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

[AfterDark.]

AfterDark. Project Constellation Fiber Collection 

 

Today we want to introduce some of the very best SFP+ cable for Audiophile. They are selected to meet the highest requirement when we connect them via SFP port of the Audio Grade Network Switch, such as UpTone EtherREGEN, Cisco 2960 and Buffalo GS-BS2016. 

 

*** SFP 1G Version is at the very last of this page***

 

Group Buy Link - For SFP + 10G Version

 

Group Buy Link - For SFP 1G Version

 

There are different types of SFP and specification. Which one is the best sounding? Let begins with two brands: 1) Finisar 2) Cisco. 

 

We suggest to use the latest format of SFP+, which is available in the market now.  It has lowest jitter and latency for audio application. The use of SFP optical fibre media box will provide the optical isolation when connecting to EtherREGEN. The improvement is noticeably immediately.  

 

Let's start with two new models from Finisar: 

 

Part number: FTLX1475D3BTL SFP+ Modules  

• Finisar have release 3 different models FTLX1475D3XXX for market segments (Enterprise Grade, Datacenter grades and Industrial Grade) the outlooks is a little bit different on the metal handle at the back. 
• So when we look at the details on the product specification at Finisar. We can summarised with different models is referring to:
  • FTLX1475D3BCL ->  Enterprise Grade ($)      
  • FTLX1475D3BNL ->  Datacenter Grade  ($$)
  • FTLX1475D3BTL ->  Industrial Grade ($$$) This model is in highest specification with better quality on laser components and better build with various tests. The result is ultra low latency on signal transfer for Audio. Image is more refined and details. 

 

 

• Product Features:
  • Wavelength 1310nm, single mode, DFB Laser
  • Supports 9.83 to 10.5Gb/s 
  • SFP+ 
  • Build in digital diagnostic functions
  • Finisar SFP+ transceivers provide a enhanced digital diagnostic monitoring interface, which allows real-time access to device operating parameters such as transceiver temperature, laser bias current, transmitted optical power, received optical power and transceiver supply voltage. It also defines a sophisticated system of alarm and warning flags, which alerts end-users when particular operating parameters are outside of a factory set normal range.

 

 

Why choose Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL? 

• Industrial grade, the laser accuracy is much higher specification compares to Enterprise grade. 
• Finisar is leader in producing best sounding SFP modules for audiophiles.
• The version is very limited edition made for Industrial, the pull handle is made in stronger metal alloys. 
• 1310nm Single Mode, optimised for audio applications. 
• Optimized for UpTone EtherREGEN switch with built-in SFP optical bridge connected to a single clean output Ethernet
• When we compared to other SFP+ , this Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL is outstanding in sounding. The sound is Reference grade. 

 

 

AfterDark. Project ClayX Constellation SFP+ Modules for Audiophile includes: 

• Audiophile grade Single Mode Cable made by Commscope for highest quality optical reflection 
• Finisar SFP+ Single Mode SFP Modules - Industrial grade quality for lowest jitters audio data transfer 
• Customize length of 3 meters, 5 meters, 10 meters, 15 meters
• Applied EMI shielding enhancement for Audiophile SFP Modules 
• Cat 8 Network Cable is made in Germany by Telegartners - with the lastest CAT8.1 plug optimized to use in "Last Mile" for Port B at EtherREGEN. 
• The SFP / RJ45 Convertor is enhanced with EMI absorber from KEMET Corp

 

Sound Impression: 

• Music flow smoothly and huge soundstage
• Mid-range is lovely 
• High-frequency silky smooth 
• Very impressive overall, highly recommended

 

 

Group Buy:

• Group Buy Offer:  FREE AfterDark. Constellation RJ45 SFP Fiber Media Convertor x 1 units  + 10% off discount code:  audiophilestyle.com
• Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL SFP+ Module x 2 units 
• Commscope TERASPEED LC-LC Single Mode Optical Fiber Cable 3 Meters x 1 unit 
• Group Buy Link

  

 

 

 

 

 

Part Number: Finisar® FCBG110SD1CA5 Active Optical Cable (AOC)  

• This is Finisar SFPWire
• Optical cable is direct attached to the SFP modules on both ends
• The wavelength is 850nm
• 10 Gb/s bi-directional links
• SFP+ Direct-Attach Connectors

 

Group Buy Link For Finisar SFP+ AOC

 

Sound Impression: 

• The sounding is the same as as Finisar SFP + Industrial Version (Reference) 
• Soundstage is huge with a lot of details
• Positioning and sound decay is well performed 
• Warmer sounding, mid-range is nice, good for vocal. 

