Aurender N 10 - Network Hub

Aurender NH10 – Audiophile network switch with OCXO clocking and galvanic isolation

The Aurender NH10 is not a classic network switch, but a network infrastructure component optimized for audio applications. The goal is not higher bandwidth, but controlled, electrically clean, and temporally stable data distribution within digital playback chains.

Three technical aspects are central to its design: clock stability, consistent noise reduction, and galvanic isolation. The NH10 is therefore designed as an upstream network layer for streaming systems, especially in combination with high-quality digital transports and DACs.

Clock architecture and jitter reduction

The NH10 uses an OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator) with a frequency stability of < 0.005 ppm. This highly stable reference serves as the central time base for all internal processes.

FPGA-based synchronization ensures that all data paths are referenced to this master clock. The goal is to minimize timing deviations in network operation, especially with sensitive audio streams.

For external synchronization environments, a 10 MHz BNC clock input (50 ohms) is available, allowing the switch to be integrated into existing master clock systems.

Network topology and galvanic isolation

The NH10 consistently separates network segments from each other. All RJ45 ports are equipped with special filtering technology, while two SFP ports enable complete galvanic isolation via optical transmission.

This architecture reduces electrical coupling between connected devices and prevents interference from being transmitted over the network to subsequent audio components.

Power supply and interference behavior

The power supply is based entirely on linear voltage regulators. Switching converters are deliberately omitted. This results in a more stable, lower-noise power supply to all circuit components.

A key design aspect is the reduction of RF interference and high-frequency switching artifacts that are common in conventional network components.

Additionally, the LED port indicator can be deactivated to further reduce electrical and optical interference.

Housing and mechanical construction

The housing is made of solid milled aluminum. Besides providing mechanical stability, it also serves as shielding against electromagnetic interference and vibrations.

The design is intended for continuous operation and follows the same design principle as the other Aurender components.

Network function in the audio context

The NH10 does not process audio signals in the traditional sense, but rather optimizes network conditions for downstream digital devices. Typical applications include:

• Streaming systems with separate transport and DAC
• High-quality network players
• Systems with external master clock
• Setups with critical jitter requirements

Technical specifications – Aurender NH10

Network & Interfaces

• Standards: IEEE 802.3i / 802.3u / 802.3ab / 802.3z
• LAN ports:
  • LAN1–LAN2: 100 / 1000 Mbps
  • LAN3–LAN6: 100 / 1000 Mbps
• SFP ports: 2 × (100 / 1000 Mbps)
• Connectors: RJ45 (8-pin), SFP
• Maximum transmission distance: 100 m

Clocking & Synchronization

• OCXO clock with < 0.005 ppm frequency stability
• FPGA-based synchronization
• External clock input:
  • 10 MHz
  • 0.7 Vrms
  • BNC, 50 Ohm

power supply

• Fully linear power supply
• No DC-DC switching converters
• Power consumption:
  • Standby: approx. 3.1 W
  • Operation (warm-up): up to approx. 26 W
  • Locked State: up to approx. 20 W

Mechanics & Housing

• CNC-milled aluminum housing
• Dimensions: 430 × 355 × 56 mm (68 mm with feet)
• Weight: approx. 8.0 kg
• LED display can be switched off

Operating conditions

• Operating temperature: 10 °C – 35 °C
• Input voltage: 110 V / 220 V (Fuse: 2A, slow-blow, 5 × 20 mm)

Classification

The Aurender NH10 is designed as an infrastructural component within high-quality streaming systems. It does not interfere with signal processing but rather addresses the upstream network infrastructure. The focus is on electrical quietness, temporal stability, and the controlled coupling of digital devices within audiophile network topologies.