Ethernet - Analog/Digital Signal Clean Up

@audphile1 I'll mention this for umpteenth time, when using usb dac,optimization is absolute key!. Vast majority of servers have rather poor usb rendering, reason for all these usb filters, renderers, other thingies. Right off, I'd say this is your weakest link, even beyond needing lps for the FMC's.

Very difficult to get beyond clutter when optimizing streaming networks. The only means to get beyond this is with the very top tier servers with optimized INTERNAL usb, network ports, or whatever output port one prefers, these also have built in top tier lps so no need for external lps. Another means to simplified system is slightly lesser server with top tier streamer/dac, server still must provide top tier network out port to retain simplicity. With all the streamer functions built into dac, one can bypass all the usb or any other preferred port issues. Get rid of all port issues, half the battle of clutter has been taken care of, only ethernet optimization remains.

Sorry, wasn't totally clear, I meant streaming dac. Separate streamer and dac is another option, not clutter free, however.

I've got an Etherregen it feeds my lyngdorf TDAI3400 amp / streamer and it's fed by SFP from a Cisco2960. makes a significant uptick over just going straight into the AMP from a router.

I also have a Chinese 10mhz clock on the Etherregen and both have shielded power cables, LPS and everything 'floats' on black ravioli pads. All makes a difference.

sadly getting certain parts for the Etherregen means it may no longer be produced.

the passive network acoustics ENO filters get a lot of love too.

The passive ENO filter from Network Acoustics is very effective in reducing noise and for clutter free application. All other solutions while maybe effective adds substantial clutter. As @sns pointed out, streaming DAC is one way to avoid multiple connection points thus limiting exposure to potential noise entering connecting devices in your signal chain. In any case, Ethernet optimization is now a necessary evil if you’re interested in exploring full potential of streaming.

I quickly read up on the Bonn N8 etherswitch and it's jitter improvements. I am scratching my head a bit, most streamers have a buffer that is at least several hundred milliseconds , if not seconds or 10's of seconds..  When the ethernet frame hits the streamer, the music payload is extracted and placed in this buffer, where it sits around a bit. How exactly does reducing jitter from 700 to 400ps within the confines of a etherswitch provide a sonic improvement?