Network Switches

@grannyring  Bill, I went with Small Green Computer's internal bridge (i.e. within their server). They had offered it on my now older build. It is offered again on their most current i9 build but not on their i5 unit.

I prefer going through the internal (simple) bridge within the server versus using the switching capability of my Netgear Orbi Satellite. The differences aren't major but definitely noticeable and preferred.

I attribute the differences I hear as more likely due to the isolation of the server and the fact that it is powered off a dedicated LPS with a much, much better power cord.

The LPS to the Orbi Satellite is the same as the one to the server, however, it has dual DC outputs... both being utilized. As mentioned above, it is powered with a basic power cord. Due to the shape of the Orbi, I am unable to isolate it with the footers, etc. that I currently have.

I'm evaluating server choice. If I stay with Small Green Computer, I'll have them customize the build (including a higher quality internal bridge, if possible). 

@jason_k2017

even the very highest quality digital audio stream is a breeze.

This isn’t (solely) about having good or great latency for your streaming purposes.

Why would I install something which will change the audio that the studio took so much care to create, and my DAC has taken so much care to faithfully reproduce?

Consider a switch as being an ’equal’ / component-level... as you do your DAC.

In my limited personal experience, the better the feed to the DAC the better the DAC’s performance. And, using your word, the more "faithful" the system's performance.

@david_ten 

Thanks for the reply
But this doesnt realy answer my question
I currently have a high end DAC reproducing audio exactly as it was digitised. Why would I install a switch that the manufacturers say will change that?

@david_ten 
and forgive me,  but if something is faithfully reproduced, it can not be 'more faithfully' reproduced

Jason: please forgive me, for I cannot answer your questions. My use of your word faithful was in quotes....   : )