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Are you computer audiophile? If so, Fidelizer will help you enjoy the music on computer even more.

Introducing StreamHub, Audiophile Streaming Router as wireless router + network switch + DLNA server for high fidelity streaming

 

StreamHub - Streaming Router

 

After successful launch of AirStream2 wireless router with over 100 units of AirStream products being sold with no return, it’s quite certain that wireless network improvement is the missing key to complete media streaming in future.

We also found network switch in AirStream2 performing very well enough for customers to remove several audiophile network switches and use switch in AirStream2. This made us realized how great it would be if we could have:

audiophile network switch
audiophile wireless router
audiophile streamer

all in a single product at very affordable price so most audiophiles and even Netflix users can enjoy better streaming experience.

Despite being the most affordable audiophile wireless router already, $549 audiophile wireless router is still far from being reasonable for products like $500-1000 streaming DACs, soundbar, TV. So, we decided to develop a new category product to fit market’s demand perfectly.

StreamHub will improve both ethernet network as audiophile network switch and create a new Wi-Fi 6 access point called “StreamHub” with password “fidelizer” as audiophile wireless network, just like AirStream2 but at only half of the price at $279 USD.

Plus, you can also plug USB storage into StreamHub and system will prepare DLNA server for you to stream music library from router to streaming DAC directly without a computer or configuration required as true plug and stream solution.

To ensure StreamHub will meet the Fidelizer’s standards of feel the real sound, we chose the most important modification to improve StreamHub product as below:

 

-Upgrade Capacitors with high capacitance and low impedance tuned in power supply section
-Crystal clock is upgraded with high precision clock optimized for network application with noise reduction tweaks
-Components are soldered with high quality solder providing solid bass and dynamics
-Router is configured for low-latency audiophile streaming applications

 

If you use DLNA/uPNP or Airplay / Chromecast, streaming packets will be sent from application through Wi-Fi meaning there’ll be some wander jitter in streaming packets before reaching network switch. StreamHub can offer low-jitter / low-noise network to minimize total jitter in your system.

The product price will be $279 USD with 30-day money back guaranteed and free shipping until 31st October 2023. You can read more about StreamHub Streaming Router product in details before ordering and happy listening.

Fidelizer 8.10 released – Improved core isolation optimization and compatibility with ExerciseStabilizer/ExtremeStabilizer

 

Fidelizer Pro

 

After releasing Fidelizer 8.9 with some changes to support more cases, I realized two things from customer’s feedback. First is no feedback from customers configuring processor to have specific cores turned off. Next is some people prefer 8.8 sound.

After realizing how this new change doesn’t actually improve customer’s satisfaction, I changed my approach to fully focus on most common implementation with 2 cores per floating point unit and optimize core isolation to handle physical/logical cores better.

Now non-audio processes won’t touch cores in first FPU and focus more on logical cores if there’s no enforcement to last core only. Media Player Application will focus on physical cores. ExerciseStabilizer/ExtremeStabilizer is now compatible with Fidelizer too.

As a result, Fidelizer 8.10 has reached a new high improving synergy between Windows audio thread, media player applications, and non-audio processes. This update is very important and I highly recommend everyone to install this update.

 

Changelog for version 8.10

Free
-Changed processor’s core detection back based on common implementation of 2 cores per FPU unit
-Disabled Apply Core Isolation Policy option in free version as it does nothing without components from Plus/Pro version
-Increased progress dialog size and adjusted all progress dialogs’ size uniformly
-Improved process affinity optimization on non-audio processes to use logical cores and leave first cores in FPU alone
-Improved software compatibility with ExerciseStabilizer and ExtremeStabilizer

Plus
-Changed default option to not enforce non-audio core to last physical/logical core only
-Changed failing license verification allow main dialog access for uninstallation and contact support
-Changed processor’s core detection back based on common implementation of 2 cores per FPU unit
-Improved Core Isolation Policy to handle core affinity of Windows audio thread and media player applications better
-Improved process affinity optimization on non-audio processes to use logical cores and leave first cores in FPU alone
-Improved software compatibility with ExerciseStabilizer and ExtremeStabilizer
-Increased progress dialog size and adjusted all progress dialogs’ size uniformly
-Replaced “Audio Player (without network connection)” audio profile with “Disable/Stop network services” option in Advanced configuration

Pro
-Changed default option to not enforce non-audio core to last physical/logical core only
-Changed failing license verification allow main dialog access for uninstallation and contact support
-Changed processor’s core detection back based on common implementation of 2 cores per FPU unit
-Improved Core Isolation Policy to handle core affinity of Windows audio thread and media player applications better
-Improved process affinity optimization on non-audio processes to use logical cores and leave first cores in FPU alone
-Improved software compatibility with ExerciseStabilizer and ExtremeStabilizer
-Increased progress dialog size and adjusted all progress dialogs’ size uniformly
-Replaced “Audio Player (without network connection)” audio profile with “Disable/Stop network services” option in Advanced configuration

 

Download: Fidelizer 8.10
Upgrade: Fidelizer Upgrade Program

 

You can download latest version of purchased Fidelizer software from the same download link that we sent in email before. If you are not sure where to download purchased Fidelizer software, feel free to contact us and request software download link.

