake said:

I really like this Finisar model.  Will be comparing shortly to FTLX1475D3BTL.

 

I'll be interested in the outcome.

[MartinT]

The Cisco AOC after 24 hours is sounding smooth and inviting with an all-time low in sibilance. It consistently stops me from analysing and gets me back to enjoying the music.

It does the detail, the dynamics, the bass every bit as well as the Finisar AOC, but it's more beguiling.

[MartinT]

15 hours ago, Blake said:

Finisar FTLF1318P3BTL vs. Cisco SFP-10G-AOC5M:

 

 

Now for a comparison with the Cisco.  The overall center of gravity is pulled more toward the mids and lower frequencies with the Cisco, whereas the FTLF1318P3BTL overall center of gravity is further up the frequency spectrum to mids/highs, if that makes sense.  Cisco has a smoother, rounder, lusher, meatier sound, while still being detailed and transparent.  Cisco sound staging is grander, much deeper, and set back further from the speaker plane as compared to FTLF1318P3BTL.  Overall the Cisco has a very sophisticated, refined, luxurious sound, but not in a rolled off, old school warm and gooey sense.  It still delivers the audiophile goods. 

 

I couldn't agree more, the Cisco SFP-10G-AOC5M is without doubt the best optical AOC I've used and it remains in place. Fantastic soundstage, lightning fast dynamics but without the relentless edginess and brightness of the Finisar AOC.