This version is designed along with customer who is professional in Recording Studio enviroments. They required to have flexibility on working with different Word Clock Frequency, 10M Master Clock outputs for sync differents devices. We have some customer using dCS audiophile system. They are very keen on improving the existing dCS Vivaldi DAC with Giesemann OCXO Reference 10M Master Clock. In additions with 3 x Word Clock, they request 3 more 10M Master Clock ouputs signals for SoTM switch and other devices which accepting 10M Master Clock. 

Purchase Link 

For dCS Lina Network DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept accept standard Word Clock at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

For dCS Vivaldi DAC, the device are accepting 3 inputs of Word Clock as below:

• 3 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48, 96, 176.4kHz.

For dCS Rossini DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 44.1, 48kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

For dCS Network Bridge / Bartok DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 44.1, 48kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

What is the design concept of Giesemann OCXO Trifecta Extreme Edition?

• The outputs signal will be in Square Wave, 75 Ohms with isolated with 6 outputs BNC Connectors.
• Each of the outputs can be adjusted to various frequency
• The chassis is rigid, heavy weighted and fine tuned with Carbon Fiber for EMI protection and ensure highest stability of OCXO inside
• Custom made LPS (Linear Power Supply) will be build in for demanding applications and optimised for OCXO Master Clock
• Furutech NCF IEC socket to maxmise electrical contact on power supply
• The color of chassis can be made to order with choices of Silver and Black Colors
• Plug and Play compatibilty for dCS customers 

What is the range of Giesemann OCXO grade can be choose?

• All grades of Giesemann OCXO from Prince to Emperor Giesemann EVA can be made to order for customers

What is the specification to determined the Quality of OCXO?

• They can be graded by Phase Noise when compared the measurement result on both 1Hz / 10Hz intervals.
• Phase noise: -119 to -113 dBc / Hz or lower at 1 Hz offset (Grades) -137 dBc / Hz or lower at 10 Hz offset

Allan variance short-term stability reference value

[Emperor Giesemann EVA]TAU = 1sec 2.50E-13 or less（0.00025ppb / s）

[Emperor Giesemann] TAU = 1sec 2.78E-13 or less（0.00028ppb / s）
[Emperor Triple Crown] TAU = 1sec 3.8E-13 or less（0.00038ppb / s）

What is the summery of adjustable frequencies?

• 100Mhz, 50Mhz, 48Mhz, 25Mhz, 24Mhz, 8Mhz, 4Mhz, 33.8688Mhz,
• 49.152Mhz, 24.576Mhz, 12.288Mhz, 90.3168Mhz, 45.1584Mhz,
• DSD: 22.5792Mhz, 11.2896Mhz, 5.6448Mhz
• Word Clock: 192kHz, 176.4kHz, 96kHz, 88.2kHz, 48kHz, 44.1kHz
• Reference Clock: 10M Master Clock 

What is the standard frequency setting for dCS customers?

• Output 1: 44.1kHz
• Output 2: 48kHz
• Output 3: 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192kHz
• Output 4-6: 10M Master Clock 

The miniminst design of Giesemann OCXO Trifecta Extreme Edition for dCS will work plug and play for all dCS DAC

Giesemann OCXO Features 

The product uses the selected audio grade OCXO, and through long-term calibration to select and install equipment with excellent stability.

• OCXO that employs with qualitative measure equipment.
• OCXO is enclosed and covered with Dynamat Extreme Corporation (Made in USA) which is used to stabilize and minimize heat separation,  addition EMI material from KEMET EMI Shielding is placed on top of OCXO,  the outer layer is covered with real leather to isolate the heat factors for maximizing OCXO performance . 
• Alu material + Carbon Fiber material front and backplate, solid anti-vibration. In addition, due to the thickness used, 3mm / 6mm Carbon Fiber material material with plate can provide solid EMI/ magnetic coverage.
• Advanced instrument Symmetricom 5125A calibrated with plotted characteristics. The phase noise, and Allen Derivation defines different grades of the OCXO. 
• Audio Note Silver Solder
• Duelund AC0.4 Silver Premium Audio Cable (Silver in Cotton / Oil impregnated) (Handmade in Denmark)
• Ultra High Quality Large Factor 5151 SC Cut OCXO, very low phase noise and frequency stability compared to others small size OCXO specification 
• SC Cut refers to stress compensated (SC) cut crystal resonators, which is more advance on performance of Frequency Vs Temperature changes, longer Crystal Aging. The pro is expensive to made and size is larger then normal OCXO. 
• Then Large Factor size 5151 is around 5cm x 5cm dimension vs small factor 3cm x 2cm, 2 times bigger with better phase noise performances. 
• OCXO are available in tailor made on various audio frequencies on special request. 

Level selection value
The OCXO installed in the product can calibrate the products used in industrial equipment for a long time, and use equipment with good characteristics. In order to optimally select the audio clock, we comprehensively evaluate with Symmetricom Flagship 5125A to analysis the phase noise characteristics and short-term stability (Allen dispersion) that can be determinate the OCXO grading accordingly.

The OCXO installed in this product uses a stable OCXO unit that has been calibrated for several months. In order to make the best choice of OCXO. We are conducting a comprehensive evaluation of phase noise characteristics and short-term stability (Allen dispersion) during detailed inspection. 

The final product will final measured and fine tuned with Keysight 53220A with reference to Atomic Clock , GPSDO. 

The Trifecta EXTREME edition of Giesemann OCXO Modules is enclosed by Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT in 3mm

The story behind the new product development

Since we start to selling the new SFP+ module last month, we are quite excited to receive some very special request from one customer. He has a group of people using the Adnaco USB over Fiber Optical system. He is looking for tailor made a device which have the internal clock and wiring updated -  A USB over fiber optic device.  He is very keen on using a fiber optics to enhance the sounding on the USB device on DAC. 

Add to cart purchase

The design of Nocturnes USB Over Fiber Optics 

So we decided to design them with audiophile's mind. The design will be unique and quite innovative with the following enhancements just to enhance the sounding for audiophile. 

1. A device can filter EMI noises with Fiber Optics 
2. Perform the RE-clocking function on USB digital signal 
3. 1st motherboard will receive USB signal from audio sources and turns USB Audio signal into optical format via SFP+ module
4. 2nd motherboard will receiving the digital signal via SFP+ module and turns the digital signal into clean side
5. Re-clock the digital signal and optimised by AfterDark. Giesemann OCXO 10M Master Clock. 
6. The final clean side signal motherboard will be independent power by external linear power supply.  
7. There will be two box to avoid the EMI pollution, independent powered and isolated with SFP+ modules. 
8. Since we have two box which can connected by SFP+ modules, the distance will be flexible for customer who has device, distance from the listening room. 
9. The device will have 10M Master Clock output adds on function, to optimised for UpTone EtherREGEN and Mutec MC3-USB

Why not build the 2 isolation board on the same chassis?

• For audiophile, EMI noise can greatly degrade the sounding
• Even if the two PCB boards are separated, as long as they are in the same chassis, EMI may still be conducted through radiation and creates EMI electromagnetic interference. 
• Having two chassis can provide best isolation on EMI noise radiation inside, which can reflect back to the "Clean Zone"

Why we need Giesmann Clock?

• The design is based on the best technology we build for audiophile device such as EtherREGEN and Mutec MC3-USB
• The result of OCXO can improve the sounding and eliminate the digital feeling on music playback.
• The power supply is independent and powered by separate LPS, this separate of LPS with USB board can avoid the electronic noise which interference to the USB board. 
• The music will be more focus, smoother and improves the details on background. 
• Additional, 10M Master Clock output can be unitised for audiophile who has EtherREGEN to connect with 10M Master Clock signal for optimal sounding.   

Does the digital signal benefit with OCXO optimised for USB re-clocking?

• Yes the digital signal will be optimised for USB path

We SFP+ module?

• This is the best media for transfer digital signal for audiophiles devices, we have tested the range of SFP+ devices, the improvement is huge, music is just more claim and base is more authority. The soundstage is much wider, due to ultra low jitter and reducing the noise floor 
• This create a physical isolation between the Host (A Machine) and the USB device output (B Machine), the physical isolation create much better benefit when using the SFP+, which is higher in specification, and ultra low jitter for critical digital transmission.  
• Maximise the speed and quality for the digital transfer

How to enhance the sounding in two steps?

1. Connect the Host side (A machine) and USB DAC (B machine)
   • The Host (A machine): PC or Raspberry Pi/ Network Bridge through the USB cable 
   • The USB "Clean Zone" (B machine) : connect to USB DAC
2. Connect the 5V DC power with audiophile Linear Power Supply and connect to AC power IEC

Listening impression on Nocturnes USB Filtering?

• The micro dynamic is so important in music playback, when we apply the Nocturnes USB filtering on the audiophile system, the result is just amazing good. 
• More darkness in the background, so micro details just give you a new impression on music playback. 
• The music is more focus and airly. 
• Immediately noticeable and cannot live without Nocturnes USB Filtering

This two boxes design will be provide the best isolation from EMI polluted source such as PC, provide the clean zone for USB DAC. 

The first box will connect to the source such as computer, or USB streaming device. This device will translate the USB digital signal to SFP+ format via Cisco AOC optical fiber (Orange in colour) 

The second box will receiving digital signal from SFP+ module. This box will include the re-clock function and optimised by Giesemann OCXO 10M Master Clock. The Giesemann module is output the best clock signal for USB board and 10M Master Clock output at the top section. 

The Nocturnes USB Over Fiber Optics (UOVO) Giesemann 10M Master Clock Edition will be power by AC power with Furutech NCF IEC socket and external 5V DC power. 

The SFP+ module can be replaced with choices of Finisar SFP+, which is made to order for customer. 

Technical specification: 

• Two box chassis design
• Host (A Machine) with one USB C connector and SFP cage, the power filtering applied 
• Target device (B Machine) with one USB A, SFP Cage, DC 2.1mm 5V LPS required 
• Comes with Cisco SFP+ AOC module in 1M
• The external power is required for Giesemann Clock inside
• The max transfer rate is DSD512 

This my initial review of the Afterdark Giesemann OXCO Clock (Emperor Crown) and its associated Afterdark 12V double outlet power supply.

To be clear, I have chosen a slightly better clock than as offered as entry level Prince including all cables etc. (1.0m Giesemann clock cable + 10% off discount code and 75ohm adaptor). 

Namely the Emperor Crown comparable in price for example with the entry level Cybershaft also offered by Afterdark. Ordered a week ago and arrived last Wednesday in the Netherlands. 😄

Now running for 5 days.  As stated by Afterdark let the clock burn in for 3hrs, it will improve after 7days, up to 35 days to optimal level. And the clock should always be powered on.

To be clear, I have chosen a slightly better clock than as offered as entry level called Prince. Namely the Emperor Crown. The offer included all cables etc. (= 1.0 mtr Giesemann clock, 75ohm adaptor; cable + 10% off discount code).  And with the Afterdark. Black Modernize LPS x GIESEMANN OCXO 10M Edition. Added with Carbon Fiber, Schurter Gold Fuse, Furutech NCF and 2x 0. 8m DC Cables. 

Total approx. € 910,00 including shipment and import taxes. That’s ¼ to 1/6 compared with well-known Master clocks.

Ps. The entry model is about HK§ 4000,00  cheaper and stated by Afterdark will give also “enough” improvement.

I use the EtherRegen powered by a Farad super3.  An expensive but immediately observable improvement over the standard Uptone power supply.

But the Afterdark Clock adds a lot of extra. All is playing on an Auralic Vega G2.1 etc.

The effect of this Afterdark master clock is much more layers and stereo depth resp 3D. Voices are clearer and the instruments are better placed resp. separated.

A very nice improvement to my ears and on my audio-system.

A new update will soon follow compared to other Master clocks. And hopefully with a Farad and / or an Uptone JS2 also powering this Afterdark Master Clock. 

After consultation with Afterdark how to achieve even more improvement was his advice. Upgrade the clock first you will hear the difference in a second and also a better power supply.  

I heartily recommend the Afterdark Master Clock approach. 

Best regards, Andreas

AfterDark. is coming up with extreme version, a Cascade Trifecta Extreme Edition for audiophiles which is using the Mutec REF 10 or Giesesmann 10M Reference Master Clock.

The version will be modified and design to improve sounding with the highly rated network switch based on Buffalo BS-GS2016.

This "Cascade Trifecta Extreme Edition" will be the very first model in the world to build in two Buffalo GS-BS2016 while audiophiles can optimised with 10M Reference Master Clock. 

Purchase Link

The story behind the Cascade Trifecta Extreme Edition

We received some special requirement from France recently and looking for upgrade option on his switch. He is currently owned a Mutec SE120, 10M Master clock with multiple outputs of 10M signals. So, he would like to utlities his investment and looking for audiophile grade switch with 10M Master Clock in. He knows that Buffalo BS-GS2016 will be his first choices, but he just want a extra modification with 10M Master Clock Input Module. Would it be possible? he asked. 

Customer: Would it be possible just to modify and add a 10M Master Clock function? he asked. 

Adrian : Since you want to keep your existing 10M Master Clock to work with Buffalo BS-GS2016, we can look in to it.

Customer: If possible, please make a external 12V DC port, so I can use the LPS, it will be great. 

Adrian :  This can be done, we can modify with some Audio Grade Capacitor to be place inside the original chassis, let us found the biggest possible capacitor from MIFLEX Poland. where it can placed inside the Bufallo GS-BS2016.

Customer: Let's give me some update when it is ready. Thanks. 

Adrian : That would be great to have this product, since we have done this projects with Giesemann Clock Modules, we shall design the 10M Master Clock Input Modules from scretch, using the best component and make sure it is small enough to be placed in same chassis. 

AfterDark. Development ideas: 

• We have some ideas of the new board, a clock synethesis modules turns external 10M OCXO Clock signal into two 25Mhz Clock signal for one Buffalo or dual Buffalos, we shall make two outputs of 25Mhz, just to make sure it is future proof and provide more flexible to upgrades later on. 
• The DC power module requires to be redesigned for new clock synethesis
• The placement of module will be re-designed and to be placed near the main board,
• The chassis require to modify and place extra DC port and BNC socket and accept external 10M Input 
• A minististic design, which optimised peformance with choices of Giesemann OCXO 10Mhz Reference Master Clock and Giesemann LPS. 
• Single DC 12V LPS is required for Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016
• Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016, which accepting external 10M Reference Master Clock, This version will be using the carbon fiber chassis and re-designed with the new the carbon fiber input blackplate.  

Purchase Link

His impression on Buffalo BS-GS2016 Cascade OCXO.

"I would prefer the 2016 than the S100 because of its richer presentations. Using one 2016 already gives you the same character but using two is definitely a revelation. Everything just seems to be present around you. The presence is much better with two 2016." by Hols

"There is an easiness in the sound and everything come up so sure so accurate and fluent. There is no hint of any slowness or muffled sound or harshness that are sometimes associated with over-cleansing. And can I take out the SOtM? Yes I can and still live very happily with the sound. There is only very slight diminished high frequency only noticeable on critical listening."

"Overall very impressed with the clock-modded 2016." by Hols

How we design a Cascade Trifecta Extreme Edition?

1. Improve the outlook which make it more like a audiophile gear
2. We love the ideas of 10M Master Clock Input function of Buffalo GS-BS2016
3. The device should be powered externally with audiophile grade LPS
4. The power section should be enhanced with more exotic audio capacitors
5. The Giesemann 10M Intput Modules (GIM) will perform synthesizers 25Mhz independently. this clock signal will be optimised to Buffalo GS-BS2016
6. The units will be powered by 12V LPS externally. 
7. Two Buffalo BS-GS2016 will be installed and all modules should be fit into one single box
8. The internal wire with optimised with Duelund Silver Cable, and solder with Audio Note 
9. The front and backplate will be using Carbon Fiber.  
10. All the Lan ports inside will be apply with KEMET Corp. EMI Shielding material for eliminate of EMI 
11. The use of SFP Single Mode Optical Fiber will give you another isolation to connect Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016
12. External 10M Master Clock BNC socket to accept the extrnal 10M Master Clock signal for Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016

The Cascade Trifecta Extreme Edition can accept 10M Reference Master Clock signal for two Buffalo GS-BS2016 at the same time. 