Introducing EtherStream2 and AirStream2, the second generation of affordable highend network improvements tuned with Esoteric K1X Grandioso as reference

 

EtherStream2 - Network Switch

 

It’s almost 3 years since the first release of EtherStream network switch. During these times, I continued my research and development looking for possibilities to improve streaming services to the next level. And today is when I’m certain it’s ready for second generation.

The first generation of EtherStream and AirStream uses high precision crystal clock from NDK which is known to be famous company in Japan. I realized later that NDK clock I chose sounds a bit too analytical for my own preference and I wished some aspects in Tidal/Qobuz streaming could be better.

Before choosing Cisco CBS110-8T-D, I also tested a few other suitable network switches with intensive modification from Linksys, Netgear, Ubiquiti, and few others. I started developing new prototypes after Cisco CBS110 series was introduced as SG110 replacement.

It was harder to check micro detail, soundstage image and depth with $4-5k DAC I was using. Testing product at my client’s place helped me realize shortcomings on prototype units. After getting Esoteric K1X Grandioso, I can notice micro detail and depth better and fixed issues I found.

After comparing Tidal streaming to CD playback in Esoteric K1X Grandioso, I can see from better references where I can optimize EtherStream2 to deliver closer performance with new changes as below:

 

-Base Network Switch is changed from Cisco SG110D-08 to Cisco CBS110-8T-D
-Upgraded clock module with more suitable specifications for networked audio improving musicality
-Upgraded capacitors with new tuned value and have better specifications for lower impedance and current leakage
-Upgraded output transformer with high quality EMI/RFI reduction and vibration control sheet for router

 

Compared to original EtherStream, EtherStream2 brings fuller sound with improved balance and musicality. It also improves depth and resolution with blacker background. Micro details and bass articulation are improved with better presence. It’s significant upgrade for fraction of price increment.

 

AirStream2 - Wireless Router

 

AirStream2 also have the similar improvements applied after finishing EtherStream2 development. After checking market and wait for the right product to arrive, I picked ASUS RT-AX55 and apply modification with new changes as below:

 

-Base Network Switch is changed from ASUS RT-AC1300UHP to ASUS RT-AX55
-Upgraded clock module with more suitable specifications for networked audio improving musicality
-Upgraded capacitors with new tuned value and have better specifications for lower impedance and current leakage
-Upgraded firmware and configuration in router for optimal sound quality (Recommend 2.4GHz for audio 5GHz for others)
-Upgraded ethernet switch part with overhaul modification including clock module as audiophile network switch 4 port

 

Since new base model has separated 4 ports network switch and wireless router circuitry inside, AirStream2 will have modification of both network switch and wireless router with separated clock module and tuning inside. You can also use AirStream2 as audiophile network switch also.

 

And one last thing is Nikola2’s production cost has been increased a lot lately. I can no longer maintain the same initial price anymore so Nikola2’s price will be changed to $849 USD based on increased production cost as below:

 

-Ultra low noise transformer price increased
-Furutech FI-03(G) Inlet price increased
-Regulator price increased a lot
-Currency exchange rate and price of imported parts increased

 

I also have fixed cost increased as I found company Fidelizer Audio Co.,Ltd. now having to pay 15% tax and 7% vat but that I’m still absorbing that to maintain the same price as before so increased price on Nikola2 are from increased production cost alone.

 

The MSRP price of EtherStream2 is $449 USD and AirStream2 is $549 USD. During introductory period in this month, you’ll get free shipping for ordering EtherStream2 or AirStream2. Nikola2 won’t have free shipping offer but still has free shipping bundle if you order other products with Nikola2.

Introducing Nimitra2 / Nikola2 as second generation of computer audio server and linear power supply

 

Nimitra2

 

Today is the big day for Fidelizer. After years of preparations and refining products for second generation, Nimitra2 and Nikola2 are finally ready for production which are projects I’ve been working for 2 years already.

