Article: XACT(LY) - Review of XACT S1 Evo Music Server and N1 Switch

1 minute ago, PYP said:

from a photo of the N1 (seen elsewhere), it seems there are 5 RJ45s and 1 SFP.

Correct.

1 minute ago, PYP said:

By chance, did you try the S1 Eco without the N1 switch?

I use the S1 Evo with the N1 the entire time. 

20 minutes ago, di-fi said:

Dear @The Computer Audiophile,

 

Thank you for sharing your insights on the XACT S1 Evo / N1 switch combination. Your observations highlight several key aspects of the device:

• The S1 Evo’s consistent performance across various listening environments, ensuring high-quality sound.
• Its specialized design with focused hardware/software integration, distinguishing it from more generic solutions.
• The dedicated effort of Marcin Ostapowicz and his team in both developing and bringing this device to market.
• The exceptional sound quality, described as achieving “pure sonic bliss.”
• Your recognition on the “CASH List,” indicating its top-tier status among similar products.

Thank you for your detailed perspective—it is truly invaluable. I just wanted to clarify that the document isn’t intended to be a formal review, as the title might imply. It does not include elements such as pros and cons, comparisons with similar devices, or ratings based on specific criteria. Your insights are certainly appreciated and contribute to a better understanding of the strengths of the S1 Evo / N1 combo. However, it does come across more like a press release.
 

Thank you once again for your thoughtful insights.

Best,

Thanks for the kind words @di-fi

With respect to this review and what you believe should be discussed in a review, we’ll have to disagree. My reviewing style is very different from most. A great product makes me feel something, brings out emotion, and gets me excited to write about it. I let the words flow. 
 

More structured reviews are antithetical to anything I’m interested in writing or reading. Fortunate, we have other writers who love that style. There’s no right or wrong, just styles. 
 

Edit: One thing that comes to mind for me is that there’s an inherent comparison in my reviews because I listen to many components as part of my job. I know this doesn’t help people in a classic comparison sense, but it’s something that people can keep in mind.