 

 

Part Number: SFP-H10GB-CU3M Twinax copper cables

• This is Cisco SFP Twinax series
• Copper Wire cable is direct attached to the SFP modules on both ends
• 10 Gb/s bi-directional links
• SFP+ Direct-Attach Connectors

 

Sound Impression: 

• Sound forward and harsh sounding
• Not recommended

 

 

Part Number: CISCO SFP-10G-AOC1M Active Optical Cable (AOC)  

• This is Cisco SFP+ Modules
• Optical cable is direct attached to the SFP modules on both ends
• OM1 Fiber cable 
• 10 Gb/s bi-directional links
• SFP+ Direct-Attach Connectors
• Made in Taiwan 
•  

Group Buy Link for Cisco SFP AOC

 

Sound Impression:

• This Cisco SFP+ is impressive, lush sounding, dynamic. 
• Highly recommended

 

 

 

 

Part number: FTLF1318P3BTL SFP 1G Modules  

• This module is the previous flagship version of FTLX1475D3BTL, the speed of SFP is at 1G Speed,
• More user friendly and provide excellent compatibility with all 1G devices. 
• Finisar have release 3 different models FTLF1318P3XXX for market segments (Enterprise Grade, Datacenter grades and Industrial Grade) the outlooks is a little bit different on the metal handle at the back. 
• So when we look at the details on the product specification at Finisar. We can summarised with different models is referring to:
  • FTLF1318P3BCL ->  Enterprise Grade ($)      
  • FTLF1318P3BNL ->  Datacenter Grade  ($$)
  • FTLF1318P3BTL ->  Industrial Grade ($$$) This model is in highest specification with better quality on laser components and better build with various tests. The result is ultra low latency on signal transfer for Audio. Image is more refined and details. 

 

• Product Features:
  • Wavelength 1310nm, single mode, Fabry-Perot Laser
  • Supports up to 1.25Gb/s 
  • SFP
  • Build in digital diagnostic functions
  • Finisar SFP+ transceivers provide a enhanced digital diagnostic monitoring interface, which allows real-time access to device operating parameters such as transceiver temperature, laser bias current, transmitted optical power, received optical power and transceiver supply voltage. It also defines a sophisticated system of alarm and warning flags, which alerts end-users when particular operating parameters are outside of a factory set normal range.

 

AfterDark. Project ClayX Constellation SFP+ Modules for Audiophile includes: 

• Audiophile grade Single Mode Cable made by Corning Gold Series for highest quality optical reflection 
• Finisar SFP Single Mode SFP Modules - Industrial grade quality for lowest jitters audio data transfer 
• Customize length of 3 meters, 5 meters, 10 meters, 15 meters
• Applied EMI shielding enhancement for Audiophile SFP Modules 
• Cat 8 Network Cable is made in Germany by Telegartners - with the lastest CAT8.1 plug optimized to use in "Last Mile" for Port B at EtherREGEN. 
• The SFP / RJ45 Convertor is enhanced with EMI absorber from KEMET Corp

 

 

Group Buy:

• Group Buy Offer:  FREE AfterDark. Constellation RJ45 SFP Fiber Media Convertor x 1 units  + 10% off discount code:  audiophilestyle.com
• Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL SFP+ Module x 1 units or 2 units
• Corning Gold Series LC-LC Single Mode Optical Fiber Cable 3 Meters or other length x 1 unit 
• Group Buy Link

 

 

[AfterDark.]

12 minutes ago, Roasty said:

I'm interested in Part Number: CISCO SFP-10G-AOC1M Active Optical Cable (AOC)  

 

But in the item page, the option is for 2m, but in the description it says 1m.

 

I need a 2m length cable. 

 

Also, this should work fine between the ER and sotm Snh10g switch right? 

 

Hello! Roasty,

 

Good catch! 

 

This model is limited to 1 meter only. This will work plug and play for ER and SoTM SNH10G switch.  

 

Thanks for your interested. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

45 minutes ago, MasterWarzombie said:

Hi , 

This morning I ordered the Finisar after a quick exchange with Adrien for France to replace my SFP basics bought from FS.
As I have ER and Switch Sotm, I will be able to test both devices in SFP.

I have a beginner's question. 
the pull handle on the SFP must be put down and we insert the optical cable or simply clip the cable without lowering the pubb handle. Because I see photos with the two positions.

 

I hope not to be disappointed with this "tweak"
I hesitated with the cisco.

 

merci @AfterDark.and Adrien

 

Laurent

 

 

Hi! Laurent, 

 

Thanks for your question. I found this tutorial, this can avoid damage on the SFP modules. 