This MIFLEX Audio Capacitor we used is over sized at 44mm x 50mm and placed on DC power section. It take quite a long time to burn in. After run-in for 7 days, the soundstage open up and so much airly, the sounding is just more relax and rich representation when we compared with other switch.  

The KEMET Aluminium Capacitor is another big plus to improve the micro details and darkness.

Miflex KPCU-01 Copper Foil Paper / Polypropylene in Oil

"Check out the new Miflex caps, the copper version are amazing.  I've been replacing all of the coupling and/or output caps in all my amps from the Jupiter copper to the Miflex caps.  IME the Miflex have better tonal density, more punch, more detail and present a blacker background.  In almost every respect that I care about, the Miflex are a serious step up. " 

Why Buffalo GS-BS2016 needs OCXO optimised?

We have same impression with member @Cool_Chris, the OCXO brings a very good sounding Buffalo GS-BS2016 to other levels. 

"This clock simply adds something that is unreachable in normal switches. It is so calm, fluid and transparent that nothing compares to that. No wonder Jord is installing this clock in his best designs. In short it is mine best switch too and I can't imagine to listen without it." 

New Giesemann OCXO Module developed for Buffalo GS-BS2016

The new designed of Giesemann Clock OCXO 10Mhz Clock Modules can synthesizers with external 10M Master Clock Signal. For example, two Buffalo motherboard required to receive two 25Mhz from a Giesemann 10M Master Clock. The latest development version of Giesemann OCXO Modules shall accept external 10M Signal, and provide flexible upgrades vs performance. 

Customer review and Software tuning with Cascade of Buffalo BS-GS2016?

• https://audiophilestyle.com/forums/topic/62283-the-development-of-buffalo-bs-gs2016-sfp-10g-cascade-x-giesemann-ocxo-black-modernize-edition/?tab=comments#comment-1159737
• https://www.open-end-music.com/forum/händlerforen/grigg-audio-solutions/high-performance-audio-pc/615789-afterdark-switch-2-x-buffalo-bs-gs2016-mit-giesemann-ocxo-in-der-praxis#post619816

"The Buffalo GS-BS2016 will be able to enhance music with more organic and realistic textures, much wider soundstage and revolving dynamics with quality of bass, the details of the entire range will be further improve with AfterDark. Giesemann 10M Input Modules"

Why Buffalo BS-GS2016?

What is so special about this switch? We are selling DELA S100 Switch and modified version. Just looking at the two motherboard, DELA S100 is using the same motherboard as Buffalo BS-GS2016. This make us quite curiosity on how to improve Buffalo BS-GS2016.  So, we purchase two unit from Japan market and see how Buffalo BS-GS2016 compared with DELA S100 (Estimate Price USD1600). So, let us open the metal box and have a look. 

The clock is placed near the Broadcom CPU. The Giesemann Clock Input Module will be bypass the old clock with external Reference Clock 10M. 

The inside of Buffalo BS-GS2016

The first listening impression on Buffalo GS-BS2016:

• This switch is the most natural sounding switch, there is nothing more on the cleaning on signal, so there is warm, and rich representation. Music flow is smooth as silk, treble is lush and fill up the listening areas with a lot details and decay. 
• When we compare to DELA S100, sound is more polite, when compared to Buffalo GS-BS2016. On the other hands, Buffalo is on the real performer, the music is real and right at the right places. 
• The Giesemann OCXO start to open up and perform after 3 hours and soundstage is much wider and mid range is so sweet, this may happened because the capacitor inside started to burn in. 
• After 24 hours powers on, playing music via ROON, my first impression is sounding become so fluid and transparent, the characteristics which other switch do not have. The noise floor is so low, so the micro details can fill the listening areas easily. In addition, we found  the bass is more authority, punchy and control. 
• The Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016 can amplify the improvement with wider soundstage, this may due to re-clocking of the switches, which makes it happened. 

Some reviews from audiophile: 

"The SR7 and Buffalo are still running in - however there is an obvious improvement in the quality of the sound produced already. The flow of music seems more liquid, greater sense of space particularly on live recordings and the dynamic range appears to be extended." by dctom

"But the true game changer in my system was the addition of Pink Faun Ultra clocks to the Buffalo 2016Lets call it PFU Buffalo. Nenon was the first to try to use this clock in Buffalo 2016 switch and he really likes it.He was stacking them for better results upto 6 of them. Austinpop (Rajiv) was tesing this switch (PFU Buffalo borrowed fron Nenon) extensively and it was a clear winner in his precise testing Against the other switches he had including Sotm . Additionally Nenon retested PFU Buffalo against the Telegartner M12 and he would still prefer the PFU Buffalo (60%) than Telegartner M12(40%).That is a very good news ." by KRIS

Why AfterDark. I2S HDMI?
Along with the success of AfterDark. Black Magic i2S HDMI last year, we have a lot of positive feedback from US and France audio forum. They would like something is unique in design and provide excellent sound performance with their i2s DAC such as Rockna R2R, PS Audio DAC and Gustard X26pro. 

Purchase Link

Does AfterDark. provide solution for i2S Network Bridge?

• Raspberry Pi4 base:  AfterDark. Rosanna i2s Network Bridge x Roon Endpoint player
• Diretta Piccolo base: Coming Soon 

AfterDark. Rosanna Network Bridge can outputs all digital signal at the same time, including i2s HDMI, Digital Coaxial, Optical, and USB for multiple DAC including the latency DAC. 

What is i2S?

• The I²S protocol outlines one specific type of PCM digital audio communication with defined parameters outlined in the Philips specification.

• The bus consists of at least three lines:

  1. Continuous serial clock (SCK)". a "bit clock (BICK)".
  2. Word select (WS)". a "left-right clock (LRCK)"
  3. Serial data (SD)", a (DATA)

What is the avantage of using i2S?

• The noise and interfernce problems is greatly reduced, it is because the i2S bus has only to handle audio data, while the other signals, such as sub-coding and control, are transferred separately. To minimize the number of pins required and to keep wiring simple, a 3-line serial bus is used consisting of a line for two time-multiplexed data channels, a word select line and a clock line.
• The simplcity means less coloured sounding with darker background and details. This is due to reduce number of digital converstion from e.g. USB XMOS
• The signal is more transparent. Since the transmitter and receiver have the same clock signal for data transmission, the transmitter as the master. It has to generate the bit clock, word-select signal and data. In complex systems however, there may be several transmitters and receivers, which makes it difficult to define the master.
• I2S is the shortest path from the CPU to the DAC (USB circuitry is avoided), minimal hardware and minimal USB cable etc. 
• Sound lush and retreive more resolution when playing with High Res Audio with minimal solution and known highest in sound quality seems to be the i2S bridge. 

What is the i2s standard for different DAC?

• Most DAC is following PS Audio Stardard, one of their leading PS Audio Direct Stream DAC is introduced i2S input for music playback. 
• Some of the Aygon DAC is using RJ45 i2S, they can be customerize and made to order for audiophile by AfterDark.

PS Audio DireamStream DAC is including two i2S HDMI at the top right side for Digital Inputs

AfterDark. have been testing all the special shielding material used on commercial industrial on electronic field, what we found interested is the material on the i2s HDMI plug, contact points, shielding, metal compositions and precise length of each of the internal wire affect the warm detail musical sounding for audiophile on their HiFi system.

What is the different between Black Magic I2S HDMI MKI and MKII?
This is a upgrade version of MKII, sounding tends to more focus and luxury high with high quality airy feel, 3 frequency is improved in soundstage, more musical and smooth , very good for vocal, jazz and best for classical music.

Specification:

• One Layer of Carbon Fiber Shielding woven for EMI shielding and Two Layer of aluminum foils for high frequency effective shielding: This will prevent external noise from getting to the signal conductors, shields the shield of the cable to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) into the ground plane.
• Superior Five-layer isolation, 1st Layer of aluminum foils for High Frequency (HF) Effective shielding. SFS-PE (Foam-Skin Polyethylene) insulated and 2nd layer of copper wire braiding on each individual pairs of twisted wire. This will prevent external noise from getting to the signal conductors, shields the shield of the cable to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) into the signal wires. 3rd Layer of aluminum metal layer for physical isolation between twisted wires and connector. 4th Layer of copper metal for EMI shielding isolation. 5th Layer of lead metal for increase physical mass for anti-shock on HDMI connector.
• Silver Plated Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) 24AWG conductors, 24K gold plated contacts
• HDMI 2.0 standard, 4K@120Hz 18Gbps, HDR and 10bits supported.
• Atoms Supported 32 channels,
• Audio grade I2S HDMI cable for Audiophile I2S DAC recommended. (Denefrips Pontus R2R, Rockna DAC, PS Audio DS)
• High speed low-loss gas-foamed polyethylene insulation: high quality insulation for cables that has less impact on the signal and insulates the conductors well.
• Additional EMI Shielding Material apply on both HDMI connectors to prevent noise goes to TV or I2S HDMI connector.
• 24K Gold Plated commercial grade metal HDMI connectors.
• All hand Made in Hong Kong by AfterDark.

Review:
The AfterDark. Black Magic I2S HDMI cable uses heavy Silver Plated Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) conductors for all 19 of the paths. Currently it outperforms any I2S HDMI interconnect ever made, while it is exceed the all HDMI 2.0b standard. The bandwidth of HDMI 2.1 @ 48Gbps vs HDMI 2.0b @18Gbps which is significantly higher than the clock rates used in even high resolution digital audio and is engineered specifically to handle up to 8K for critical application with highest HDMI specification. 

Electrical interference and EMI is a big issue to deal with in digital signal transmission and the better the shielding to keep these noises out, the better and cleaner the performance of the cables.  

AfterDark. Black Magic I2S HDMI cable, we use exotic EMI shielding material both on metal HDMI Connectors and make use of our signature Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) technology to provide substantial noise reduction in high frequency interference. 

The sound quality on I2S HDMI DAC is simply stunning, high frequency extension very smoothly with full bodies of details presentation. The I2S signal was greatly benefit by CFS technology, the interference on EMI on 4G was further minimized, in returns of much darker background and more deeper on details rendering. 
 

Forum-HiFi.fr:

http://forum-hifi.fr/thread-3062-post-179996.html?highlight=afterdark#pid179996

We have positive comments from one audiophile customer ordering 2 units for Sony A1 4K OLED HDTV:
 

"Video quality is perfect and stunning in its clarity and three dimensionality on HDR, I cannot believe there is such different compared with other HDMI cables. " .

Recent positive feedback from Denefrips Pontus R2R user:
 

"The sound quality of this cable simply unlock the performance on my R2R dac, it sound very balance and comfortable, lots of details at the background, the Carbon Fiber Shielding makes a different, high recommended this I2S HDMI for audiophile"

The story of development

AfterDark. is looking for better solution, when we modified and design the new product line. This product is ideas of optical isolation with use of optical fiber.  So, we tried to build one with heavy modified - AfterDark. NETone. We received a lot of request of all in one solution for network switch, with build in multiple optical isolator, 8 ports network switch, all modules is optimised by OCXO Master Clock, with the best Furutech NCF IEC inlet and build in Black Modernize LPS in carbon fiber chassis. 

Customer impression on NETone.

"I had for two years the Innuos Phonix NET switch. That very hyped switch had lower sound quality than the standard Ediscreation. Comparing it to NETone Hubs, it sound almost ridiculous. I sold the Phonix NET switch immediately." 

"The Trifecta Master Clock is absolutely marvelous. My friend is very happy I pointed him at AfterDark. He just love that clock. All the cables we have bought are superior as well. I just bought three of your BLACK RIVER Giesemann EVA Reference Clock cables, lifted the sound of my Mutec MC3+USB sky-high" 

Why NETone? 

What is so special about this switch? We have perform real listening test and design according to the comments with the use of SFP Single Mode Fiber for optical isolations. By using the best tweaks and sound tuning from Audiophiles. The Giesemann switch turns up with very refined sounding and most natural sounding switch that we ever designed.

The material is special selected and will be used for heavy modded by AfterDark. Making use of Duelund internal cable, ultra low noise AfterDark. Black Modernize LPS for powering Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM). This will be the very first network with two isolated Optical Isolator and 8 ports switch all optimised by three isolated input of OCXO clock signals. This switch can be customized with build in OCXO clock with LPS or power external LPS with external 10M Clock. 

Thanks for the long developement of Giesemann Clock product and we acheived syndication results.  The improvement on sound is very significant and will be outperform most of the switch in the marker without OCXO clock, optical isolation and LPS build in. 

Purchase Link

What are the design features of NETone Hubs?

• Built-in Constallation Network Switch x 25Mhz Clock generated by Giesemann OCXO Clock
• Built-in Optical Isolator x 25Mhz Clock generated by Giesemann OCXO Clock
• Built-in Project Clay X Giesemann OCXO “10M Master Clock”
• Built-in AfterDark. Black Modernize Linear Power Supply 5V x Audio Grade Furutech NCF IEC socket 

 What is the advantages of NETone?

• Built-in 10M OCXO Master Clock makes the sound more relaxed, eliminates the digital feeling, the bass is more refined, the mid-to-treble is sweeter, the details are rich and the elegant micro dynamic analysis style, the background is darker, the feeling is full of vitality, and the sense of space separation increases. The focus is more accurate.

• Due to the use of carbon fiber shielding, the digital signal is darker with rich details.

Specification:

• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate is made of 6mm front / 3mm back thickness of Carbon Fiber Audiophile MAT for EMI shielding and Anti-Resonance for mission critical application for Audiophile Network Switch. The will prevent external noise from getting to the USB signal conductors, and the high performance density of Carbon Fiber Shield to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) and increase stabilization during NAS Music File streaming application.
• Black Modernize Connection Interface Upgrade provide maximum flexibility and enhance Noise Isolated performance with propriety “LAN input for Audio” and “Optical Lan Isolator” for audiophile audio connection.
• Black Constellation (CFS) Optical Fiber Audio Lan Isolator Performance Modules, this Lan Isolator interface is upgraded with 10G SFP CISCO Server Grade Optical Module AOC to provide the best data transfer with much “less error rate” to provide the best audio performance for Lan Isolation application. The Linear Power Supply was used to provide the best audio performance with less signal to noise background. The micro details and soundstage on Hi-Res Audio will improves significantly.
• Audio Note KENSAI Non-Polar Audio Grade Capacitor is used for Audiophile Network Switch, with EMI shielding, enhanced audio performance with propriety Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) Technology and audio application.
• Upgrade with Furutech NCF IEC outlet will be equipped for enhanced music presentation and maximized power conductivity.
• Independent Black Modernize Linear Power Supply will be equipped to eliminate the EMI interference and provide more stable audiophile grade power supply for audiophile network switch.
• Extra anti-absorber material was placed on the connection board, to eliminate the signal noise and better separation to avoid vibration interference for mission critical Audiophile Network Switch application.
• The “Carbonized Screw” was used to fix the position on Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate for Audiophile NAS.
• All hand Made in Hong Kong by AfterDark. 

SELECT GIESEMANN OCXO 10M Reference Grading: 

The OCXO installed in the product can calibrate the products used in industrial equipment for a long time, and use equipment with good characteristics. In order to optimally select the audio clock, we comprehensively evaluate with Symmetricom Flagship 5125A to analysis the phase noise characteristics and short-term stability (Allen dispersion) that can be determinate the OCXO grading accordingly.

