Due to aged related lower back issues, I'm hiring out the "in wall" install. Therefore, limited trial/error ability.
But just take note of directionality.
Every single piece of ethernet cable that I've tried so far has always sounded best in one particular direction, and not the other.
Check directionality before they are lined up behind the walls.
I just recently found that out by accident. I was swapping out CAT cables in my audio network and noticed the same cable sounded different depending on direction. Not a huge difference but noticeable.
How do I check directionality? I hope it's written on the cable.
...I recommend running a couple of options, as usually labor and fuss costs way more than cable. For example, I ran two types of copper (floating shield, no shield) and two of fiber (MM, SM). Good to have options, IMO.
Maybe both, but leaning to not - this is not my forever house. Likely move within 5 years. Each install $175.
Never run parallel to power cables. Keep as far as possible, dont use combo boxes for power and data .
Keep cables away from dimmers and other lighting controls
Now regarding cables I know new seems to make some feel better . But it's truly an unknown parameter . I would stay away from cat8 or at least test using pre made patch cable .
I would use two kinds cat 6 and 7
But would use cat 7e shielded
And cat 6 e non shielded
Some feel shielded is better it maybe be no audio or any I see is using the shield
if one felt to u to use the shield only one side is recommended.
Pactch cables are cheap . Lastly no audio grade cables in walls . It's a completely unknown cable it most likely does not meet specs. This is one reason they don't work on audio grade sws or most sws.
All of digital is based on real standard cables and sws. I'm not saying there no it good but enters many non spec applications to use in walls where you can't remove easy
Thanks for "avoid electrical influences such a power lines" tip. It's obvious, but I would have missed it.
CAT 7e seems the best choice because of it seems to be at the highest level with a safe track record. Is CAT 7e universally the same, or are there differences between different brands, if so, any brand recommendations?
Thanks all, I really appreciate your valuable advice.