Hi Loren. Thanks for responding. In your first paragraph when you mention 2 options. Are they not the same? Or for your first suggestion do you mean connect the Phoenix to the router (direct internet) and bypass the switch?
I bought an 8m Shunyata Omega ethernet cable. I tried it connected to the switch and directly to the router. I for some reason it sounds a bit better and cleaner on the router. I don't know if it is true though and just my mind playing tricks.
Overall the sound quality is great. I can't complain about the sound coming out of my system. The Phoenix seems to be fine on the standing desk and I move it up and down at least 3 times a day and I don't hear any major differences.