The OCXO installed in this product uses a stable OCXO unit that has been calibrated for several months. In order to make the best choice of OCXO. We are conducting a comprehensive evaluation of phase noise characteristics and short-term stability (Allen dispersion) during detailed inspection. 

The final product will final measured and fine tuned with Keysight 53220A with reference to Atomic Clock , GPSDO. 

Choose a base value 
Phase noise: -119 to -113 dBc / Hz or lower at 1 Hz offset (Grades) -137 dBc / Hz or lower at 10 Hz offset

Allan variance short-term stability reference value

[Emperor Giesemann EVA]TAU = 1sec 2.50E-13 or less（0.00025ppb / s）

[Emperor Giesemann] TAU = 1sec 2.78E-13 or less（0.00028ppb / s）
[Emperor Triple Crown] TAU = 1sec 3.8E-13 or less（0.00038ppb / s）

Technical index

• Ultra-low phase noise OCXO 10MHz oscillator (build in or external) 
• Optional BNC cable.
• Input: 10 MHz x 1 system, Sine or Square wave
• Input impedance: 50 ohm 
• Body size: W141mm x D210mm x H90mm 
• Weight about 4.0 kg
• Choice of build in LPS or external DC version 
• 2 years free maintenance warranty
• Design and specifications are subject to change without notice
• Made in Hong Kong  

AfterDark. is coming up with the new ME Collections, the products which is discovered by two Audiophiles who is passion to optimise the audiophile system with their expertise with latest audio components and technologies. 

We believe product should be invented along with Audiophiles and this requires feedback and customer interaction, so the new product can be reflect there specific needs and sound quality. The ME Collections is coming from the initial of well known Audiophile from Mixx and Excxx. The aim of the ME Collections, is to provide a opensource platform for music lover, and audiophiles to explores and research some new solution to improve sounding. The final product will be made to order to specific Audiophiles.  

The product development of ME Collections, will be accelerated as we may have a groups of Audiophile to share their expertises and experience to improve sounding in real life testing. 

There will be more products to include on ME Collections, more exotic Black Modernize modification will be made to order for audiophiles. 

The version will be modified and design to improve sounding with the highly rated network router based on Ubiquiti EdgeRouter ER4. 

This "EdgeRouter ER4 ME Edition" will be the very first model in the world to build in Giesemann Clock Sync Module inside the router while audiophiles can optimised with 10M Reference Master Clock. 

The story behind the ME Edition

We received some special requirement from one high end Audiophile recently and looking for upgrade option on his router. He is currently owned a Mutec Ref10, 10M Master clock with multiple outputs of 10M signals. So, he would like to utlities his investment and looking for audiophile grade router with 10M Master Clock in. He has removed the switch power supply from the EdgeRouter and use Sean Jacobs DC4 for powering and this EdgeRouter is just sounds really nice and belieived that this router has potential to improve. He just want a extra modification with 10M Master Clock Input Module. Would it be possible? he asked. 

Customer: Do you offer a service to modifying existing devices to add clock inputs? The Ubiquiti EdgeRouter ER4 is great as is, would be even better with the clock input of the Mutec Ref10 he asked. 

Adrian : Yes, we are thinking of offering this modication service too. Sure we can modified the EdgeRouter for you. Let me have a look at the motherboard. 

Customer: If you remove the SMPS there is a lot of space. I have mine powered by an Sean Jacobs DC3. I powered it with a 12v rail, but it stock SMPS is output at 22V DC. 

Adrian :  Yes, we can modified and place the Giesemann Clock Sync Module inside, one single 12V DC 2A can power both the motherboards. The new BNC port can be installed at the back of EdgeRouter ER4 and connected to your Mutec Ref10. 

Customer: Let's give me some update when it is ready. External clock input, Floyt Bioploar Audio Capacitors, and EMI Karmet shiedling for the ER4. Thanks. 

Adrian : That would be great to have this product, since we have done this projects with Giesemann Clock Modules, using the best component and make sure it is small enough to be placed in same chassis. 

Draft version - Install a new BNC socket made with 2mm Carbon Fiber

AfterDark. Development ideas: 

• We have some ideas of the new board, a clock synethesis modules turns external 10M OCXO Clock signal into two 25Mhz Clock signal inside the EdgeRouter ER4, we shall make two outputs of 25Mhz, just to make sure it is future proof and provide more flexible to upgrades later on. 
• The DC power module requires to be redesigned for new clock synethesis modules. One 12V for inputs, requires to use arrays of 4 units of LT3045 and Floyt Audio Capacitor from Germany to smoother out the current and optimise the sounding.   
• The DC power modules for Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) will be physically isolated and provide the best isolation for clock module to operated at optimal perfomance with the lowest phase noise. 
• The placement of Giesemann Clock Sync Module will be re-designed and to be placed near the main board of CPU and Lan Chips. 
• The chassis require to modify and place extra DC port and BNC socket and accept external 10M Input 
• A minististic design, which optimised peformance with choices of Giesemann OCXO 10Mhz Reference Master Clock and Giesemann LPS. 
• Single DC 12V LPS is required for EdgeRouter ER4. 
• All internal wire will be using Duelund Audio Cable made from Holland. 
• EdgeRouter ER4 ME Trifecta Extreme Edition will accepting external 10M Reference Master Clock, This version will be place inside the Trifecta Chassis with the carbon fiber and re-designed with the new the carbon fiber input blackplate.  

Draft Version of EdgeRouter ER4 ME Trifecta Extreme Edition 

His impression on EdgeRouter ER4:

"The router has exceeded expectations. With a good clock and good power it is an astonishing improvment in sound quality." by Exoxxx. 

"Lower noise floor, plenty of detail. High precision imaging, while still very musical. I am hearing more spatial resolution. Soundstage is bigger too. Definitely wider and deeper." by Exoxxx

How we design a Trifecta Extreme Edition with Mixx?

1. Improve the outlook which make it more like a audiophile gear
2. We love the ideas of 10M Master Clock Input function of EdgeRouter ER4
3. The device should be powered externally with audiophile grade LPS
4. The power section should be enhanced with more exotic audio capacitors
5. The Giesemann Clock Sync 10M Intput Modules (GCSM) will perform synthesizers 25Mhz independently. this clock signal will be optimised to EdgeRouter ER4. 
6. The units will be powered by 12V LPS externally with DC Socket GX16 2 pins. 
7. The extra ground pole with Audio Note Silver banana connector to connect BLACKICE ground box. 
8. The new panel of LED will be installed at the top with new flat signal cable and all modules should be fit into one single box
9. The internal wire with optimised with Duelund Cable, and solder with Audio Note 
10. The front and backplate will be using Carbon Fiber, top layer with LED indication panel, the bottom later with Router motherboard, Lan port and SFP at very right corner.
11. The flat signal cable need to replaced with 25cm length version.  
12. All the Lan ports inside will be apply with KEMET Corp. EMI Shielding material for eliminate of EMI 
13. The use of SFP Single Mode Optical Fiber will give you another isolation to connect from EdgeRouter to other SFP Switch
14. External 10M Master Clock BNC socket to accept the extrnal 10M Master Clock signal for both Mutec Ref10 and Giesemann Clock accepting Sine and Square wave. 

The Trifecta Extreme Edition can accept 10M Reference Master Clock signal.

The Floyt Audio Grade Biopolar Capacitor will be install on the power section of Giesemann Clock Modules and will be power filering on DC power section. It take quite a long time to burn in. After run-in for 7 days, the soundstage open up and so much airly, the sounding is just more relax and rich representation when we compared. 

Array of LT3035 power regulators x 4 units for smoother current for Giesemann Clock Sync Modules (GCSM) 

Finalizing the Trifecta Extreme Edition with Audiophile Mixx 

Why EdgeRouter needs OCXO optimised?

The OCXO brings a very good sounding EdgeRouter ER4 to other levels. 

"This clock simply adds something that is unreachable in normal switches. It is so calm, fluid and transparent that nothing compares to that. No wonder Jord is installing this clock in his best designs. In short it is my best router too and I can't imagine to listen without it." 

New Giesemann OCXO Module developed for EdgeRouter 

The new designed of Giesemann Clock OCXO 10Mhz Clock Modules can synthesizers with external 10M Master Clock Signal. For example, one EdgeRouter motherboard required to receive two 25Mhz from a Giesemann 10M Master Clock. The latest development version of Giesemann OCXO Modules shall accept external 10M Signal, and provide flexible upgrades vs performance. 

Why EdgeRouter ER4?

What is so special about this EdgeRouter ER4? This ER4 is very sensitive to high quality power supply and clock, which turns out to be very favouritable for us to tune the ER4 to sound much better then before.

• The advancement of CPU for this router make it sas top performance,  this router is extreme high performance on NAT, and VLan. The ER4 is running with modernate heat and very suitable to run 7 x 24 hours. 
• The SFP port on the router is very flexible for us to use optical isolation function to improve sounding when we connect to SFP network switch such as EtherREGEN. 

On Hardware Level: 

The EdgeRouter is using MIPS I6400 Multiprocessor Core. MIPS is a leading developer of highly scalable RISC processor IP for high-end computing and communications application. The core is RISC-V innovation for a new era of heterogeneous processing. 

"Separating the WiFi access point and router functions with VLAN isolation is the most important areas to improve soundings" suggested by Excxx. 

The smoothness and lush sounding is enhancd by the extra low phase noise optimised with Gieseman OCXO. 

The clock is placed near the CPU. The Giesemann Clock Input Module will be bypass the old clock with external Reference Clock 10M. 

The inside of EdgeRouter ER4

The first listening impression on EdgeRouter ER4:

• This EdgeRouter ER4 is the most natural sounding router, there is nothing more on the cleaning on signal, so there is warm, and rich representation. The bass is well controlled and extreme high quality. Music flow is smooth as silk, treble is lush and fill up the listening areas with a lot details and decay. 

We are using the EdgeRouter ER4 in our system after ME suggestion, this router is reference grade product, far exceed expectation and will be the best router we ever used. 

• When we compare to other WiFi router, EdgeRouter is the real performer, the music is real and right at the right places. 
• The Giesemann OCXO start to open up and perform after 3 hours and soundstage is much wider and mid range is so sweet, this may happened because the capacitor inside started to burn in. 
• After 24 hours powers on, playing music via ROON, my first impression is sounding become so fluid and transparent, the characteristics which other network router do not have. The noise floor is so low, so the micro details can fill the listening areas easily. In addition, we found  the bass is more authority, punchy and control. 
• The EdgeRouter ER4 can amplify the improvement with wider soundstage, this may due to re-clocking of the pure network router, which makes it happened. 

Guideline to setup a new router with EdgeRouter ER4?

Login to Admin page: TBC

Access to Admin Page:

eth0: WAN port (Connect to Internet Fiber Modem) / eth1: DHCP port (192.168.1.1/24) (Connect to network switch)

Using Setup Wizards to start using EdgeRouter:

Some reviews from audiophile: 

TBC

Specifications on EdgeRouter ER4:

The Project ClayX Black Modernize will include belows:

1. Upgrade the YAZAKI san Ultimate Ruby MICA Capacitor x 3 Triplets to optimise the DC power sections
2. Upgrade the Duelund Coherent Audio Capacitor JDM Pure Silver Foil for sound tuning 
3. Duelund Silver Audio Grade Cable (Double run inside Mutec MC-3 + USB)
4. Custom made AfterDark. AutophileMAT Carbon Fiber Shielding for EMI and Anti-Shock dumping material for Duelund Capacior 
5. Modification and install GX16 4 pins DC socket with Carbon Fiber Backplate    
6. KAMET EMI Shielding materal apply on CPU at the middle
7. AfterDark. Continental Triple Crown CFS Copper Duelund DC Cable 0.8m (2 Wires Farad GX16 2 pins Editon) for sound optimisation 
8. Farad Super3 LPS SE (Optional Upgrade) 

DIY Kit Set x Elite Upgrade will included the belows: 

1. Duelund Silver Audio Grade Cable x 4 wires 15cm  for double run
2. Duelund Coherent Audio Capacitor JDM Pure Silver Foil for sound tuning x 1 unit
3. Custom made Carbon Fiber for modification and install GX16 4 pins DC socket with Carbon Fiber Backplate  x 1 unit
4. KAMET EMI Shielding material for CPU section  x 1 unit
5. AfterDark. Continental Triple Crown CFS Copper Duelund DC Cable 0.8m (2 Wires Farad GX16 2 pins Editon) for sound optimisation 
6. Farad Super3 LPS SE (Optional Upgrade)  

Purchase Link

It is easy modify the output pins located on the main motherboard. It requires some solder work to allow the Mutec to connect directly with 6V Linear Power Supply. It takes some time, but it is worth to upgrade them. It transfroms a really good Mutec MC-3+USB to another levels. 

The switch power supply is located on the left section of motherboard.  

The procedure to deassemply the switch power supply: 

1. Remove the top cover
2. Remove the all the BNC Screw-In ring at the back of Mutec MC-3+USB
3. Remove the XLR connector releave laver at the back
4. Remove the screw on the motherboard 
5. Unsolder the SMPS power supply, there is two pins of power pins, left one is positive and right one is negative. 
6. Then we can free to apply modification for LPS. 

For advanced solder expert: The SMPS can be remove with professional de-solder station:

1. With proper desolder tools, heating the four feet with some new solder at the pin of the motherboard, one at a time
2. Gently separating each foot from the main board by applying a gentle lever effect. This method can remove the SMPS pin little by little, and finally remove the whole board. 

After remove the switching power supply, it will look like this: 

The two pins at the bottom is DC for 6V. Left one is Positive pole, right one is negative pole. 

The procedure to enhance the Mutec to use 6V DC Farad Super3 LPS:

1. This involves the remove the AC IEC
2. Revised the Carbon Fiber Back Plate with GX16-4 DC connector to the back. The carbon fiber plate is tailor made with thickness of 3mm and fit the orginal window really well, just slide the carbon fiber from the buttom then apply some force to the position, it will fit to the position easily. 
3. Solder the DC Cable (Duelund Silver Cable double runs) to GX16-4 DC connector at the back
4. Solder the DC Cable to Positive and Negative pole to motherboard 
5. Check again the positive pole is connect as below, the pin number is mark on the supplied GX16-4 pin connectors. (1 and 3 is positive / 2 and 4 is negative) 

The Black Modernize Edition will required to send back the Mutec MC-3+USB unit to AfterDark for modification.

Three unit of YAZAKI san Ultimate Ruby MICA Capacitor in parallel (Hand Made by Yazaki san in Japan, Limited Edition for AfterDark.) 

Duelund JDM Audio Capacitor - Pure Silver Foil (Hand Made in Demark) 

Double run on Duelund Silver Cable for DC connection

Custom made 3mm Cabon Fiber / Two layers for EMI shielding and provide anti-shock platform for Audio Grade capacitor. 

The YouTube and listening impression will perfrom next week. 

The reference grade SFP/SFP+ Lan cable will improve the perfromance on data transfer. Since signal transfer is so sensitive to vibration on SFP module, vibration countermeasures are most effective to reduce jitter and improve sound quality. 

The IX2000 is an SFP Direct Attached Cable (DAC) Lan cable,  developed specifically for audio, taking a different approach from SFP optical cables which are "expected to cut noise from upstream" by focusing on the diversity of SFP. The IX2000 uses exotic copper wires for connection, and is designed to "connect SFP-compatible audio devices."

The IX2000 will improve the texture and details of the music and we like the dynamic and very natural and refined sounding. The improvements with IX2000 is immediately noticable during our listening experience when we develop this product , we recommended to mix with the use of Finisar SFP optical fiber to achieve the optimal sounding. 

