Ethernet Switch- what's the point?

@erik_squires 

I have a similar situation to you.

I assume you insert the Ethernet isolator after the  Ethernet switch in the cat 6 cable going to your streamer.

What isolator do you recommend, and should it be inserted nearer the switch, or nearer the router?

Hi @oldears - In my case due to the 50' run I'm more concerned with surge issues than noise.  The longer the Ethernet cable the more noise/chance of an EM induced surge pulse.  I put the isolator right before my home theater switch.

If I had more money I'd put one right before the streamer as well.

I do also run iFi power supplies for my streamer and DAC.

This thread is gonna grow some legs just like the OP's avatar.

Fiber and be done.

The switch in every system we have tried really makes an improvement in clarity, noise floor, etc.  Silent Angel makes an inexpensive one that works very well.

It is not one you have to go back and forth to hear the improvement either.