Netgear Orbi RBK23 Wi-Fi System Review & Comments

Doc

I have the BT WholeHome package, and it DOES have 5GHz backhaul.
Works very well.
And it's a lot cheaper too.

Trollslayer

"with high-powered amplifiers".
ERP - Effective Radiated Power is limited by conformance testing to standards so the maximum ERP is the same for all systems.

jchm

I’m a complete thicko on network tech but I’m interested in this kit.

I have four Sonos speakers throughout the house, which work well but my general WiFi range is rubbish away from the lounge with the router. It’s a solid 1930’s 4-bedroom detached home and I’ve tried extenders and homeplugs with mixed results.

So if I give this kit a go to improve the general WiFi signal, my existing Sonos setup wouldn’t be adversely affected?

Mister_Tad

Just make sure you're not sharing 2.4ghz channels between your wifi and Sonos. In theory Sonos (and I assume Netgear) will default to auto and select the channel with least overlap, but in practice I've seen Sonos pick the same channel as an AP that was sitting literally next to it.

Non overlapping channels for your own gear are 1, 6 and 11 - apps on your phone will give a rough view of other usage (i.e. your neighbours) across the rest as well.

Trollslayer

Adjacent networks is a very good point.

Joe C

One thing I do recommend with the Netgear is looking up how to separate out the 2.4ghz and 5ghz networks. I had a lot of Logitech Harmony issues until I did that

Dave777

I have the RBK53 and I use the wired backhaul for both the satellites and have no problems and great speed/range. I have a few sonos spread around too on their own network. My internet tops out at 50mb so v jealous of you higher speed guys!

I always check out new firmware on the netgear community forums and the sonos ones first though before upgrading!

Joe C

I’ve been trying to remember why I stopped having Sonos on its own network, and have remembered.

The only one I couldn’t hardwire was a Play 1 in our bedroom. It was located directly above a Playbar, later a Beam, in the living room below that was wired in.

I would find that the alarm, using TuneIn would randomly cut out. Figured it was a TuneIn issue. However, it was the same using any of the radio player apps.  Decided to reset it all and start again, setting up the Play 1 first. All worked fine until I started hard wiring players in. Switched to WiFi only and haven’t had an issue since. Fortunately I won’t be setting up rears in the rooms with the Playbar and the Beam, so won’t need either plugged in

Nabs

Sorry to add a question.

Does anyone know if Orbi will play nicely with Sky broadband?

Greg Hook

Can't see why it wouldn't.