Why Direct Attached Cable (DAC) is good for Audiophiles?

• A standard RJ45 cable comprises twisted pairs of cables that are accessed by a Bus interface called the PHY (Physical Layer). This is robust and reliable but not optimal for audio use. Twisted pairs are subject to impedance mismatch, speed restriction, pulse infidelity, crosstalk and external interference, all of which can be minimised by good engineering but not entirely negated.
• The IX2000 SFP Direct Attached Cable on the other hand, is constructed and designed to build with tighly controlled impedance, tested to manufacturing at 100 Ohms, without any impedance mismatch. As a result, the sound is much more natural and music is more musical. Most audiophile will hear the presentation is more transparent and alive sounding with much great space and air around everything, it’s not a subtle shift at all.
• The SFP completely bypasses the need for the PHY interface and allows for data stored on the music server with SFP NIC card to be accessed directly, with a commensurate decrease in data errors and loss, improving the sound quality of the overall signal.
• The IX2000 SFP DAC cable comprises of two twisted pairs of silver plated OFC Copper conductors rather than four in an RJ45 cable. The copper conductors is braided shielded twisted and each pair is individually screened and the entire cable is constructed with exacting precision to ensure that the technical benefits of the design are achieved in reality. This makes the IX2000 SFP Lan cable with much higher bandwidth 14Gbps vs 10Gbps. 

• The benefits of improving the data integrity (often referred to as the ‘eye pattern’) is that the demands placed on the decoding hardware are reduced as less reinterpretation and reconstruction work is required, yielding further sound benefits in overall audio quality. 

• IX2000 SFP DAC cable is designed to reflect the requirements of transmitting digital audio where stability and minimising errors are more important than out and out transmission rates. 

• The cable is used between AfterDark. NETone Switch or PA2 fitted with SFP sockets and the matching connections on the Buffalo BS-2016 SFP network switches, creating an ultra-high-quality link between the two devices that is almost wholly immune to outside interference.

• The IX2000 SFP DAC Cable enables to supply the finest connectivity and interface between its components that far outweighs off the shelf alternative connectivity options, delivering performance that simply isn’t possible with less sophisticated network hardware. A plug-and-play solution, the IX2000 SFP DAC Cable can be used with most audio hardware equipped with SFP ports such as Aurender, HiFi Rose, Linn Klimax DSM, Taiko Audio SGM Extreme / Extreme switch, SFORZATO DSP-Columba, DSP-Corvus, DST-Lepus, UpTone EtherREGEN, Mirotik SFP Switch, Cisco SFP Switch, and Intel NIC. 

Purchase Link

Method 1: 

Product details:

• Optimized for New NETone switch with built-in SFP optical bridge connected to a single clean output Ethernet
• Silver plated OFC copper conductors for excellent signal intergrity. 
• Audiophile grade Direct Attach Cable (DAC) for highest quality data trasfer
  • SFPs abstract the connection to the module to support a variety of cable formats, but direct attach cables directly connect SFP ports without conversion in the module. Compared to RJ-45, which needs to support a variety of connections, and optical fiber, which needs to perform optical encoding and decoding, there is no overhead processing, making it an extremely simple and straightforward configuration.

• The four internal cable conductors are made of silver-plated OFC copper solid wire. The structure is designed and built ultiizing a shielded twisted pair construction. 
• Low differential to common mode conversion
• Industry-leading within pair time delay skew
• Ultra low latency for Audio Applications
• Foam perimary insulation utilizes uniform, small cell structure for exceptional performance. 
• Carbon Fiber Woven materal for DAC cable stablization and EMI Shielding. 
• WA-Quantum Chips applied on both SFP connectors. 
• KARMET EMI Shielding material on the side of SFP connectors for extra shielding. 
• Heavy modified with tweaks for sound optimisation 

Carbon Fiber Woven material for EMI Shielding and anti-vibration. 

WA-Quantum Supreme Chips 

The design is based on the unique material on outer layer, selection on USB cable, the wiring arrangement is re-designed for connecting USB Type C, the grounding arrangement and the brand selection on the USB plug will provide the best contact on the USB Port for USB DAC. 

There will be choices of USB A to USB B and USB A to USB Type C  

Purchase Link

Specification: 

• One Layer of Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) woven for EMI shielding and Two Layers of aluminum foils for high frequency effective shielding: This will prevent external noise from getting to the signal conductors, shields the shield of the cable to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) into the ground plane.
• Silver Plated 99.999% Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) conductors
• High speed low-loss gas-foamed polyethylene insulation: high quality insulation for cables that has less impact on the signal and insulates the conductors well.
• Gold plated USB A to B or Tyoe C Connectors.

Review:

• AfterDark Back Lake USB Cable got better sense of space in the sound-stage with exceptional clarity and delicate resolution reproduction. 
• When designing the Black Lake USB Cable, we are very aware of how important a clean ground plane is in digital audio. Because it acts as the reference for every calculation of voltage in the digital audio system, the cleaner you can keep your ground plane, the cleaner your audio will sound thanks to the prevention of significant amounts of jitters and noise. 
• The Black Lake USB is a big step to apply the Carbon Fiber Shielding to keep the ground plane cleaner and eliminate the noise by apply 3 layers of shielding, just to ensure the digital signal is always in optimal level. 
• “Connecting the Black Lake USB brought a depth and timbre to my music that I haven’t heard before” The reviewer after listen to Black Lake USB cable. “Definitely, the Carbon Fiber Shielding do have very positive impact on any digital cables, like USB cable”  
• After applying Carbon Fiber Shielding to the cable, the signal is unchanged in its overall character / signature, but everything just got clearer and more open. There was more space in the sound, both in the overall size of the sound-stage, but also in terms of the space around each instrument / sound. 
• By apply Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS), it improve isolated ground plane allowing every sound to be more accurately rendered by the DAC with no hash / background noise to muddy the end signal.
• Black Lake USB cable can help to prevent noise from reaching your DAC so an audiophile DAC will benefit from a carbon fiber shielding cable upgrade. In fact, any affordable DAC will generally handle noise worse than an expensive DAC so the cable may be even more important.

A SFP Optical Network Card produced by AfterDark. 

gives a significant improvement on sounding

designed based on Project ALPHA program 

with one well respected member in Audiophilestyle.

To honor that moment, we invite all 

Audiophiles to share the happyiness 

 with friends

The one-of-a-kind creation was designed especially for one serious audiophiles in audiophilestyle.com to connect the AfterDark. Trifecta Extreme Giesemann Clock on the audiophile system. The PA6 - Network Sweeter is made by the lastest network chips which supports the Audio/Video Bridging, IEEE 802.1 Audio Vido Bridging (AVB) specification. This feutures the best signal to signal transfer for Audiophiles. The main motherboard and Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) is build inside, were individually working and seperated in single layer on Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT at 3mm thickness for best isolation. The CPU on the motherboard will be applied EMI shielding material in 1.2mm from KAMET Corp to lower the noise floor and make music more transparent. 

These existing arrangement are reconstituted as parts to bring the whole system to another levels. 

" I thought that the SFP Optical Network Card PA6 could only give a marginal SQ improvement. To my surprise my expectations was not only fully met. I really think of the SFP Optical Network Card PA6 as one of the best "bang for the buck" investments I have ever made!!!" Quoted by Ole.

The Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) will either accepts external inputs of 10M Reference Master Clock Signal or works with internal OCXO. Two versions would be made to orders. 

Purchase Link

The SFP Optical Network Card PA6 - Network Sweeter will re-clock by GCSM to provide the best signal from music server atand transfer via SFP optical fiber network switch or Network Music Endpoint. The SFP Optical Network Card PA6 - Network Sweeter not only changes in the overall sounding but brings all micro details and extracted them in precise timing with lowest possible jitter. The PA6 -  Network Sweeter will provide the highest resolution and micro textures of music, making music much refined and sweeter then ever before. 

Audio is very vulnerable to noise. There are many types of noise that can negatively affect audio quality, but the noise that has the biggest impact on computer streaming is EMI, RFI, and impulse noise .

The PA6 - Network Sweeter is equiped with Intel Chipset to support best signal and ultra low time latency with their Audio/Video Bridging Support:

• The network controller features an Intel chip known for its reliability and high-performance capabilities, offering ultra low-latency and low CPU utilization, ensuring smooth and efficient network data transfer, which is critical for audio playback. 

• It also features 9K jumbo frame support, reducing packet overhead for improved data transmission efficiency. VLAN tagging support allows for efficient network management and segmentation.

• The time SYNC (IEEE1588 and IEEE 802.1AS) will address the clock synchronization requirements of measurement and control system, make it ideal choice for Merging NADAC and Merging HAPI MKII or Merging ZMAN to have access of time stamp, with the operation of a PTP (Precision Time Protocol) and compliance with latest 1588 PTPv2 frame format. The PA6- Network Sweeter will always a Master references clock with the use of 10M Master Clock. 

• The PTP network protocol will apply hardware time-stamps to incoming and outgoing Ethernet frames to synchronize the Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) via the PTPv2 to performs clock lock via Merging ARS67 Audio Profile. 

• About PTP residency time stamping

  Precision Time Protocol (PTPv2, IEEE 1588) is a protocol that enables precise synchronization of clocks with a sub-microsecond accuracy across a packet-based network. PTPv2 lets network devices of different precision and resolution synchronize to a grandmaster clock through an exchange of packets across the network. The PA6 is supports a PTPv2 end-to-end transparent clock that is used in the PTPv2 residency time stamping feature.

The 802.1Qav provides a way to guarantee bounded latency and latency variation for time sensitive traffic as Audio. It specifies the priority usage and controlled bandwidth draining algorithms. 

One of the main role of Network Sweeter is to block EMI noise coming from Music Server to Network Music Streamer. RFI noise that enters beyond the sheath is a problem at the cable end, so it can be solved with a optical fiber cable. However, no matter how well shielded a lan cable is, it cannot completely block out RFI noise. 

The SFP Optical Network Card PA6 is a device that uses Optical Fiber with Giesemann OCXO precision clocking  technology to remove RFI noise and impulse noise coming in from cables, and revive or reclocking the LAN signal for Audiophiles system.

The advantage:

• The density in the sound image is increased, the color of the sound is revived, the sound of the singer's breathing, and the lingering sound that lasts until the end improves the sense of space and air, and the tone becomes more vivid and dense, allowing for musical nuances even in digital. Your sensibilities will be revived, and your music will start to sound more musical.

• The sound stage is much wider and opened up with 3D and improved focusing, quietness, clarity, purity, detail, and precision , while OCXO increase the precision and microdetail extraction with more refine backgrounds, the smoothness and microdynamics will be much better represented and created spatial region. 

Why use OCXO Master Clock? 

You will get an improvement in dynamic's, a lower noise floor and more natural flow in the sound.

• For us a OCXO Master Clock is one of the most important factor's in ensuring the best possible sonic platform for any hifi system!

• The Giesemann Master Clock is designed for high precision audio equipment to enhance the integrity of the signal, the top of the line Giesemann OCXO ensure the accuracy of the master clock prodvide a time domain reference for reading data, its transfer and decoding. As a result, the Master Clock could minimize jitter and ensure the improvement on sounding.

• The Giesemann EVA OCXO Master Clock is designed to generate a very accurate, ultra low phase noise 10M Master Clock signal that delivers more accurate transfer and conversion of digital signals.

• The addition of the external 10M Master Clock can improve the soundstage and details of the Music Server, the extraction of details from the background is just amazing and help to achieve optimal music playback with enhanced timbre, full tone, and escpecially pace, rhythm and timing. 

Technical Specification:

• Ultra - Low Noise Linear LT3042 Regulators and filters eliminate the noise interferences from a PC
• Duelund Cable is used to connecting the DC power to Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM)  
• DC Port at 2.1mm (Gold plated) 
• Required to power with external LPS rated at 5V 2A
• Audio Grade Electrolytic, aluminum electrolytic is used for sound tuning 
• 10M Master Clock input of BNC is required to connect to the board for full operation. 
• Master Clock accepts either Square Wave or Sine Wave 
• Choice of impedance of 75 ohms or 50 ohms to choose for 10M input 
• Superior OCXO signal isolation, industrial grade IPEX cable for signal transmittion to motherboard. 1st Layer of aluminum foils for High Frequency (HF) Effective shielding. SFS-PE (Foam-Skin Polyethylene) insulated and 2nd layer of copper wire braiding. This will prevent external noise from getting to the signal conductors, shields the shield of the cable to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) into the signal wires.
• Layer of Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) for EMI shielding, Carbon Fiber protection provide the highest standard of shielding material which mainly used for industrial and most demanding engineer on special project.  
• “Extra Arrangement on Grounding Wire” the grounding braid outside of the 10M cable was connected by IPEX connector for best connectivity on clock signal witin industrial standard. 
• Industrial Version of Intel i210 SFP Ethernet Controller 
• Highest Industrial Grade with wide range of extreme operating temperature -40C to +85C.  
• All Windows editions, MacOS and All Linux OS Supports 
• All x1 - x16 lane PCIe 2.0 to 4.0 slots supported
• All modification hand made in Hong Kong by AfterDark.

For Audiophiles who like to optimise the sound on software levels, the Tips and Tweaks is attached for audiophilestyle's members   

PA6 Sound Tuning Tips and Tweaks for Intel Proset.pdf

A mini SFP Optical Isolator produced by AfterDark. 

gives a significant improvement on sounding

designed based on Project ALPHA program 

with one well respected member in Audiophilestyle.

To honor that moment, we invite all 

Audiophiles to share the happyiness 

 with friends

The one-of-a-kind creation was designed especially for one serious audiophiles in audiophilestyle.com to connect the AfterDark. Trifecta Extreme Giesemann Clock on the audiophile system. The device is made by two motherboards inside that were individually working and seperated in two layers on Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT at 3mm and 1mm thickness for best isolation. These existing arrangement are reconstituted as parts to bring the whole system to another levels. 

The Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) will either accepts external inputs of 10M Reference Master Clock Signal or works with internal OCXO. Two versions would be made to orders. 

Purchase Link

The SFP Optical Isolator or Media Convertor will re-clock by GCSM to provide the best SFP to LAN signal to Music Server or Network Endpoint. The SFP Isolator PA1 not only changes in the overall sounding but brings all micro details and extracted them in precise timing with lowest possible jitter. 

Audio is very vulnerable to noise. There are many types of noise that can negatively affect audio quality, but the noise that has the biggest impact on computer streaming is EMI, RFI, and impulse noise .

The main role of SFP Isolator PA1 is to block EMI noise coming from the lan cable of Router and Music Server. RFI noise that enters beyond the sheath is a problem at the cable end, so it can be solved with a optical fiber cable. However, no matter how well shielded a lan cable is, it cannot completely block out RFI noise. 

Giesemann Reference SFP Isolator PA1 is a device that uses Optical Fiber with Giesemann OCXO precision clocking  technology to remove RFI noise and impulse noise coming in from cables, and revive or reclocking the LAN signal for Audiophiles system.

The advantage:

• The density in the sound image is increased, the color of the sound is revived, the sound of the singer's breathing, and the lingering sound that lasts until the end improves the sense of space and air, and the tone becomes more vivid and dense, allowing for musical nuances even in digital. Your sensibilities will be revived, and your music will start to sound more musical.

• The sound stage is much wider and opened up with 3D and improved focusing, quietness, clarity, purity, detail, and precision , while OCXO increase the precision and microdetail extraction with more refine backgrounds, the smoothness and microdynamics will be much better represented and created spatial region. 

The Audio Note Bi-Polar KENSAI Capacitor will be used for sound tuning 

Connection matrix:

Method 1: Connect the SFP Isolator PA1 to the Lan port of the upstream devices. E.g. Music Server , Internet Router 

Method 2: Connect a SFP Isolator PA1 to the LAN port of the DAC.

