Relationship between Ethernet Switch and SQ

@audphile1 

FYI - Aurender’s operating system is stored and loaded from an SSD, that is also used for the system cache.

Thanks so much for all the food for thought.  I did not think I would immediately make a purchase based in this thread...but I did.  It may surprise you (for those who care to read on), but I include my reasons.  I bought …..another Bryston(!) - a BDP3.  Reasoning (following a moderate amount of research):

1. I like the BDP2, and the BDP3 should provide some sonic uplift.
2. My system has moved from silver to black - replacing a silver 2 with a black 3.
3. The Bryston user interface is terrible - web based, and similar to a 1982 personal computer.
4. ,,,which means a lot of people steer clear based on the interface.  But I am very comfortable with it at this point, including all the configuration details, and it is very reliable.
5. Research generated a largely consistent message of: BDP3 is underrated, excellent SQ (cruddy interface).
6. I just run AES/EBU.  For USB, I’m sure an Innuos Zenith Mk 3 + Phoenix (and certain other high-end gear mentioned here) would likely exceed. 
7. Very clean unit negotiated for $2350 used (plus tax and shipping). 
8. Great company with great build quality and support.
9. 2 or 3 years from now, digital will likely have advanced again - I will reassess after having good sound at good value for a few more years.

So that’s what I did! Somebody may argue that was a poor play for some reason, but not much lost if so.  Thanks again for your input!

@mathiasmingus congrats on the purchase! The BDP3 if my memory serves is Roon ready. I’d give that a shot for the free trial period and compare the sound quality of Manic Moose vs. Roon. I’ve seen the Bryston software and I am pretty sure Roon is leaps and bounds better. Worth every penny especially when contrasted against the Moose. 
 

@lalitk thanks…didn’t know that. 

@audphile1 Oh yes, BDPs are Roon ready and I am a Roon user.  (Again with configuration details that may throw the unitiated).  I have not critically compared whether the Moose may sound better - I believe at least one person suggested so.  Which leads to the topic for another thread - I am DONE with Windows 11!  I used a dedicated Windows 11 laptop as my Roon core, and after the last Roon update, I have not been able to get Roon and Windows Defender to cooperate.  Enough.  Bought a used Roon nucleus which is in transit! And LPS to accompany.

That sounds like a good setup! Enjoy!