 

We tried some other brand SFP, this Finisar SFP+ is another level when it compared to Cisco, FS. This model is special made for Industrial, the Bale-clasp latch is made of metal alloy.  The laser inside is more refine. 

• FTLX1475D3BCL ->  Enterprise Grade ($)      
• FTLX1475D3BNL ->  Datacenter Grade  ($$)
• FTLX1475D3BTL ->  Industrial Grade ($$$) This model is in highest specification with better quality on laser components and better build with various tests. 

 

 

Be Aware of Before Installing or Removing A Transceiver module

Before removing or installing a SFP Transceiver Module you must disconnect all cables, because of leaving these attached will damage the cables, connectors, and the optical interfaces.

 

Complete These Steps in Order to Remove SFP Transceiver

1. Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap to your wrist and to the ESD ground connector or a bare metal surface on your chassis.

2. Disconnect the network fiber-optic cable or network copper cable from the SFP Transceiver Module connector.

3. For optical SFP transceivers, immediately reinstall the dust plugs in the SFP transceiver optical bores and the fiber-optic cable LC connectors.

 

Release and Remove the SFP Transceiver Module from the Cocket Connector.

 

If the SFP transceiver has a Mylar tab latch, pull the tab gently in a slightly downward direction until the transceiver disengages from the socket connector, and then pull the SFP transceiver straight out. Do not twist or pull the Mylar tab because you could detach it from the SFP transceiver.

 

If the SFP transceiver has an Actuator button latch, gently press the actuator button on the front of the SFP transceiver until it clicks and the latch mechanism releases the SFP transceiver from the socket connector. Grasp the actuator button between your thumb and index finger, and carefully pull the SFP transceiver straight from the module slot.

 

If the SFP transceiver has a Bale-clasp latch, pull the bale out and down to eject the SFP transceiver from the socket connector. If the bale-clasp latch is obstructed and you cannot use your index finger to open it, use a small flat-blade screwdriver or another long narrow instrument to open the bale-clasp latch. Grasp the SFP transceiver between your thumb and index finger, and carefully remove it from the socket.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

[AfterDark.]

2 hours ago, Roasty said:

@AfterDark.

 

That's unfortunate. 1m is not long enough for my setup.. Will there be any future plans for a 2m length? 

 

Hi! Roasty,

 

Thanks for your interest on CISCO SFP-10G-AOC1M, we may have more length such as 3m and 7m in the future. 

 

We are posting the excellent new Finisar SFP+ AOC version today. This version will have 1.5m or 2.5m as standard length. 

 

 

Have a nice day.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

[AfterDark.]

On 3/16/2021 at 6:39 PM, Roasty said:

@AfterDark.

 

That's unfortunate. 1m is not long enough for my setup.. Will there be any future plans for a 2m length? 

 

Hi! Roasty,

 

Thanks for your interested. The 2m length is in stock now. Please feel free to visit the purchase link below: 

Part Number: CISCO SFP-10G-AOC1M Active Optical Cable (AOC) &nbsp

 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

17 minutes ago, Roasty said:

 

Thanks! 

Going to place an order. 

 

What is this option? 

RJ45 SFP Optical Fiber Convertor

 

Should I be getting one or two if using between Uptone ER and sotm Snh10g switch? 

 

Hi! Roasty,

 

We are having group buy for audiophilestyle.com's member. This convertor is free of charge.

 

Suggest connection for RJ45 SFP Optical Fiber Convertor

Router --> Lan to RJ45 SFP CONVERTOR -> SFP FIBER to SotM SNH10G

SoTM SNH10G -> SFP FIBER to UpTone EtherREGEN 

 

First isolation stage:  Lan to RJ45 SFP Convertor, optical isolation to keep the noise away from router.

 

Second Stage: SFP between SoTM and ER 

 

Thanks for your interest and purchases.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

18 minutes ago, Roasty said:

Both the Cisco and Finisar are listed as "highly recommended". Is one better than the other? 

Hi! Roasty,

 

Thanks for your purchases. 

 

The sounding for Cisco is warmer. The Finisar is more balance and details. Two different sounding for different pre-amplifiers. (

 

Recommended depends on system

Tube Amp -> Finisar

Other Amp -> Cisco (Vocal ****)(Jazz***) / Finisar (Vocal ***)(Jazz****) (depends on music types) 

 

Thanks again. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

3 hours ago, soares said:

Hi Adrian, thank you for sharing your findings. A quick question regarding the Group buy for the Cisco SPF +. It’s not clear if it includes 2 SPF + modules as the offer for Finisar says “x 2 units”

• Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL SFP+ Module x 2 units 

 

 Kind regards, 

Jorge

 

Hi! Soares, 

 

Thanks for your interested. The package will includes 2 SPF+ on both ends. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

17 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

Adrian

 

You have to inform if this 10GB (only) is working on the EtherRegen. 
Also is the FMC you’re selling compatible with SFP+ 10GB. Can you supply us with data sheets.