Method 3: Dual SFP Isolator PA1

• Connect one SFP Isolator PA1 to the upstream LAN port.
  Then connect another SFP Isolator PA1 to the DAC's LAN port.
  Although the installation cost will increase, the performance of the SFP Isolator will give you the best effect.

Behind the minimise design of the mini SFP Optical Isolator, the internal components and parts is precision apply during the assembly process by soldering the chips with industrial graded signal cable to nearest 1mm, the process illustrating the hand craftsmanship that went into creating this entirely unique devices, which is highly skill intensive and cannot be made in today commercial standand procedure.   

Compataible to most SFP modules including Cisco, Finisar, Sonoro SFPs and UpTone EtherREGEN  

The ultimate CD ripping device is developed for the best experenice on CD ripping to Music Master File.  This model is based on the best Blu-Ray drive in the market - Pioneer S13J-X. The model only avaliable in local Japan store. The Handhartilo seriese is made to order and designed along with high end audiophile for optimise the CD-Ripping process. 

Purchase Link

What is the design behind the “Black Modernize - Handhartilo Series"？

• AfterDark. ClayX SATA III 6Gbps (CFS) Cable
• AfterDark. ClayX SATA (CFS) Power Cable - Made with Duelund Audio cable from Holland. 
• AfterDark. Project ClayX Black Mountain Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT for Pioneer S13J-X
• 4 layers of anti-shock shielding. 1st layer Industrial Anti-Shock Absorber + 2nd layer Anti-Sound Absorber + 3rd layers of 5mm thick Pure Purple Copper + 4th layer AfterDark. Black Mountain Carbon Fiber audiophileMAT 3mm will be placed on the top of the Pioneer S13J-X Blu Ray Drive for optimizing the CD reading performance with ultimate EMI Shielding and Mechanical Shielding for ultimate signal to noise ratio.
• Handhartilo Series Optimized for USB/ eSATA Connection Interface
• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate
• Handhartilo Series build in 12V 80VA Isolating Linear Power Supply
• Optional Gisemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) 10M Master Clock Input Interface for connecting external 10M Reference Master Clock. 
• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate x 4
• AfterDark Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Enclosure Case for Audiophile

AfterDark. Giesemann Clock Sync Modules (GCSM) will further improve the performance on music CD ripping process

The 10M Master Clock input is implemented for optimal CD ripping experiences. 

The industrial grade 5mm Pure Purple Copper is installed on the top of the Pioneer S13J-X 

Specification: 

• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate is made of 6mm front / 3mm back thickness of Carbon Fiber Audiophile MAT for EMI shielding and Anti-Resonance for mission critical application for Audiophile Pioneer S13J-X. The will prevent external noise from getting to the USB signal conductors, and the high performance density of Carbon Fiber Shield to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) and increase stabilization during CD ripping application.
• Black Modernize Connection Interface Upgrade provide maximum flexibility and enhance CD Ripping Noise Isolated performance with propriety USB input for Audio for audiophile audio connection.
• Handhartilo Series Optimized for USB/ eSATA Connection Interface, this connection interface is upgraded for USB Connection, to provide the optimized data transfer with much “time jitter and error rate” to provide the best audio performance for CD Reading application. The Linear Power Supply was used to provide the best audio performance with less signal to noise background. The micro details and soundstage on Hi-Res Audio will improves significantly.
• All of the original parts from Pioneer S13J-X is maintained, with others performance upgrade including the re-allocation of Blu Ray Drive to avoid EMI and vibration interference between the drive and the main motherboard.
• Anti-Vibration Module for Pioneer S13J-X, propriety Anti-shock material was designed for holding the Pioneer S13J-X Blu Ray Drive and eliminate the vibration contact with the Drive  and the enclosure case. The airflow and heat was dispersed around the air space in between this special designed module.
• 4 layers of anti-shock shielding. 1st layer Industrial Anti-Shock Absorber + 2nd layer Anti-Sound Absorber + 3rd layers of Pure Purple Copper + 4th layer AfterDark. Black Mountain Carbon Fiber audiophileMAT 3mm will be placed on the top of the Pioneer S13J-X Blu Ray Drive for optimizing the CD reading performance with ultimate EMI Shielding and Mechanical Shielding for ultimate signal to noise ratio.
• Audio Grade SATA III and SATA Power Cables for Audiophile NAS, with EMI shielding  with propriety technology for audio application.
• Independent Black Handhartilo Series 12V Linear Power Supply, it is equipped with Toroidal Isolating Transformer from “BLOCK-TRAFO.DE” from Germany with EMI filtering and conditioning, to ensure the lowest EMI interference and provide audiophile grade power supply for CD Reading process.
• Extra anti-absorber material was placed on the connection board, to eliminate the signal noise and better separation to avoid vibration interference for mission critical CD Ripping application.
• The “Carbonized Screw” was used to fix the position on Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate for Audiophile CD Ripping device - Pioneer S13J-X.
• All hand Made in Hong Kong by AfterDark.

As you may know, AfterDark. is founded by developing the very first product with Raspberry Pi3+ 1G. We start up the business in a very very small scale, which Adrian is working alone after dark after his daily rountine job in financial industry lately. We found that Raspberry Pi is very interesting product with a lot of combination of sounding with different setup and we gathered a lot of information form audiophiles and start to optimised the sounding in respect to a very unique motherboard from Raspberry Pi3 developed to use in various applications, in very low cost and opensource linux based OS developements.

Then we developed a ultra low noise LPS, a GPIO DC Cable for direct connection to the motherboard, USB cable, Lan Cable, using digital HAT card, adding different Audio Grade Capacitor for sound tuning and we developed a very interesting customer base locally and get some awareness on our very first audio product for all audiophiles. 

This is the very first Pi3 we developed. The copper foil is used for shielding. 

This is surprised for us, we developed a different model of Raspberry Pi3+ 1GB,  Pi4 4GB to the latest Pi5 8GB. The concept has not changed and we hears the sounding is improving from each stage, this is because of developement of CPU, USB, and LAN chips. 

What is I2S?
I2S (Inter-IC Sound Bus) is a bus standard developed by Philips for audio data transmission between digital audio devices. In Philips' I2S standard, it stipulates not only the hardware interface specification, but also the format of digital audio data.

I2S has 3 main signals:

• The serial clock SCLK, also called the bit clock (BCLK), corresponds to each bit of digital audio data, SCLK has one pulse. SCLK frequency = 2 × sampling frequency × number of sampling bits
• The frame clock LRCK is used to switch the data of the left and right channels. If LRCK is "1", it means that the data of the left channel is being transmitted, and if it is "0", it means that the data of the right channel is being transmitted. The frequency of LRCK is equal to the sampling frequency.
• Serial data SDATA is audio data represented by two's complement.

The standard GPIO interface on Raspberry Pi make it very flexible for software and hardware developer to have access the I2S signal for developing different kind of audio HAT. 

TBC.  

This version is made to order for customer to use it on his audiophile system inside the car. 

The native i2S signal will be extracted via GPIO interface on the motherboard

A 2 meter length loaner sample of the new AfterDark (AD) 75 ohm Giesemann EVA BNC-BNC clock cable was evaluated in my two channel stereo system between the AfterDark Emperor Double Crown 10 MHz clock and Uptone Audio EtherREGEN Ethernet switch and between the dCS Puccini U-Clock word clock and dCS Debussy DAC. The AfterDark clock cable was compared to my previous reference clock cable, a Revelation Audio Labs (RAL) Prophecy Cryo-Silver BNC-BNC 75 ohm digital cable (2015 version). The AD loaner clock cable, and a second AD clock cable, were purchased during the evaluation.

The AD clock Cable and the RAL digital cable share some design and construction similarities. Both use an electromagnetic interference (EMI) noise dissipation system based on carbon fiber shielding. Both use extensive mechanical vibration damping systems. The AD clock cables were evaluated after each had been in service for 14 days. AfterDark recommends a 7 day break in period. At the beginning of the AD clock cable evaluation, the AD Emperor Double Crown Clock had been in continuous operation for 37 days.

Figure 1. AfterDark Project ClayX Black River Giesemann EVA 75 ohm clock cable. This is a stiff, mechanically-braced cable. A longer length is advisable to accommodate the 7 inch bend radius. This is also a heavy cable (0.9 lbs./0.408 kg for the 2 meter length). Some support at the connector ends might be advisable to take the strain off the sending and receiving devices' BNC jacks.

Figure 2. I inquired about the manufacturer of Black River cable's BNC connectors. I was told they are a proprietary custom design made for AfterDark. The AD clock cable is directional. The end with the glossy shrink wrap and "AfterDark" logo should be placed at the receiver end. I found the AD cable's BNC connectors to fit much tighter than those of my other BNC cables. I used care when installing and removing, especially on the EtherREGEN switch.

3. The Black River Giesemann EVA's carbon fiber outer shield.

AD clock cable description:

1. One Layer of carbon fiber woven for EMI shielding and two layers of aluminum foil for high frequency shielding. 

2. Silver Plated 99.999% Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) Solid Core conductor.

3. High speed low-loss Ethylene Propylene insulation.

4. The cable is mechanically tuned and twisted with spacing for less cross interference.

5. Proprietary twisted-pair Helix Technology offering superior dielectric performance and mechanical damping. 

6. Gold Plated BNC Connectors.

7. Impedance matched at 75 ohms for Giesemann clocks.

Price: USD $1156 for 2 meter length.

RAL clock cable description:

1. Conductive Carbon Infused Composite (CCIC) outer EMI shielding.

2. Silver 99.999% ultrapure solid silver conductor, cryogenically treated.

3. Furutech rhodium plated BNC connectors.

4. Ceramic micro-spheres for vibration damping.

5. Dual metallic shields consisting of copper and silver plated copper.

6. Large diameter "Big Air" conductor tubes made of Teflon to minimize conductor contact with the dielectric tubing.

7. True 75 ohm impedance.

Price: USD $449 for 1 meter length. [Note this was the pricing for the 1 meter 2015 version. The current version is the 2021 1.25 meter length, priced at USD $599. I did not have a sample of RAL's 2021 75 ohm digital cable for this evaluation. I have had one on order since March 6, 2021.]

Figure 4. RAL 2015 version 75 ohm 1 meter digital cable.

Figure 5. RAL 2015 version 75 ohm digital cable - Furutech BNC connectors.

Figure 6. RAL 2015 version 75 ohm digital cable conductive carbon fiber outer shield.

Part 2. The Sound

For reference, the results of evaluating the sound quality of seven different clock cables with the AD Emperor Double Crown clock were posted here:

The results in the post referenced above will not be rehashed here.

For the AD clock cable evaluation, five configurations, in order of increasing sound quality were evaluated:

1. RAL 2015 version cable between AD Emperor Double Crown clock and EtherREGEN switch and RAL 2009 version cable between dCS Puccini clock and dCS Debussy DAC.

2. RAL 2009 version cable between AD Emperor Double Crown clock and EtherREGEN switch and RAL 2015 version cable between dCS Puccini clock and dCS Debussy DAC.

3. AD Black River cable between AD Emperor Double Crown clock and EtherREGEN switch and RAL 2015 version cable between dCS Puccini clock and dCS Debussy DAC.

4. RAL 2015 version cable between AD Emperor Double Crown clock and EtherREGEN switch and AD Black River cable between dCS Puccini clock and dCS Debussy DAC.

5. AD Black River cable between AD Emperor Double Crown clock and EtherREGEN switch and AD Black River cable between dCS Puccini clock and dCS Debussy DAC.

In summary, the following stereophonic performance improvements were achieved with the AD Black River clock cable compared to the RAL 2015 digital cable:

1. More detail in ambient cues.

2. More bass growl and bass articulation.

3. More fine detail in background percussion instruments, particularly shakers and tambourines.

4. More weight and overtones to piano notes.

5. More of a sense of space between sound images.

6. More weight and solidity to sound images.

The degree of improvement using an AD Black River clock cable was greater when used between the dCS Puccini U-Clock word clock and the dCS Debussy DAC compared to between the AD clock and EtherREGEN switch. The prices of the AD Emperor Double Crown clock and dCS Puccini U-Clock are $2681 USD and $5500 USD respectively. Both clocks serve different functions. The dCS word clock clocks each digital sample (digital "word") of the DAC and digital music player connected to it. The AD clock replaces the internal time reference of the EtherREGEN Ethernet switch with a more accurate, lower noise reference.

Figure 7. One Black River cable was great. Two were greater.

Part 3. Oscilloscope Measurements

Figure 8. A Tektronix TDS 2012 oscilloscope was used to create plots of the time domain and frequency domain characteristics of an RAL 2015 digital cable and the two AD Black River clock cables.

Figures 9 through 17 are oscilloscope plots of the RAL, first AD, and second AD cables connected to the AD Emperor Double Crown 10 MHz clock.

Figure 9. RAL 2015 version cable pulse train from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 10. RAL 2015 version cable pulse from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 11. RAL 2015 version cable noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 12. AD Black River cable #1 pulse train from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 13. AD Black River cable #1 pulse from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 14. AD Black River cable #1 noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 15. AD Black River cable #2 pulse train from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 16. AD Black River cable #2 pulse from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figure 17. AD Black River cable #2 noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the AD 10 MHz clock.

Figures 18 through 29 are oscilloscope plots of the RAL, first AD, and second AD cables connected to the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 18. RAL 2015 version cable pulse train from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 19. RAL 2015 version cable pulse rising edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 20. RAL 2015 version cable pulse falling edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 21. RAL 2015 version cable noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 22. AD Black River cable #1 pulse train from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 23. AD Black River cable #1 pulse rising edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 24. AD Black River cable #1 pulse falling edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 25. AD Black River cable #1 noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 26. AD Black River cable #2 pulse train from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 27. AD Black River cable #2 pulse rising edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 28. AD Black River cable #2 pulse falling edge from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Figure 29. AD Black River cable #2 noise spectrum (Fast Fourier Transform) from the dCS Puccini word clock.

Part 4. Notes On Power Quality

I live in an area that has good power quality with stable voltage levels (118V - 121V over a 24-hour period) and low total harmonic distortion (average 1.5% over a 24 hour period. My two channel stereo system is served by three dedicated 20 amp AC circuits. Each dedicated AC circuit is terminated by a PS Audio Soloist SE which is an in-wall passive power conditioner coupled with an audio grade PS Audio Power Port Premier AC receptacle. Two of the dedicated AC circuits feed the Pass Labs X600.5 monoblock amplifiers. The third AC circuit feeds a PS Audio P10 AC regenerator which has an average outgoing total harmonic distortion of 0.1% and outgoing voltage of 121V on average. The P10 AC regenerator feeds the Pass Labs XP-30 preamp, source components, switches, and clocks. I have found it is much easier to discern differences in cables, source components, and accessory electronics, like switches and clocks, when the AC power quality is very high (stable voltage and very low total harmonic distortion).