There’s so much going on behind the scene since last year. As I also have clients ordering custom $5-7k server project since the first Nimitra. I always thought it’d be great if we can build  a product having performance that resembles custom highend server for half price.

With Classic series, it helped me realizing my dream to make highend audio performance affordable at $995. There’s also very good cost effective Nikola Classic at $395. This will keep Nimitra affordable and I can focus on taking second generation to next level.

I planned to launch them last year but could not make it to production stage due to covid situation which affect many companies worldwide causing long delay. I’ve been selling Nikola Signature with Nikola2 circuit board for over a year now, waiting for Nimitra2’s completion.

Now that I can finalize Nimitra2 design and production line, it’s time to embark a new journey. Nimitra2 will pair up nicely with modern DACs in market with custom made chassis, optimized as a streamer to deliver performance based on CD transport with Esoteric’s drive.

 

Nimitra2’s Features (As upgrade from Signature):

-Custom aluminum chassis design for better resonance/vibration control and heat dissipation
-Motherboard and chassis has vibration absorber/isolator material reducing vibration to motherboard
-MOSFET in motherboard’s power supply circuit is upgraded with high quality one from Japan
-All clock modules in motherboard are now upgraded improving sound quality on USB/Ethernet/HDMI
-Capacitors in motherboard are tuned with better resolution and details extraction

With all new improvements focusing on improving purity of signal and reduce interference, I can hear music flowing with richer ambient and micro detail and feel closer to music with newfound improvements on Nimitra2.

MSRP price of Nimitra2 is $2495 USD. For original Nimitra and Nimitra Signature owner, you can send your original unit to upgrade to Nimitra2 at $1,100 for Nimitra and $600 for Nimitra Signature. This upgrade should be a great value for existing customers to enjoy music better.

 

Nikola2’s Features (As upgrade from Signature):

-Input capacitor is changed to dual capacitor circuit design improving power handling
-Diode is upgraded with higher output current to handle devices like Roon Nucleus+ better
-Capacitors are tuned for better transparency and micro detail without sacrificing musicality

With new changes and improvements on Nikola2, it helps music flowing with Nimitra more coherently with timbre and PRaT done right to make music both enjoyable and believable. This can apply to any device Nikola2 powers also.

MSRP of Nikola2 is $749 USD. Nikola2 has a new circuit design so upgrading with top up price is not possible. Also, most changes are about handling some cases better so Nikola Signature will deliver similar performance with some sound signature changes.

 

Fidelizer will provide free shipping during introductory period for all Nimitra / Nikola purchases in December 2021. I hope this will be a fine Christmas present to audiophiles worldwide and happy listening. 🙂

Added EtherStream2 + Nikola Classic feedback from DJK

EtherStream2 - Network Switch

 

And here’s another feedback today. He purchased EtherStream and upgraded to EtherStream+ before and decided to upgrade to with two EtherStream2 units, custom highend CAT8.1 ethernet cable and Nikola Classic linear power supply later.

Added the new Etherstream2 to a system that drives 3 HDMI outputs. Both the picture and sound are crisper, although not as big an improvement as the Etherstream2 driving my best streamer. The top line streamer now has sharper edges around each instrument (including voice). Even better is that the sound projects more toward the listener. Nice work!

Thanks,
DJK

I’m happy to hear that both EtherStream2 network switch units are improving both audio and picture quality wonderfully and happy listening. 🙂

Fidelizer on Axpona 2024

Fidelizer on Axpona 2024

 

Another day I received good news from Hans Looman, CEO of Infigo Audio Inc that exhibited their products on Axpona 2024 show. He shared his experience with Fidelizer to his clients in very successful show event as below. 🙂

Absolutely love the sound when using Fidelizer Pro! We use it to fidelize a windows 11 mini pc running on a linear power supply, using Audirvana as music player. It is excellent! Love the ability to dedicate cpu cores to audio specific tasks while limiting any non-audio tasks Windows is normally riddled with. Using it in the highest possible ‘purist mode’

Cheers, Hans.

I’m happy to hear that Fidelizer Pro helps in delivering wonderful experience in Axpona show this year. He also shared his experience in Audirvana community so feel free to check out. 🙂

Added testimonial from Martin Kirk

Here’s a new feedback today. He shared his feedback after assisting him setting up Fidelizer Pro in his computer as below.

I think stereo increased 2000 usd in quality. You have a great product. Never knew PC properties could improve audio quality so much. Congratulations.

I’m glad to hear that Fidelizer Pro can bring $2,000 USD worth of sound quality improvement in his system and happy listening. 🙂

iBasso DX200 Purist ROM version V1.10.120 V2 released

 

Fidelizer - PerfectDynamics Sound Optimizations 3.0

 

For new users, please read about PerfectDynamics 3.0 Sound Optimizations first for new improvements with Fidelizer ROMs.

