I think I heard Audioengr's suggestion on a similiar post sometime back, about keeping USB cable length to a minimum, i.e. preferably 6' or less.
I'm running a benchmark DAC1 and couldn't agree more. I'm using a Belden gold USB 6' usb cable and when I substitute a 15' cable in it's place (same make), it honestly tames the dynamics. Very easy to tell the difference on acoustic tracks. I changed majors away from electrical engineering, so I can't wax on the technical aspects of why this is the case, but I wholeheartedly stand behind the viewpoint.
That said, it p@sses me off because I can't have the computer more than 6' from the DAC and amplifier it's tethered to, but it's a compromise for now.
I'm running a benchmark DAC1 and couldn't agree more. I'm using a Belden gold USB 6' usb cable and when I substitute a 15' cable in it's place (same make), it honestly tames the dynamics. Very easy to tell the difference on acoustic tracks. I changed majors away from electrical engineering, so I can't wax on the technical aspects of why this is the case, but I wholeheartedly stand behind the viewpoint.
That said, it p@sses me off because I can't have the computer more than 6' from the DAC and amplifier it's tethered to, but it's a compromise for now.