Part 5. Associated Equipment

Bryston BDP-3 Digital Player

dCS Debussy DAC

dCS Puccini U-Clock Word Clock

PS Audio PowerBase Isolation Platforms For BDP-3, Debussy DAC, P-10 AC Regenerator, And Puccini U-Clock

Black Diamond Racing Mk3 Mini Isolation Pits And Mk4 Isolation Cones For BDP-3, Debussy DAC, And Puccini U-Clock

Pass Labs XP-30 Line Level Preamplifier

Pass Labs X600.5 Monoblock Power Amplifiers

Synology DS718+ Network Attached Storage With Two Western Digital Red 6 TB Drives in RAID 1 Configuration

TeraDak DC-150VA Linear Power Supply For DS178+ NAS

Uptone Audio EtherREGEN Ethernet Switch For NAS And Digital Player

Farad Super3 Linear Power Supply For EtherREGEN

Araknis AN-110-SW-R8 Ethernet Switch For Connectivity To Home LAN

Revelation Audio Labs Prophecy Cryo-Silver Split Configuration USB Cable (CICC)

Revelation Audio Labs Passage Cryo-Silver DB-25 Power Umbilicals For XP30 Preamp

Revelation Audio Labs Cat8+ Ethernet Cables, 1.25m, For BDP-3 To EtherRegen And NAS To EtherREGEN

Revelation Audio Labs Prophecy CryoSilver Reference S/PDIF Digital Link Cable (CCIC) - U-Clock To Debussy DAC - RCA Terminations (Audio Signal)

AudioQuest Sky Generation 2 XLR Interconnects

AudioQuest Everest 9 AWG Hyper-Litz Speaker Cables

PS Audio PerfectWave AC-12 Power Cords For Amplifiers And Source Components

Signal Cable MagicPower Cord For TeraDak DC-150VA Linear Power Supply

PS Audio PerfectWave P-10 AC Regenerator (For Source Components And Preamplifier Only)

Polk Audio SDA SRS 1.2TL Loudspeakers (Heavily Modified)

Dreadnought Non-Common Ground Interface (Avel-Lindberg Audio Grade 1000VA Isolation Transformer) For SDA SRS 1.2TL Loudspeakers

HiFi Tuning Supreme Power Line Fuses For Debussy DAC, P-10 AC Regenerator, Puccini U-Clock, BDP-3 Digital Player, and Super3 Linear Power Supply

Salamander Synergy Triple 30 Audio Credenza

Dell Venue Pro 7140 Docked Tablet Computer For Controlling BDP-3 Digital Player, NAS, And AC Regenerator

Three Dedicated 20 Amp AC Circuits, One For Each Power Amplifier, One For The Source Components, AC Regenerator, And Preamplifier

Three PS Audio Soloist SE In-Wall Passive Power Conditioners, One For Each Dedicated AC Circuit

This is the new flagship music library, based on Soundgenic Plus, the Handhartilo Series has undergone re-engineer and heavy modifcations from the basic configuration. The "made to order" experience will make everything possible for customer requirements. This designed is always comes from Audiophile's mind. The ALPHA Project will provide the platform to satisfied the specification for ultra high end customer. The experience we achieved to build KARMANN Music Server is applied to the design on new flagship music library. 

The devices is very first we ever design and build in 2024 and this may be the first device ever seen in the market with this speicifcation. 

More information on Soundgenic NAS Plus

Purchase Link

Two 2.5mm DC socket for connecting external LPS / 10M Master Clock Input for Sound Optimisation. 

Pioneer S13J-X Flagship Blu Ray driver for automatic CD Ripping to NAS on SSD as Master Music FLAC 

Features

• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate is made of 6mm front / 3mm back thickness of Carbon Fiber Audiophile MAT for EMI shielding and Anti-Resonance for mission critical application for Audiophile NAS. The will prevent external noise from getting to the USB signal conductors, and the high performance density of Carbon Fiber Shield to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) and increase stabilization during NAS Music File streaming application
• Independent Black Modernize 12V Linear Power Supply (LPS) is to eliminate the EMI interference and provide more stable audiophile grade power supply for NAS.
  • Two LPS is required for best isolation on Soundgenic and Pioneer S13J-X (Sold separately) 
• Equipped with 10MHz external clock input 

• Equipped with a Samsung EVO 860 SSD (3.8TB)
• Equipped with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports
• Black Modernize Connection Interface Upgrade provide maximum flexibility and enhance NAS Noise Isolated performance with propriety LAN / USB input for Audio and Optical Lan Isolator for audiophile audio connection.
• All of the original parts from I-O Data Soundgenic HDL-RA2HF is maintained, with others performance upgrade including the re-allocation of HDD /SSD to avoid EMI and vibration interference between the drive and the main motherboard.
• Anti-Vibration Module for HDD/SSD, propriety Anti-shock material was designed for holding the HDD/SSD and eliminate the vibration contact with the HDD and the enclosure case. The airflow and heat was dispersed around the air space in between this special designed module.
• AfterDark. Project ClayX SATA III and SATA Power Cables for Audiophile NAS, with EMI shielding performance for audio application.
• AfterDark. Black Constellation (CFS) Optical Fiber Audio Lan Isolator Performance Modules, this Lan Isolator interface is to provide the best data transfer with much “less error rate” to provide the best audio performance for Lan Isolation application. The Linear Power Supply was used to provide the best audio performance with less signal to noise background. The micro details and soundstage on Hi-Res Audio will improves significantly. 
• Internal DC power cable to connect I-O Data motherboard is from Duelund Cable with Audio Note Ag Solder
• Extra anti-absorber material was placed on the connection board, to eliminate the signal noise and better separation to avoid vibration interference for mission critical NAS application.
• The “Carbonized Screw” was used to fix the position on Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate for Audiophile NAS.
• All hand Made in Hong Kong by AfterDark.

Modular design with Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT EMI shielding 

What is included in “Black Modernize - Handhartilo Series” modification？

• AfterDark. ClayX SATA III 6Gbps (CFS) Cable
• AfterDark. ClayX SATA (CFS) Power Cable
• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate x 4
• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Connection Interface on Power IEC socket at the back plate
• KARMET EMI Shielding on all USB / Lan /SATA III connectors
• AfterDark. Performance Tweak with WA Quantum Chip on CPU of I-O Data Soundgenic PLUS
• AfterDark Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Enclosure Case for Audiophile

Flagship Pionner S13J-X is build in with heavy modifications sand Audiophile's tweaks. 

AfterDark. Project AudiophileMAT enhancer 

The Pionner S13j-X will be stablized with 5mm thick copper plate in 150mm x 150mm and 3mm Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT. 

Diretta Host Function is activated in Soundgenic Setting

AfterDark. Diretta NS1 is plug and play and shows as USB DAC : AfterDark._Bridge_XXXX

AfterDark. is looking for better solution, when we modified and design the new product line. Since we become Sponsored in Audiophilestyle.com, we meeting a lot of old friends where they shares their way to improve sounding with the highly modified network switch. We remember I have a night to visit Hols's place in Hong Kong, when we are dealer for Denafrips R2R DAC. @Hols is a well known audiophile in Hong Kong.  Therefore, after reading the below sharing, he is using Buffalo BS-GS2016 in Cascade connected with SFP Optical Fiber cable. So, we tried to build one with heavy modified - AfterDark. Project ClayX Giesemann OCXO Black Modernize Edition 

His impression on Buffalo BS-GS2016 Cascade OCXO.

"I would prefer the 2016 than the S100 because of its richer presentations. Using one 2016 already gives you the same character but using two is definitely a revelation. Everything just seems to be present around you. The presence is much better with two 2016." by Hols

Why Buffalo BS-GS2016?

What is so special about this switch? We are selling DELA S100 Switch and modified version. Just looking at the two motherboard, DELA S100 is using the same motherboard as Buffalo BS-GS2016. This make us quite curiosity on how to improve Buffalo BS-GS2016.  So, we purchase two units from Japan market and see how Buffalo BS-GS2016 compared with DELA S100 (Estimate Price USD1600). So, let us open the metal box and have a look. This will be a steal if the performance is comparable with DELA S100. Will GS-2016 Cascade outperform vs DELA S100? And how good will the BS-GS2016 OCXO optimized?

Purchase Link for Buffalo BS-GS2016 Giesemann Edition:

***For existing Buffalo BS-GS2016 user, we will have upgrade option for full service of modification up to Giesemann Edition.

"There is an easiness in the sound and everything come up so sure so accurate and fluent. There is no hint of any slowness or muffled sound or harshness that are sometimes associated with over-cleansing. And can I take out the SOtM? Yes I can and still live very happily with the sound. There is only very slight diminished high frequency only noticeable on critical listening."

"Overall very impressed with the clock-modded 2016." by Hols

There is large silver heat sink at the middle, and the switching power supply at the right corner. The motherboard is secured with more than 13 screws. The LED indicator board is at the top right. We trying to locate the 25Mhz clock under the heat sink...

DELA S100 is quite amazing network switch, it is very well made with the heavy and good looking chassis, it sound really good when we compared with other switch.

Let's compare with DELA S100 with open box now. 

This version is AfterDark. Black Modernize Edition with modified capacitor by Floyt Germany with Carbon Fiber replace the aluminium top plate.  

The internal cable is replaced with Dueland Audio Cable. As you see their is extra Capacitor section compared with the Buffalo GS-BS2016. We replaced the Japan capacitor with larger Floyt Audio Capacitor from Germany.

We can now confirm the motherboard of DELA S100 is the same as Buffalo GS-BS2016. Someone may noticed that the DELA S100 is only with 8 ports, which is different to Buffalo GS-BS2016 having 16 ports. Actually DELA S100 actually hide the top 8 ports nicely with the back plate and was disabled those port in admin page. The LED can be switch off to eliminate noises. The DELA S100 has external DC port which allow customer to use their Linear Power Supply (LPS) to power them in 12V 1A 

So we are quite excited to open up the large heat sink and have a look what is inside. 

The inside is opened,  both Buffalo GS-BS2016 and DELA S100 is using BROADCOM BCM53343A, the internal clock is near the silver Broadcom. The excessive size of Aluminium heat sink is good to work 24x7 in commercial. As you may know, the lower the heat, the music representation will be more relax and laid back.

The rich representation on sounding and lush airly high may be due to proper sofware implementation and high specification on motherboard,  and using a very low jitter re-clock high performance switch with BROADCOM BCM53343A. 

How we design a modified Buffalo GS-BS2016?

1. Improve the outlook which make it more like a audiophile gear
2. We love the ideas of Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016
3. The device should be powered externally with audiophile grade LPS
4. The power section should be enhanced with more exotic audio capacitors
5. The Giesemann OCXO 25Mhz will be optimised to Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016, the power supply will be independent powered with Linear Power Supply, this can avoid the interference further. The Giesemann Clock will be in module, to supply the cleanest clock signal to the board. 
6. Two of the Buffalo GS-BS2016 should be fit into one single box
7. The internal wire with optimised with Duelund Silver Cable, and solder with Audio Note 
8. The chassis will be using Carbon Fiber to tailor made for fitting two motherboard at once, or there will be single version of Buffalo GS-BS2016. 
9. The use of SFP Single Mode Optical Fiber will give you another isolation to connect Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016
10. The additional functions may utilised the function of Giesemann Clock Module to output 10M Master Clock for connecting Mutec MC3-USB
11. The EMI shielding from KAMET corp. will apply to the RJ45 ports
12. Enhancement on Industrial Grade Thermal material from Shin-Etsu  (Made in Japan) will apply to CPU again.

This is the first version with tailor made 3mm Carbon Fiber material from Japan. It provide the best isolation from external EMI when compared to Aluminium. It simply eliminated the trouble of stacking the two metal case of Buffalo GS-BS2016.

By using the larger chassis, this make modification and enhance more easily. This MIFLEX Audio Capacitor is over sized at 70mm x 40mm and placed on DC power section. It take quite a long time to burn in. After run-in for 7 days, the soundstage open up and so much airly, the sounding is just more relax and rich representation when we compared with other switch.  

The KEMET Aluminium Capacitor is another big plus to improve the micro details and darkness.

Miflex KPCU-01 Copper Foil Paper / Polypropylene in Oil

"Check out the new Miflex caps, the copper version are amazing.  I've been replacing all of the coupling and/or output caps in all my amps from the Jupiter copper to the Miflex caps.  IME the Miflex have better tonal density, more punch, more detail and present a blacker background.  In almost every respect that I care about, the Miflex are a serious step up. "

Do Buffalo GS-BS2016 needs OCXO optimised?

We have same impression with member @Cool_Chris, the OCXO brings a very good sounding Buffalo GS-BS2016 to other levels. 

"This clock simply adds something that is unreachable in normal switches. It is so calm, fluid and transparent that nothing compares to that. No wonder Jord is installing this clock in his best designs. In short it is mine best switch too and I can't imagine to listen without it." 

New Giesemann OCXO Module developed for Buffalo GS-BS2016

The new designed of Giesemann Clock OCXO 10Mhz Clock Modules can synthesizers any frequency from 1-100Mhz. For example, two Buffalo motherboard required to receive two 25Mhz from a Giesemann 10M Master Clock. 

Features 

• The product uses the selected audio grade SC cut OCXO, and through long-term calibration to select and install equipment with excellent stability.
• Ultra High Quality Large Factor 5151 SC Cut OCXO, very low phase noise and frequency stability compared to others small size OCXO specification 
• SC Cut refers to stress compensated (SC) cut crystal resonators, which is more advance on performance of Frequency Vs Temperature changes, longer Crystal Aging. The pro is expensive to made and size is larger then normal OCXO. 
• Then Large Factor size 5151 is around 5cm x 5cm dimension vs small factor 3cm x 2cm, 2 times bigger with better phase noise performances. 
• OCXO are available in tailor made on various audio frequencies on special request. 
• The module can be used on motherboards, and network switch, where the common frequency is 24 and 25 Mhz oscillators. 
• Every Giesemann OCXO Clock (GOC) Modules is square wave out and thus quite suitable for direct connection for Network Switch, Motherboard, USB, Audiophile Network Card. 
• EMI material from KEMET EMI Shielding is placed on top of OCXO, to isolate EMI factors for maximizing OCXO performance . 
• Carbon Fiber material top cover, solid anti-vibration to provide solid EMI/ magnetic coverage.
• Advanced instrument Symmetricom 5125A calibrated with plotted characteristics. The phase noise, and Allen Derivation defines different grades of the OCXO. 
• Available frequencies: 20Mhz / 22.569Mhz / 24Mhz /24.576Mhz /25 Mhz or customize rate from (1-100Mhz) 
• Total 2 channels per module. For example: OUT1: 25Mhz OUT2: 25Mhz 

Ipex Shielding Cable to transmit the 25Mhz clock signal from Giesemann Clock to Buffalo GS-BS2016 

The crimp terminal Cu/Zn/Ag - HELLA from Germany , the best contact point for power supply for Giesemann Clock Module

AfterDark. Black Modernize R-Core Transformer power supply 

• This device is designed to operate with R-Core Transformer for power supply. 

• The Module will come with 35W R-Core Transformer is Audio Grade with great dynamic and provide stable 15AC voltage for the Linear Power Supply (LPS).
• The power section is design with Ultra Low Noise LDO low-phase voltage LT1963 for the first voltage.
• LDO + Ultra Low Noise / low-phase voltage LT3045 for the second voltage
• We believe the better the power supply , the Giesemann clock will perform much better with music flow, so smooth which makes music more organic with authority on BASS. 

Phase Noise

Giesemann OCXO Clock have two grades to choose, the specification is better than Pink Faun Ultra OCXO (Phase Noise -130 dBC at 10Hz)

The Giesemann OCXO Clock Module is greatly benefit with independent Linear Power Supply and located away from the Buffalo motherboard. Therefore, the phase noise is much better when compared with Paul Faun modules requires the power fitting from motherboard, which creates create interference with power noises. 

AfterDark. Project ClayX Constellation SFP Module + Single Mode optical Cable

AfterDark. Project ClayX Cisco SFP+ Optical Cable connecting two Buffalo GS-BS2016

The first listening impression on Buffalo GS-BS2016:

• This switch is the most natural sounding switch, there is nothing more on the cleaning on signal, so there is warm, and rich representation. Music flow is smooth as silk, treble is lush and fill up the listening areas with a lot details and decay. 
• When we compare to DELA S100, sound is more polite, when compared to Buffalo GS-BS2016. On the other hands, Buffalo is on the real performer, the music is real and right at the right places. 
• The Giesemann OCXO start to open up and perform after 3 hours and soundstage is much wider and mid range is so sweet, this may happened because the capacitor inside started to burn in. 
• After 24 hours powers on, playing music via ROON, my first impression is sounding become so fluid and transparent, the characteristics which other switch do not have. The noise floor is so low, so the micro details can fill the listening areas easily. In addition, we found  the bass is more authority, punchy and control. 
• The Cascade of Buffalo GS-BS2016 can amplify the improvement with wider soundstage, this may due to re-clocking of the switches, which makes it happened. 