 

Since iBasso DX200 has smaller screen, I decided to update base DX200 ROM with updates from DX160 ROM instead as below. 🙂

 

-Based on iBasso DX200 firmware version V1.10.120
-PerfectDynamics 3.0 Sound Optimizations applied
-iBasso Music, Launcher are ported from latest version of iBasso DX160 with optimizations
-Libraries files are updated from latest version of iBasso DX160
-Google Play Store added
-Apollo – Fidelity Edition from https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/apollo-music-player-fidelity-edition-t3038629 included
-MangoPlayer app has optimizations applied
-build.prop tweaks for better video and storage performance and improve battery life
-Audio engine optimized for only audio playback (EQ/Gaplass features work)

 

Download: iBasso DX200 Purist ROM

 

Installation Guide

1. Install Rockchip USB driver included in iBasso DX220Max Upgrade Tool and make sure it shows ‘Found One ADB device’ in AndroidTool software
2. Extract OTA ROM from Official Oreo ROM firmware to DX160’s internal storage and flash from Settings > System > Updater > Local storage
3. After successfully flashing official ROM, go to Settings > System > About tablet and tap “Build number” for 7 times to enable “Developer options”
4. Tap back arrow to enter “Developer options”, enable “USB debugging”, and press OK
5. Connect DX160 to computer with USB connection in Android mode again and press OK to allow USB debugging
6. Download Disable Verity package and run disable_verity.bat file to disable verity and restart (Authorize USB debugging on device and run again)
7. After DX160 boots up properly with Verity disabled, run reset_loader.bat file so you can enter loader mode
8. Open AndroidTool, click on “Upgrade Firmware” tab, click on Firmware button and select update.img extracted from Purist ROM then click Upgrade

 

For Mac / Linux users, please check this guide for flashing Fidelizer Purist ROM on Mac / Linux instructions.

 

If you like improvements in Purist ROM, you may upgrade to Enhanced / Advanced ROM for even better sound. Please read Portable Products for more details including Fidelizer Mod project with 3 modification levels and happy listening. 🙂

iBasso DX220 Purist ROM version V1.02.143-DX220MaxPort released

 

Fidelizer - PerfectDynamics Sound Optimizations 3.0

 

For new users, please read about PerfectDynamics 3.0 Sound Optimizations first for new improvements with Fidelizer ROMs.

 

It’s been a while after last Purist ROM. I have some time to release DX220MaxPort for iBasso DX220 device with new updates from iBasso DX220Max DX160. Enjoy. 🙂

 

-Based on iBasso DX220Max firmware version V1.02.143
-PerfectDynamics 3.0 Sound Optimizations applied
-iBasso Music, Launcher are ported from latest version of iBasso DX160 with optimizations
-Libraries files are updated from latest version of iBasso DX160
-Google Play Store added
-Apollo – Fidelity Edition from https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/apollo-music-player-fidelity-edition-t3038629 included
-MangoPlayer app has optimizations applied
-build.prop tweaks for better video and storage performance and improve battery life
-Audio engine optimized for only audio playback (EQ/Gaplass features work)

 

Download: iBasso DX220 Purist ROM

 

Installation Guide

1. Install Rockchip USB driver included in iBasso DX220Max Upgrade Tool and make sure it shows ‘Found One ADB device’ in AndroidTool software
2. Extract OTA ROM from Official Oreo ROM firmware to DX160’s internal storage and flash from Settings > System > Updater > Local storage
3. After successfully flashing official ROM, go to Settings > System > About tablet and tap “Build number” for 7 times to enable “Developer options”
4. Tap back arrow to enter “Developer options”, enable “USB debugging”, and press OK
5. Connect DX160 to computer with USB connection in Android mode again and press OK to allow USB debugging
6. Download Disable Verity package and run disable_verity.bat file to disable verity and restart (Authorize USB debugging on device and run again)
7. After DX160 boots up properly with Verity disabled, run reset_loader.bat file so you can enter loader mode
8. Open AndroidTool, click on “Upgrade Firmware” tab, click on Firmware button and select update.img extracted from Purist ROM then click Upgrade

 

For Mac / Linux users, please check this guide for flashing Fidelizer Purist ROM on Mac / Linux instructions.

 

If you like improvements in Purist ROM, you may upgrade to Enhanced / Advanced ROM for even better sound. Please read Portable Products for more details including Fidelizer Mod project with 3 modification levels and happy listening. 🙂