LAN Switch Taiko Audio Extreme Switch Black

Network switch in a solid copper chassis, optimised for connecting Taiko Audio music servers

The Extreme Switch is an external network component designed to replace and optimise the direct Ethernet interface of the Extreme and Olympus Music Server. It works by cleaning up network traffic and moving part of the processing outside the music server, thereby reducing the level of noise entering the playback chain. The unit operates in Plug & Play mode and requires no configuration.

The structural foundation is a chassis machined from a single solid block of copper, measuring 22 x 22 x 5 cm. On the rear panel there is an M6 grounding terminal with an opening for a 4 mm Allen key. Connectivity is provided by one input and one output SFP+ module slot, which can be populated as needed: the input with an RJ-45 transceiver or an optical module, the output additionally with a DAC cable in lengths from 0.5 to 7 m. The switch works with gigabit SFP links (1000 Mbps) and is not compatible with 100 Mbps components.

Power is supplied by a standard DC source of 12–19 V DC, with a standard mains adapter included in the delivery; the connector measures 2.5 mm inner / 5.5 mm outer diameter and is 11.3 mm long (14 mm is recommended). Using a higher-quality linear power supply instead of the supplied adapter brings a further improvement in performance. A lower noise level at the network input translates into greater clarity of detail and more stable playback of both local and streamed files.

The Extreme Switch works on its own or in combination with the Extreme Router, which represents a more comprehensive solution with a multi-level approach to noise reduction. A further addition is the Extreme DC Power Distributor (DCD), which allows both the switch and the router to be powered from a single supply and delivers a better result than two separate power supplies — especially when the router and switch are linked with a DAC cable.

Key features

• Chassis: Machined from a single solid block of copper
• Operation: Plug & Play with no configuration required
• Connectivity: One input and one output SFP+ slot
• Output: RJ-45, optical or DAC cable 0.5–7 m
• Power: 12–19 V DC, optionally via the DC Power Distributor