Some reviews from audiophile: 

"The SR7 and Buffalo are still running in - however there is an obvious improvement in the quality of the sound produced already. The flow of music seems more liquid, greater sense of space particularly on live recordings and the dynamic range appears to be extended." by dctom

"But the true game changer in my system was the addition of Pink Faun Ultra clocks to the Buffalo 2016Lets call it PFU Buffalo. Nenon was the first to try to use this clock in Buffalo 2016 switch and he really likes it.He was stacking them for better results upto 6 of them. Austinpop (Rajiv) was tesing this switch (PFU Buffalo borrowed fron Nenon) extensively and it was a clear winner in his precise testing Against the other switches he had including Sotm . Additionally Nenon retested PFU Buffalo against the Telegartner M12 and he would still prefer the PFU Buffalo (60%) than Telegartner M12(40%).That is a very good news ." by KRIS

To give you the real audition, we shall record some YouTube in 2-3 days.  

To be continue....

The very first SFP Network Enhancer which build in 10M Master Clock Sync Module for Audiophile.

We performed real listening test and music playback is approaching perfection, it is so much refine and organic with S1 and Giesemann EVA OCXO Reference Master Clock.  

The design is based on the unique material on shielding layer, selection on Carbon Fiber, the product research and development on Giesemann OCXO product since 2021. AfterDark. take a further step to design the world's first audiophile network card which can accepting 10M Master Clock input for Audiophiles who would like to paid extraordinary attention to the master clock arrangements (as well as providing developed clocksync and external reference clock options for EtherREGEN) to minimize timing error to unprecedented levels. 

The AfterDark. Constellation Giesemann SFP Optical Network Enhancer is designed for Audiophile using MAC or Intel PC NUC Music Server, equiped with external Thunderbolt 3 or 4 connections.

The SFP Optical Network Enhancer will make use of the new technology made by Intel Thunderbolt4 Chipset to provide the streaming fast, simple and most reliable connection for Audiophile application. For example, the SFP Network Enhancer can utilise the Thunderbolt 4 port in MAC mini to extend the possibilities to use Intel I350 S1 DUAL SFP Ethernet Server Adapter with external connection via single Thunderbolt cable. 

The connection to the Thunderbolt 4 will be plug and play, the Intel based Thunderbolt and SFP NIC driver will be native support for M1 or M2 MAC and Intel based Windows.  The connection will be ready within 3 seconds sync time. 

Purchase Link for SFP Optical Network Enhancer

What is Thunderbolt 4 Technology?

Get the most from Thunderbolt 4 Technology?

The SFP Optical Enhancer will transform the Mac Mini to use SFP optical fiber connection for sound optimisation.

The quality of the Network Card is crucial to deliver the optimal sounding for Music Server, which ensure the smoothness of music data at the very first transfer via Network. The Constellation Giesemann is designed along with the mind that temperature perturbation, vibration shock, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) may cause some effect on high precision OCXO inside a Music Servers. The chassis inside the Music Server is heavily polluted by EMI noises from CPU, RAM, SSD. So the ultimate or ideal solution is to separate the OCXO physically in a separate chassis if possible. 

The Giesemann Clock Sync motherboard is located at the middle and mounted on Carbon Fiber audiophileMAT to maximise the performance for Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) for Constellation Giesemann Network Card. The grounding arrangement and 5V DC port slot is located on the bottom of the PCIe card to provide the best electronic contact for the clock module. 

The Constellation Giesemann SFP Optical Network Enhancer is balance in sounding, no excessive mid and bass. The mid-range is sweet and background is full of darkness with trace of micro details. Soundstage is deep and instrument opened up nicely on music, the bass is just right. Overall Constellation Giesemann Network Card is very musical, airly and provide the state of art resolution in music. 

What is special about SFP Optical Network Enhancer?

• The SFP Optical Network Enhancer make use of the optical transfer and physically blocking the electrical noise from network switch that distorts the audio signal from your network and reduce noise floor and interference. 

• It is pefect for you if you are using a wired connection and want to change to SFP fiber connection to reduce / minimise networ noise or reduce jitter over long distance data transfer with use of optical fiber. 

• The SFP Optical Network Enhancer has a zero-noise design and galvanically-isolated inputs to reduce digital jitter and overall system noise. 

• Galvanic Isolation optimised, where electrical circuits are saparated to eliminated stray currents. Audio signal can pass between galvanically isolated circuits to block differences in ground potential or currents induced by AC power. 

• The SFP Optical Network Enhancer is tailor made to use 10M Master Clock to optimise sounding.  Audiophile can make use of their 10M Master Clock to provide the master sync for the audiophile system. Using the single Master Clocking system can achieve the best possible sound quality for both Roon Server on NIC and Switches and Network Player. Improves music playback from Roon (Tidal, Qobuz) and files on local network. 

• 10M Master Clock Signal can be either Square Wave or Sine Wave
  • Full supports for all AfterDark. Giesemann Master Clock, Mutec Master Clock and Cybershaft Master Clock 
  • 50 ohms or 75 ohms input version can be choose when order.  

• The Standard Version of BNC port is used to input external 10M Master Clock. This arrangement and design would ensure Audiophile can use their very best exotic BNC Clock cable without any BNC to SMA adaptor which may caused loss of information in clock signals. Incredible sound quality improvements for any music server.  

• The Enterprise level high quality Intel I350 Ethernet Controller is used. The chipset is the new generations of I350, the heat is much lower and lower powered. Lower heat means lower noise floor and smoother sounding. The hardware of Intel i350 is well known to provide much better stability and this can provide the best support for operating system: Windows (all editions and Linux of UBuntu, Snakeoil). Plug and Play of any PC with PCIe slot. 

• Audio Grade Electrolytic, aluminum electrolytic is used for sound tuning 

The S1 Dual SFP NIC is build in the Carbon Fiber Chassis  

• The power section of Gisemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) is separated linear power supply. It eliminates computer as source of powers. For lowest noise and best sounding using Farad Super 3 power supplies. 

• Two audiophile grade SFP network ports support 1G SFP connection speed.  Audiophile can make use of software network bridge function to connect one port for incoming data from router and other port to connect the music streamer directly. The noise floor will be much quieter and details on background will improves. 

The Giesemann OCXO Master Clock ensure best performance for sound optimisation.

Why use OCXO Master Clock? 

You will get an improvement in dynamic's, a lower noise floor and more natural flow in the sound.

• For us a OCXO Master Clock is one of the most important factor's in ensuring the best possible sonic platform for any hifi system!

• The Giesemann Master Clock is designed for high precision audio equipment to enhance the integrity of the signal, the top of the line Giesemann OCXO ensure the accuracy of the master clock prodvide a time domain reference for reading data, its transfer and decoding. As a result, the Master Clock could minimize jitter and ensure the improvement on sounding.

• The Giesemann EVA OCXO Master Clock is designed to generate a very accurate, ultra low phase noise 10M Master Clock signal that delivers more accurate transfer and conversion of digital signals.

• The addition of the external 10M Master Clock can improve the soundstage and details of the Music Server, the extraction of details from the background is just amazing and help to achieve optimal music playback with enhanced timbre, full tone, and escpecially pace, rhythm and timing. 

The Thunderbolt 4 cable in black is connected to a Intel Laptop to make use of Cisco AOC SFP fiber cable to audiophile switch for sound enhancement.  

Purchase Link for SFP Optical Network Enhancer

Technical Specification:

• Ultra - Low Noise Linear LT3042 Regulators and filters eliminate the noise interferences from a PC
• Duelund Silver Cable is used to connecting the DC power to Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM)  
• DC Port at 2.5mm 
• Required to power with external LPS rated at 12V 3A
• Audio Grade Electrolytic, aluminum electrolytic is used for sound tuning 
• 10M Master Clock input of BNC is required to connect to the board for full operation. 
• Master Clock accepts either Square Wave or Sine Wave 
• Choice of impedance of 75 ohms or 50 ohms to choose for 10M input 
• Superior OCXO signal isolation, industrial grade IPEX cable for signal transmittion to motherboard. 1st Layer of aluminum foils for High Frequency (HF) Effective shielding. SFS-PE (Foam-Skin Polyethylene) insulated and 2nd layer of copper wire braiding. This will prevent external noise from getting to the signal conductors, shields the shield of the cable to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) into the signal wires.
• Layer of Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) for EMI shielding, Carbon Fiber protection provide the highest standard of shielding material which mainly used for industrial and most demanding engineer on special project.  
• “Extra Arrangement on Grounding Wire” the grounding braid outside of the 10M cable was connected by IPEX connector for best connectivity on clock signal witin industrial standard. 
• Industrial Version of Intel i350 SFP Ethernet Controller 
• Highest Industrial Grade with wide range of extreme operating temperature -40C to +85C.  
• All Windows editions, MAC and Linux OS Supports 
• All Thunderbolt 3 or 4 supported
• All modification hand made in Hong Kong by AfterDark.

For Audiophiles who like to optimise the sound on software levels, the Tips and Tweaks is attached for audiophilestyle's members:

S1 Sound Tuning Tips and Tweaks for Intel PROSet Adapter Configuration Utiltiy .pdf

The main motherboard is installed and newly developed Diretta Lucia. This is the world's first product to be equipped with the latest module called Lucia Shakerato, with much faster processing power and LAN chips. The NS1 is the product developed by AfterDark with sound tuning on both the hardware and Diretta Host software, this will make music much more musical and enjoyable. 

Information on Diretta

Purchase Link

What is the special about Diretta Network Bridge Mini NS1 ?

On Hardware Levels:

• The motherboard is heavily tweaked and removed all the parts which is not used for audiophile for EMI noise reduction
• 5V 2A input with 2.1mm DC socket, to enhance the listening pressure with high quality LPS
• USB DAC supports for all models which runs Windows / Linux with XMOS USB generic drivers
• Three USB ports, which can connect ro three USB DAC at the sametime. Software selectable on Diretta Host Setting. 

On Software Levels: 

• The diretta license and FW is included inside the motherboard.  
• Plug and Play to audiophiles.
• AfterDark. Diretta Host Software will be provide under the software below, and only can only be used to activated with AfterDark. Diretta Target. 
• Windows OS / Linux Version for Diretta Host 
• After Installed Diretta Host, the USB DAC will be Roon Ready / HQPlayer Ready via Diretta 
• Thousand of mix and combination setting of parameters for different sound tuning for audiophiles systems. 

AfterDark. Black Modernize LPS is recommended for Diretta NS1

AfterDarkASIOdriver_1_100_0.msi

The Background of Diretta 

Why most electric noise is hard to filter at the network?

• Most of the switch can reduce the power- supply noise generated by DC-DC conversions. Using some Audio Capacitor near the DC sources, can reduce some noises. 
• Some circuit designer may apply some low-pass filters and reduct splike like digital-specific noises.
  • However, we it will harm the sound, it is because the filter may filter out some missing information, that is not actually a noise at all, for example, the white noise, which have some extra information to the background, which make music more organic.
  • This may make music digital and harsh as a result of too much filters.

It is absolutely difficult to electrically eliminate the noises. Diretta is going to solve this problems in 2 steps...

An intergrated Diretta Device with DDC + Diretta ASIO protocol network optimization 

Diretta ASIO optimised and reduce network noises?

• Averaging the network processing, moderated the power consumption and current. 
• Use of Target and Host Server concept to reduce network traffic 
• The Host (Roon Music Server) sync the Target device, with more packets at short time intervals, to average out the peak traffic, the transmission is controlled by setting the Target buffer. i.e less electric use, with less noise during transfer
• The preset profile amd ASIO Buffer can be use to fine tune the sounding.  
• We perform testing on Cascade of Buffalo BS-GS2016, the result is just amazing.
• Huge improvement on music playback with HQPlayer x Roon x Diretta ASIO

Playback app audio setting for Roon 

Enable "AfterDark. Diretta Mini NS1" in Settings -> Audio 

Diretta Mini NS1 is Roon Ready device on network

Testing Enviroment : Fidelizer Pro 8.8 x HQplayer x AfterDark. Diretta ASIO x Roon x MinorityClean 235 running on Windows Server 2022 Datacenter OS

AfterDark. Partners with Fidelizer Pro for optimization for Diretta ASIO x ROON x HQPlayer 

We will have group buy for Audiophilestyle.com member for purchase of latest Fiderlizer Pro 8.8 next week…

The result for DSD 11.2Mhz / 22.5Mhz is just amazing, all the infomation is transforming smoothly to DAC

HQPlayer upsampling to poly-sinc-ext, AMSDM7 512+fs, DSD512 via AfterDark. Diretta ASIO to Gustard X26 Pro, decoding DSD512 DoP at DSD 22.5Mhz.  

E.g. The filtering setting for HQplayer, choosing output ASIO device = AfterDark. Diretta. Then Roon is ready to go, and upsimpling via HQplayer. 

Specification:

• Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate is made of 6mm front / 3mm back thickness of Carbon Fiber Audiophile MAT for EMI shielding and Anti-Resonance for mission critical application for Audiophile Network Switch. The will prevent external noise from getting to the USB signal conductors, and the high performance density of Carbon Fiber Shield to further prevent the ingress of noise (RFI, etc.) and increase stabilization during NAS Music File streaming application.
• Lan port applied with EMI shielding material from KAMET, enhanced audio performance with propriety Carbon Fiber Shielding (CFS) Technology and audio application.
• Project ClayX Black Element Duelund Cable will be used for internal DC power wire.
• Optional Adds on: Independent Black Modernize 5V Linear Power Supply is suggested to placed away from the digital signal board to eliminate the EMI interference and provide more precision and organic sounding. 
• The motherboard is placed on carbon fiber, anti-shock and EMI material is used, to eliminate the signal noise and better separation to avoid vibration interference for mission critical music playback.
• The “Carbonized Screw” was used to fix the position on Black Modernize Carbon Fiber Anti-Resonance Plate for Audiophile devices.
• All hand Made in Hong Kong by AfterDark. x Diretta in Japan

The development of Giesemann Master Clock Distributor 

This version is designed along with customer who is purchased a dCS Apex DAC. They required to have flexibility on working with different Word Clock Frequency, the audiophiles already acquired a flagship grade 10M Master Clock in the existing system, and looking for a clock distributor device which can generate the word clock outputs from 10M Master Clock in. As a result, all devices can sync with single 10M Master Clock to all devices. This approach can achieve the optimial result for sounding. 

This Giesemann Master Clock Distributor can improving the latest dCS Apex Vivaldi DAC. In additions with 3 x Word Clock, they request 3 more 10M Master Clock ouputs signals for network switch and other devices which accepting 10M Master Clock. 

Purchase Link

What is the design concept of Giesemann Master Clock Distributor ?

• The chips for clock sync is using the best processor for best sounding 
• Digital Input: External 10M Master Clock Reference Input on 1 x 75ohms BNC connector.
• The outputs signal will be in Square Wave, 75 Ohms with isolated with 6 outputs BNC Connectors.
• Each of the outputs can be preset to various frequency
• The chassis is rigid, heavy weighted and fine tuned with Carbon Fiber for EMI protection and ensure highest stability 
• Gold plated DC socket to connect external LPS at 12V 2A 
• The color of chassis can be made to order with choices of Silver and Black Colors
• Plug and Play compatibilty for dCS customers 

What is the summery of adjustable frequencies?

