Welcome to another ‘First look’ on bestofhighend.com a blend of unboxing and preview, where we dive into exciting high-end audio gear.
Kind of product?
The DELA S50 is a premium, compact audiophile network switch engineered specifically to optimize digital audio streaming. It creates a clean, low-noise network environment for hi-res music playback, minimizing jitter, electrical noise, and interference for noticeably purer sound from streamers, servers, and DACs.
Brand?
DELA (formerly Melco), a Japanese high-end audio specialist based in Nagoya, is renowned for pioneering dedicated music servers and network switches that prioritize audio performance over generic IT networking. The brand focuses on precision engineering, ultra-low-noise power, and timing accuracy to elevate streamed music to true high-fidelity levels.
Current price?
The DELA S50 is currently available at authorized dealers for approximately €3.599.
What’s in the box?
The main unit – the sleek S50 Silver network switch – a high-quality power cord (IEC inlet), a network cable for initial setup, a user manual/quick-start guide, and warranty information. Everything needed for straightforward installation and immediate enjoyment.
Features?
Evolving from the acclaimed S100 series, the S50 brings flagship-level refinements into a compact half-width chassis with an integrated ultra-low-noise Clear Dynamic Power Supply for stable, clean energy delivery. It features user-configurable port speeds (via front-panel controls) to isolate audio traffic and power down unused ports, dramatically reducing electrical noise. Connectivity includes 6 × RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 3 × SFP+/SFP ports. A precision clock circuit minimizes jitter for perfect timing in high-resolution streaming. The design emphasizes vibration damping, short signal paths, and a quiet internal architecture – all Made in Japan for audiophile-grade performance.
Closer look?
The S50 Silver presents a stunning, minimalist half-width aluminum chassis in elegant brushed silver finish – premium and compact, fitting seamlessly into any high-end rack. The front panel features subtle DELA branding, discreet port-status LEDs (switchable), and intuitive buttons for per-port speed configuration. On the rear: the IEC power inlet, 6 gold-plated RJ45 ports, 3 SFP+ slots, and a clean, organized layout that prioritizes signal integrity. At around 3 kg, it feels solid and purposeful, disappearing elegantly under your setup while delivering serious sonic upgrades.
For whom is this product?
Perfect for serious audiophiles and streaming enthusiasts who have invested in high-end DACs, music servers, or streamers and want to unlock the full potential of their digital audio chain. Ideal for those upgrading from standard consumer switches, seeking cleaner, more detailed, and dynamically alive sound without compromise – especially in systems with Roon, NAS libraries, or high-res services.
Conclusion?
The DELA S50 Silver Network Switch is a brilliant step forward for accessible high-end networking – compact yet packed with trickle-down technology from the flagship S1 and S5. In our quick A/B test swapping from a generic switch to the S50 feeding our reference streamer and DAC, the difference was immediately audible: blacker backgrounds, sharper timing, greater micro-detail, and a more shiny, polished flow to the music. It’s like giving your entire digital front-end a dedicated audiophile upgrade.
Frequently asked questions
What lets the S50 isolate audio traffic from the rest of the network?
User-configurable port speeds, set via front-panel controls, let you isolate audio traffic and power down unused ports — paired with an integrated ultra-low-noise Clear Dynamic Power Supply.
How does the S50 minimize jitter for high-resolution streaming?
A precision clock circuit inside the switch, combined with vibration damping and short internal signal paths.
How many ports does the S50 have, and what types?
6 gold-plated RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 3 SFP+/SFP ports.
How does the S50 relate to DELA’s flagship switches?
It brings flagship-level refinements — trickle-down technology from the flagship S1 and S5 — into a compact half-width chassis, evolving from the acclaimed S100 series.
