I own the Melco Data Server N1zh2 6TB version that I like.
The Melco switch is on loan to try with it and the rest of my system - it is totally new so I found it needed the run-in to open it out - in sounded good immediately but a lot more to come.
The ER was inspired from all the tinkering and wanting to try a switch that had HiFi in its design intent which as good as the Cisco is does not.
Having said that the outlay for the two Cisco switches is about a 5th the cost of the ER which in turn is a 3rd the cost of the Melco.
The Cisco is definitely the least cost way of getting a great result.
The ER and Melco are more capable but different in their presentation and qualities - I have not had either for long enough to be fair to them but they are good products with different signatures so far.
The ER is beginning a bit feisty but incredibly capable with detail and quiet backgrounds - but I’m hearing a strong interaction with cables, so these need to be right for the given system.
The Melco switch has a charming ‘neutrality’ to it and also quiet and detailed. Neutrality can be the most difficult quality to attain and easy initially dismissed but hungered-for later so you need to get used to what that brings to the replay chain and system presentation.
Unfortunately I could see myself liking both for different reasons. But great these products are appearing now.
Both ER and Melco are up-gradable with better PS modules so that is useful, but both come with very capable small dongle SM supplies that seem to be good.
DB.