• 100Mhz, 50Mhz, 48Mhz, 25Mhz, 24Mhz, 8Mhz, 4Mhz, 33.8688Mhz,
• 49.152Mhz, 24.576Mhz, 12.288Mhz, 90.3168Mhz, 45.1584Mhz,
• DSD: 22.5792Mhz, 11.2896Mhz, 5.6448Mhz
• Word Clock: 192kHz, 176.4kHz, 96kHz, 88.2kHz, 48kHz, 44.1kHz
• Reference Clock: 10M Master Clock 

What is the standard frequency for digital input?

• Signal at 10Mhz 

What is the standard frequency setting for dCS customers?

• Output 1: 44.1kHz 
• Output 2: 48.0kHz
• Output 3: 176.4kHz
• Output 4: 192kHz
• Output 5: 10Mhz
• Output 6: 10Mhz

What is the standard frequency setting to use as 10M Master Clock distributor?

• Output 1:  10Mhz
• Output 2: 10Mhz
• Output 3: 10Mhz 
• Output 4: 10Mhz
• Output 5: 10Mhz
• Output 6: 10Mhz

The BNC at the Top is 10M Master Clock Input and the Bottom BNC is word clock or 10M outputs

The latest version of dCS Master Clock will have Reference IN for 10M Master Clock and 8 outputs of Word Clock Signals. 

For dCS Lina Network DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept accept standard Word Clock at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

For dCS Vivaldi DAC, the device are accepting 3 inputs of Word Clock as below:

• 3 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48, 96, 176.4kHz.

For dCS Rossini DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 44.1, 48kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

For dCS Network Bridge / Bartok DAC, the device are accepting 2 inputs of Word Clock:

• 2 x Word Clock Inputs on BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 44.1, 48kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate.
• To achieve the best possible clocking frequency, we use the highest grade of from Giesemann OCXO Master Clock to generate the Word Clock for each frequency at 44.1, 48khz.

The miniminst design of Giesemann OCXO Trifecta Extreme Edition for dCS will work plug and play for all dCS DAC

The  Giesemann Clock Distribution Modules is enclosed by Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT in 3mm

This version is made to order along with audiophiles's mind. A music lover who requires State of Art Music Server designed to deliver the most relax and high quality music for digital streaming music from Diretta.

We have been emerging from years of researching, comparing the audio components and listening the impression from audiophiles which is keen on utilitise the Giesemann 10M Master Clock for audio optimisations. The Giesemann Reference Audiophile Server is the culmination of what is possible to pursuit in the field of music servers. 

Pushing the limit of material technologies and craftmanship.

It combines many technological breakthroughs with use of carbon fiber, and selection of chassis material, finding an extreme high quality of OCXO and reaching the measureable limited of high precision measuring equipment. Only the best Audio Grade components is selected from the most respected vendors, and customise design from the audiophile points of view and prospective.  

As you may know, every devices we made is build by hand with high precision equipments. From the best screw driver from PB Swiss Tools, best Soldering devices from Weller, electronic driver from Fein. Every single hand build process, giving equal attention to resonance control, reliability, and user-friendly. 

Selection of Audiophile Motherboard and tweaks with Audio Components

We choose the SoTM sMB-Q370 Motherboard after we listen with it carefully at the system. It is always good to apply some Audio Grade Capacitor for the motherboard for a reason. We selected to use the Audio Capacitor from Frolyt made by Germany, in a way we found to be most neutral to the sound. 

Ever heard of CPU under clocking and Memory under clocking, we always keep the electronic to be run in under clock and maintains moderate heat for CPU and Memory. This keep the music server in optimial sound quality and impoves harmonic sonics and were able to tweaks in BIOS levels on motherboard.

The selection of RAM is selected A-grade memory modules, for industrial use and are matched to within a 1% tolerance and selected for low current draw. The lower heat reduces the refrash rates and noise level significantly. 

Generate Lowest Phase Noise and Latency with Giesemann OCXO 10M Reference Master Clock 

The Giesemann Reference is build for bit perfect with lowest jitter design. With bit perfect streaming, system latency becomes a a significant part of the resulting sound quality.

In the hardware level design, we focused on pushing the limited with the use of single external master clock, and provide sync with the clock inputs on the SoTM sMB-Q370 Audio Grade Motherboard. 

In the software level design, we focused on providing the lowest latency possible for every instruction or set of instructions the server has to manage. The operating system has been optimised and run under the latest development with Ubuntu 22.04.1 server build with Linux Real Kernel or Windows Server 2022, it is to ensure single core CPU isolation process is activated of what is absolutely needed to run music services.  

Selection of Intel Optane SSD PCIe for System OS with ultra low latency for music

Lower latency and much lower system noise overall, will improve micro details at the backgrounds, huge space redition and brings an ease to the music playback. In our reserach we found smoother music with Intel Optane SSD PCIe, which is connected directly to the CPU and bypasses the DMI. chipset at the motherboard. 

For music storage, audiophile can select the volume from 2TB up to 8TB Samsung SSD for local music playback. 

High performance Pressive heatsink with latest Graphene Technologies 

Graphene was properly isolated and characterized in 2004 by Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov at the University of Manchester. They pulled graphene layers from graphite with a common adhesive tape in a process called either micromechanical cleavage or the Scotch tape technique. The graphene flakes were then transferred onto thin silicon dioxide (silica) layer on a silicon plate ("wafer"). The silica electrically isolated the graphene and weakly interacted with it, providing nearly charge-neutral graphene layers. The silicon beneath the SiO could be used as a "back gate" electrode to vary the charge density in the graphene over a wide range. This work resulted in the two winning the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2010 "for groundbreaking experiments regarding the two-dimensional material graphene."

Thermal transport in graphene is an active area of research, which has attracted attention because of the potential for thermal management applications. Following predictions for graphene and related carbon nanotubes, early measurements of the thermal conductivity of suspended graphene reported an exceptionally large thermal conductivity up to 5300 W⋅m⁻¹⋅K⁻¹ . That is 14 times compared to thermal conductivity in copper, the server temperature will be much lower with high performance heat transfer from CPU. 

Specification:

Chassis  : Fanless design, 3mm Aluminum polished chassis,  completely passive cooled for silent operation improving resonance control and heat dissipation   

CPU  : Intel 9th generations 8 cores i9-9900T CPU / Low TDP Special Edition 

Ram  : 16GB DDR4 3200Mhz custom industrial module with EMI Shielding Material  (Standard Included) 

System  : Custom Audio Optimized Windows Server 2022 OS, Fully tweaked BIOS, Ultralow Jitter and Ultra low latency 

Tweak softwares for CPU and software single core optimisation: Full Pro License Fidelizer PRO 8.10 pre-install, MajorClean. 

Audio Output  : USB  / Lan ports / SFP ports 

Storage  : Intel Optane SSD 905p Series 480G AIC Version (Read: 2600MB/s Write: 2200MB/s) with Windows Server 2022 OS, Standard Included Music SSD storage 8TB Samsung SSD 

Audio Formats supported  : WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, AAC, MP3, DSD, MQA supported audio formats

Software Compatibility  : Roon, HQplayer, Diretta Host, Audirvana, JRiver, JPlay

Connections  : External connections consist of 1 HDMI, 1 Display Port , 6 USB ports, 1 LAN ports on board and 2 SFP ports at 1G Connection  

Power Supply for SoTM: Pressive Cooling ATX power supply

Remote Access  : Remote setup and maintenance

Color Options  : Silver and Black 

Dimensions  : 430 × 360 × 90mm (W x D x H)

Weight  : Around 10kg

A mini network hubs produced by AfterDark. 

gives a significant improvement on both video and audio 

designed based on Project ALPHA (PA) program 

with one well respected member in Audiophilestyle.

To honor that moment, we invite all 

Audiophiles to share the happyiness 

 with friends

This AfterDark. Giesemann NETone Mini Switch PA2 will optimisesd with Internal OCXO or connecting external 10M Master Clock, to enhanced the sound quality. While enhance the OCXO can improve sound quality. With the Cascade connection of PA1, optical isolator, this PA2 can provide extra Lan port for connections. 

The Giesemann NETone Mini Switch PA2 - may be the very first product to included OCXO Master Clock in this mini size. 

Purchase Link

The Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) will either accepts external inputs of 10M Reference Master Clock Signal or works with internal OCXO. Two versions would be made to orders. 

The PA2 will re-clock by GCSM to provide the best LAN signal to Music Player. The PA2 not only changes in the overall sounding but brings all micro details in the background and extracted them in precise timing with lowest possible jitter. 

Audio is very vulnerable to noise. There are many types of noise that can negatively affect audio quality, but the noise that has the biggest impact on computer streaming is EMI, RFI, and impulse noise .

The main role of NETone Mini Switch PA2 is to re-clock the CPU with precise timing with Giesesmann OCXO 10M Master Clock. The Sound and Video quality will be much higher with much smoother image on 4K playback on both Apple TV, Netflix and 4K YouTube. 

The advantage:

• The density and resolution in the video image is increased, the color of the 4K playback is smoother and transparent. The movie playback becomes more vivid and dense, allowing for musical nuances even in digital. Your sensibilities will be revived, and your music will start to sound more musical.

• The sound stage is much wider and opened up with 3D and improved focusing, quietness, clarity, purity, detail, and precision , while OCXO increase the precision and microdetail extraction with more refine backgrounds, the smoothness and microdynamics will be much better represented and created spatial region. 

The Audio Note Bi-Polar KENSAI Audiophile Grade Capacitor will be used for sound tuning

Connection Matrix:

Method 1: Connect the NETone Mini PA2 to the Lan port of the Apple TV, Smart TV and Network Player 

Behind the minimise design of the NETone Mini PA2, the internal components and parts is precision apply during the assembly process by soldering the chips with industrial graded signal cable to nearest 1mm, the process illustrating the hand craftsmanship that went into creating this entirely unique devices, which is highly skill intensive and cannot be made in today commercial standand procedure.   

Compataible to most 4K playback device including Apple TV, SmartTV and Audio Player. 

Question and Answer

Will this OXCO modified switch good for Video or Audio?

• Yes, we test this unit on both Audio and Video, it can enhance audio perfromance too.
• The soundstage is much wider and mirco dynamic increases, the sound is much smoother, analog and laid back. 
• We found the noise at the background is reduced on Video, so the back colour is more clean. 

Why OCXO switch can improve netflix and 4K YouTube picture quality?

• The CPU inside the switch is bypassing the internal clock, using the OCXO clock will provide better phase noise and reduce jitter in signals. Thus, the picture quality is greatly improved, darkness and black color will vivid nicely. 
• The linear power supply with ultra low noise is apply independently to CPU, OCXO and motherboard, it provide the best isolation for each devices. Much details representaion on video can be achieved, especially one dark background
• The black become much darker with graduation on grey levels, it will be more impressive in large screen or projectors. 

Why Cascade the NETone Mini Switch PA2 with SFP Isolator PA1?

• The cascade of double switch means, the network signals willl reclocked twice with network switches which has OCXO optimisation, the sounding will be more refined, analog and vocal will be sweeten. 

What is the DC voltage requires?

• One 5V or 12V 2.0A Linear Power Supply (LPS) is recommended 
• The DC plug is on 2.1mm/5.5mm

Why do you need a full speed 1G port network switch for video? 

• 100Mps switch can can only support the playback of 1080p with limited 10Mbs. 
• 4K Video require much higher bandwidth, 1G port  is minimum requirement, which can transfer up to 100Mbs. 
• Video will playback natively without trasnscode to lower resolution, much smooth for 4K HDR10+, as it requires at lastest 25Mbs data transfer rate. 

What playback device should be connect to each ports of NETone Mini Switch PA2?

• Port 1: Connect to NAS (Storage of backup Blu Ray / 4K HDR ISO)
• Port 2: Connect to Router
• Port 3: The best sounding port connect the Network Music Streamer
• Port 4: Apple TV 
• Port 5: TV ethernet port for Netflix and 4K YouTube playback

What is the maxmium throughout speed for NETone Mini Switch PA2?

• Bandwidth is 10Gbps, so all 5 port can support 4K video/ Netflex, retrieving data at the same time
• All the port is supporting Jumbo Frame Support (Up to 9K packet size) 
• Every port supports up to 2000 Mbps in dedicated bandwidth. Automatic flow control ensures smooth traffic. There is a queue buffer memory of 12 kbytes per port

A mini Digital Signal Conditioner produced by AfterDark. 

gives a significant improvement on sounding

designed based on Project ALPHA program 

with one well respected member in Audiophilestyle.

To honor that moment, we invite all 

Audiophiles to share the happyiness 

 with friends

The one-of-a-kind creation was designed especially for one serious audiophiles in audiophilestyle.com to connect the AfterDark. Trifecta Extreme Giesemann Clock on the audiophile system. The device is made by two motherboards inside that were individually working and seperated in two layers on Carbon Fiber AudiophileMAT at 3mm and 1mm thickness for best isolation. These existing arrangement are reconstituted as parts to bring the whole system to another levels. 

The Giesemann Clock Sync Module (GCSM) will either accepts external inputs of 10M Reference Master Clock Signal or works with internal OCXO. Two versions would be made to orders. 

Purchase Link

The Digital Signal Conditioner PA3 will re-clock by GCSM to provide the best USB to Digital signal to Audiophile DAC. The PA3 not only changes in the overall sounding but brings all micro details and extracted them in precise timing with lowest possible jitter.

Audio is very vulnerable to noise. There are many types of noise that can negatively affect audio quality, but the noise that has the biggest impact on computer streaming is EMI, RFI, and impulse noise .

The main role of Digital Signal Conditioner PA3 is to block EMI noise coming from the USB and power supply RFI noise that enters the digital signal path. The PA3 can be provide the isolation between the USB and DAC, re-clock the digital signals with repeect to 10M Reference Master Clock, provide the best signal to signal for multiplies of word clock for 44.1 kHz and 48.0 kHz on both PCM and DSD signal path. This Giesemann Clock Sync Modules (GCSM) will performs the generation of clock signal on each frequenies in  22.5792Mhz & 24.576Mhz. 

To ensure the maxmisation on sound optimisation, the GCSM will generate a delicated 12Mhz for USB chips to re-clock with the same 10M Master Clock. The result of sync of multiple devices with same reference clock will make the sounding much better in sound image and dynamic with lowest time jitter possible. 

Giesemann Reference Superchromat Audio Reclocker PA3 is a device that accepts USB input with Giesemann OCXO precision clocking  technology to remove RFI noise and impulse noise coming in from cables, and revive or reclocking the digital signal for Audiophiles system.

The performance will be further improved with high quality LPS with DC 5V.  

The advantage:

• The density in the sound image is increased, the color of the sound is revived, the sound of the singer's breathing, and the lingering sound that lasts until the end improves the sense of space and air, and the tone becomes more vivid and dense, allowing for musical nuances even in digital. Your sensibilities will be revived, and your music will start to sound more musical.

• The sound stage is much wider and opened up with 3D and improved focusing, quietness, clarity, purity, detail, and precision , while OCXO increase the precision and microdetail extraction with more refine backgrounds, the smoothness and microdynamics will be much better represented and created spatial region. 

• All the digitial output will be sync and output at the sametime, this can make multiple DAC or recording devices to accept playback at once. 

The Audio Note Bi-Polar KENSAI Capacitor will be used for sound tuning 

Behind the minimise design of the Audio Reclocker PA3 is the internal components and parts is precision apply during the assembly process by soldering the chips with industrial graded signal cable to nearest 1mm, the process illustrating the hand craftsmanship that went into creating this entirely unique devices, which is highly skill intensive and cannot be made in today commercial standand procedure.   

I2S HDMI is compatable to most i2S HDMI DAC, including Gustard, SMSL, PS Audio , Denefrips i2S DAC