KECES Ewave Audio Network Switch for Stable HiFi Streaming

Taiwanese manufacturer KECES Audio has established a strong reputation among technically minded HiFi enthusiasts through power supplies, DACs, and phono preamplifiers focused on electrical stability and low noise. With the Ewave Audio Network Switch, the company now addresses a component that plays a growing role in modern playback chains: the network switch. As streaming becomes the primary source for high-quality music reproduction, the stability, timing accuracy, and electrical behaviour of network infrastructure are increasingly scrutinised in high-end audio systems.

Key Facts

• Dedicated network switch developed specifically for HiFi streaming environments
• Eight Gigabit Ethernet ports supporting 1.000, 100 and 10 Mbps
• Precision 25 MHz OCXO clock for stable timing behaviour
• Segmented, multi-stage power supply architecture
• Individually controllable network ports for reduced interference
• Audio-focused QoS configuration prioritising music data streams
• Fully in-house circuit and PCB design
• Optimised for reduced EMI and RFI in sensitive audio systems

Networking as a Critical Element in Streaming Systems

In conventional IT networks, error-free data transfer is the primary concern. In audio streaming systems, however, data must also be delivered under consistent timing conditions and with minimal electrical interference. According to many audiophile users, fluctuations in timing, high-frequency noise, or cross-talk between network ports can indirectly influence downstream components such as streamers, DACs, or external clock systems. The KECES Ewave is designed around the idea that a network switch can actively contribute to more predictable and reproducible operating conditions in such setups.

OCXO Clocking for Consistent Data Flow

At the heart of the Ewave lies a 25 MHz OCXO, a temperature-controlled crystal oscillator known for low phase noise and high frequency stability. In practical terms, this precise clock source is intended to support more uniform packet handling and reduce timing irregularities within the network. For users, this translates into more stable operating conditions for network players and servers, particularly when handling high-resolution streams or complex multi-device installations such as Roon-based systems.

Power Supply Segmentation and Port Isolation

KECES places strong emphasis on power integrity throughout the Ewave’s internal architecture. The chipset, OCXO, network ports, and control circuitry are each supplied via separate, multi-stage power paths. This approach aims to minimise mutual interference between functional blocks and shield sensitive sections from potential noise sources. In addition, individual ports can be enabled or disabled as needed, allowing users to deactivate unused connections and further reduce electrical interaction in streamlined audio-only networks.

Audio-Priority QoS and Flexible Integration

The Ewave features a Quality of Service configuration tailored specifically to audio applications. Music data streams are prioritised over other network traffic, helping to avoid dropouts or timing inconsistencies when multiple devices share the same network. With eight Gigabit Ethernet ports supporting common data rates, the switch can be integrated into a wide range of scenarios, from dedicated audio LANs to mixed networks combining music servers, streamers, NAS systems, and control devices.

Circuit Design Focused on Low Interference

All circuitry inside the KECES Ewave has been developed in-house, with particular attention paid to PCB layout, grounding strategy, and suppression of electromagnetic and high-frequency interference. According to the manufacturer, extensive measurements and listening tests were carried out to ensure stable operating parameters and low background noise, even in electrically sensitive HiFi environments.

Price and Availability

The KECES Ewave Audio Network Switch will be available from authorised dealers starting January 2026. The recommended retail price is € 1.500,-.

Conclusion – Audiophile Networking for Demanding Systems

With the Ewave, KECES Audio extends familiar audiophile design principles into the networking domain. Rather than treating the network as neutral infrastructure, the switch is positioned as an active part of the digital audio chain. For high-quality streaming systems built around separate servers, streamers, and DACs, the Ewave offers a specialised solution aimed at creating stable, low-noise, and reproducible network conditions.

Technical Specifications