I think this is very a very important issue. 
 

Andreas

 

Hi! Andreas,

 

Thanks for your questions. The SFP+ is certified and works well with EtherREGEN, Cisco 2960S, Buffalo GS-BS2016, SoTM switch. 

 

P.S Please make sure the SFP+ both ends is the same brand and models, the optical fiber for this Finisar SFP+ is single mode 1310nm wavelength. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

[AfterDark.]

Hi! R1200CL,

 

Thanks for your information. That is true, when two ends use different SFP Modules. For example, one with SFP+ and other SFP. In this case, they will not work. 

 

So, it is important to have both SFP Module in pairs, same models and speed. They will work in their ways at both ends. The SFP cage is only an interface for switches, most recent switch such as UpTone EtherREGEN and Buffalo GS-BS2016 is working plug and play. 

 

The SFP deliver and receiver was build inside the motherboard at SFP Modules, so they can sync with their speed. This module design is for datacenter, where they could easily replacement the module when it is out of services. 

 

So make sure both SFP+ is the same brand and model is more important. 

 

I hope it can helps. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

19 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

@AfterDark.

Can you confirm you personally have got the FTLX1475D3BTL to work between EtherRegen and any switch you have available with a SFP cage ? FTLX1475D3BTL in both ends of cause. 

 

 

Hi! R1200CL, 

 

Yes, we confirm all the SFP+ listing on this page is working. This is Buffalo BS-GS2016 x 2 connected with Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL as below. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

The latest Giesemann OCXO switch we build is working plug and play too. 

[AfterDark.]

33 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

Well if anyone is using the opticalModule which is also designed by John S, it’s now confirmed these 10 GB only modules won’t work with that device at all. 

 

 

Hi! R1200CL,

 

I shall prepare the list of switch which can use SFP+ . Some of the new switch like Buffalo GS-BS2016 for some reason can support SFP+ even it is not in the datasheet. 

 

Thanks. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian 

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

11 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

This SFP+ may work.

FTLX1475D3BNV

As well as this one:

FTLX1475D3BCV

 

Because it’s dual rate.

However since EtherRegen is NOT a 10 GB compatible device, it’s a waste.

And even if the item in the other end is 10GB, like those nice Mikrotik switches, you’re still only using a one GB line. Devices has to communicate on same rate. 

 

The only thing I can think about that will make worth paying the extra money (and risk), is that if it measures equally  good as  the FTLF1421P1 series, as well as the 10 GB only FTLX1475D3BTL which is offered here. 
Then you will have a future proof module that will also work in 10 GB network or application where such a technology is utilized.

It will take some effort from John to measure all this. He has an idea how. 
 

My advice to those that have an EtherRegen, or plan to buy one, it to stay safe and purchase SFP 1 GB muddles like the 

FTLF1421P1xCL

or

FTLF1421P1xTL
and maybe the

FTLF1421P1BTL-3G

 

 

 

Hi! R1200CL, 

 

Thanks for your research on different models. We have FTLX1475D3BNV in stock, customer may consider to change to this Finisar SFP+ to ensure it works on all devices. 

 

Thanks again!!!

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

18 minutes ago, Roasty said:

@AfterDark.

 

For the rj45 sfp media converter, can I find out what size input dc plug it uses? 2.1mm or 2.5mm?

 

I am planning to use the 5v USB out from a Keces P8 lps to power it; it outputs 5v 1A and should be sufficient? 

 

Hi! Roasty,

 

Thanks for your question. The RJ45 SFP Media Convertor is rated at 0.3A, so 1A is sufficient. The plug is on 2.5mm.

 

Have a nice day.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

HI! Alex,

 

Thanks for your details information.

 

After trial and errors with the SFP+ modules, as expected this will work plug and play as soon as both-end use the same model SFP+

 

The below is connecting Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL with Commscope Single Mode Fiber cable. All activity led was all on and working. 

 

For cancel order on MasterWarzombi, we accidentally dispatched the package to France, my mistakes. My shipping staff was not noticed. Therefore, this may be good chance to trial for him to try on different switch (UpTone EtherREGEN , SoTM Switch) 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

5 minutes ago, Roasty said:

So is it alright to mix single mode fiber and multi mode fiber? 

 

Eg from wall/media converter to sotm is single mode, and from sotm to ER is multi mode? 

