Diagnosing a streaming failure

@soix Internet speed should not be an issue. 1Gb fiber, Ethernet connected. Speed checks are good. I did clear the cashe. Thanks!

@cleeds Ethernet connected to main router. Thanks!

@audphile1 That makes sense. I did buy the Cardas new, but prefer to keep it as it warmed things up nicely over my XLO ultra plus… unless this problem will introduce distortion. Thanks!

@soix @audphile1 While I have you SME’s quick question on my previous post. What do you think about the Mojo Audio Mystique SE DAC for my system. It is available on TMR, great reviews, perfect form factor, good price. Thanks!

@signaforce I may have not been clear about what I proposed to do with Cardas. I was talking about having them exchange this cable for the same model but one that doesn’t exhibit this issue. It’s a defective USB. Talk to them. They should send a replacement. 
As to your DAC question…I really don’t know much about Mojo Audio. But…TMR has a return policy. I would recommend calling them. I normally work with Ryan there. He’s knowledgeable and will explain the sound characteristics as well as their return policy. 

@audphile1 i did misunderstand you. Will be an interesting discussion! Thank you for the TMR contact. 
 

I haven’t heard your Qutest or the Mojo, but from everything I’ve read they’re very different sound profiles with the former being more of a white wine and the latter much more of a red, so the question becomes if it goes too far in the other direction for your tastes.  If you’re looking for a warmer/fuller sound you may love the Mojo or you might find it a little too much of a good thing and/or too polite up top so having the ability to return it is key I’d think.  FWIW.

Can you swing the PS Audio DSD MkII? They have a few pre-owned units. It’s supposed to be a nice upgrade from the MkI. You might be able to bargain that down another 10-15%. If you can fit it into your audio rack I’d try that before I spend more for Mojo. I believe the PS Audio comes equipped with network input for firmware upgrades and Roon ready functionality.