Basic switch....should I upgrade?

@antigrunge2 I'm not sure about your point. Regardless of whether ethernet latency issues are a significant problem or not, why degrade latency deliberately (multiple switches) only to have to add more circuitry down the line, easily addressing (debatable) the issue you've introduced or not.

We are talking about the ethernet signal, clearly in the digital domain, not a non-ethernet digital stream decoded by a DAC.

I spoke to an EE friend who is designing next generation 6G hardware; i.e. he knows something about this topic. I asked about stacking switches. He quickly replied that the addition of each switch degrades latency. Pure and simple.

So, the good news; properly dealing with ethernet is important. Apparently, deliberately degrading the signal is changing the sound. Just like other areas of audio, some types of distortion can seem to be a solution for other issues.

The bad news, properly dealing with ethernet is important. Stacking switches is not a solution.

@sns What mods did you perform on your Cisco gear?

@sns I apogize, my mistake. My question should have been directed to @jerrybj (please share your Cisco mods).

Otherwise, thank you for your post. I agree with everything you said. Kind of like the early days of vinyl; we've come a long way. Like you, I am optimistic.

@jerrybj Thank you. Interesting.

@fredrik222 Please share your network and streaming configuration with us.

@fredrik222 Thank you.