 

Hi! Roasty,

 

Thanks for your questions. This will work, the package of SFP+ will plug and play for the setting. The below is the Cisco SFP+ AOC module.

 

 

Have a nice weekend.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

17 hours ago, MasterWarzombie said:

@AfterDark.

Adrien,
Do you confirm that the Finisar SFP + I ordered are compatible with my etherregen or my switch as you indicated on your online store?
I am in doubt and I do not want to have a bad surprise when connecting.

 

Hi! MasterWarzombie,

 

Hello! The Finisar SFP+ module was tested and work plug and play in EtherREGEN. 

 

Have a nice weekend.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

17 minutes ago, LEO SOUND said:

@AfterDark.

 

does the AFterdark media converter come with a power supply?
Can we put a linear power supply 5 Volts 2 Amps?

 

Hello! Leo Sound,

 

Thanks for your questions. The SFP/ RJ45 convertor does not comes with linear power supply. 

The LPS with 5V 2A will work just fine.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

Hello! 

 

We have received some positive feedback for SFP Finisar, which improve the sounding, simple upgrades for Audiophiles.

 

 

Thanks everyone, we will have some innovative new product coming next week. 

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark.

 

[AfterDark.]

3 hours ago, desbiss said:

I appreciate the comments thus far. If anyone has insight into whether the Group Buy's Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL SFP+ Single Mode Modules (with the Commscope TERASPEED LC-LC Single Mode Optical Fiber Cable) will work between my opticalModule Deluxe and Melco S100, I'd love to hear from you... Perhaps @AfterDark.can confirm....?

 

 

I've read this thread fully and there are very helpful posts from everyone, but I'm not 100% clear if it will work with my opticalModule Deluxe and Melco S100 combo.

 

There had been some contradicting posts initially about it working with the opticalModule Deluxe, but I think it was concluded later along that they would / should work...? I also thought I read somewhere yesterday about two Melco S100's being connected with this SFP module at each end, but I can't find that post now... 

 

Insights / understanding are appreciated. Kindest thanks!

 

Hi! Desbiss,

 

Thanks for your sharing and questions. The combo will work plug and play with Melco S100 and OpticalModule Deluxe. The Single mode version will have noticeable improvement for audio application, with less reflections inside the optical singal which reduce noise and jitter for receiver when compared with mulit-mode models. 

 

For matching with other brand of fiber cable, we recommended to make sure it is on signle mode, with wavelength=1310nm as indicated on the label on Finisar. 

 

Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL is using laser beam instead of LED inside the SFP modules, the jitter is much lower then other models. This model is build for heavy industrial application with the unique oversize metal handle in blue and cannot be replicated with much cheaper purchase price at oem or other non-generic SFP, 

 

Since there is some non-generic or fake Finisar and Commscope cable in market from unknown source, some users may experience connection or performance issue when using non-generic model (The label looks a bit difference with blur wordings) 

 

We recommended to purchases from well known vendor for any purchase of Finisar or Commscope Fiber cable. 

 

 

Thanks and have a nice weekend.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

Hi! gionaz,

 

Thanks for your message and questions.

 

We will have new product based on Intel SFP Server Grade Network Adaptor which is designed to work plug and play for Finisar FTLX1475D3BTL SFP modules. This is tested to work with Music Server and connect them to UpTone EtherREGEN or SFP compaatiable devices.

 

The AfterDark. Black Modernize firmware at the SFP Network Adaptor is modified to use Finisar SFP module without any compatiable issues. 

 

The new product link is provided.

 

 

Thanks and have a nice weekend.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

Hi! gionaz,

 

The problem is fixed now. Thanks for your information.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

[AfterDark.]

 

Hi! All,

 

New Group Buy for Audiophilestyle.com is initiated. The new product specification will update at the first page of this topic. 

 

The main different are:

• Finisar module is changed from SFP + 10G to SFP 1G version of Finisar SFP FTLF1318P3BTL, which provide more compatibility issues with all 1Gb gears. 
• The Single-Mode Corning Gold Series glass cable is used instead of Commscope

Group Buy Link

 

Thanks and have a nice day.

 

Best Regards,

Adrian

AfterDark. 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

11 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

What type of laser in use ? Why didn’t you go for 1471 version ?

 

We received some request from audiophilestyle member for 1G version of SFP, with Corning Glass Fiber. This Finisar SFP FTLF1318P3BTL is 1G speed and using Fabry-Perot Laser.

 

 

 

[AfterDark.]

13 minutes ago, R1200CL said:

DFB laser is technically better !

 

Agreed. FTLX1475D3BTL is DFB laser

 

 

 

Screenshot 2023-02-12 at 8.47.05 PM