Break in for new DAC

Correct. When you separate components and remove eni contamination you normally get less smear and better clarity. 

less smear and better clarity. 

This will be the result of some vibration and resonance control as well. 

👍 @mclinnguy 

Placing components on a proper rack improves the sound. It’s tough to realize you have an issue with sound quality when you have not compared it to the same system set up properly. Been there, done that. 

@audphile1 

as a simple test you can order this gadget from amazon

So what are you getting around a metal enclosure such as an integrated amp / AVR vs a plastic enclosure like a modem and router? The metal enclosure is supposed to provide 'some' shielding.

@bartsw I’m getting a reading. I don’t remember the numbers. I spread my equipment so the components are at least 3ft away from one another’s power transformers. 
 

If you use that tool and measure around the area where a transformer is in an amp and raise the volume while music is playing, the reading changes as the amp draws more power from the wall and emits more EMI. 
 

I have my components on SolidSteel amp stands. Side by side. 
The router and the switch are at least 3 feet away from components.