Cables to settle brightness

@earthtones I am considering the Sonore optical converter boxes.  Reasonably priced, and returnable if it doesn't do the trick.  My digital chain is already kind of a Rube Goldberg contraption, and this would make it moreso.  But if it works, who cares?  As soon as I have the budget for it, I will try it and report back.

@fittebd my old DAC was a highly modified Beresford, maxed out at 96/24 and lacked USB.  I still have it, so if I had some time, I could go from the UltraDigital to the Beresford with a coax cable.  I have enough inputs on my pre to hook both DACs up at once.  I would need a pair of decent ICs, though.  I know I really should do this, as it would tell me if it's the DAC or all the other stuff preceding it.  Yes, I have an inexpensive network switch, and no, I have not upgraded its power supply.

The Sonore will mask much of the noise generated by a generic network switch.  That is what it was designed to do.  My guess if is its really that new to you, new sound is different and takes time to adjust.  You could try just putting the old DAC back and see what happens.  not the best A/B, but you can tell if the harshness goes.  Then try different interconnects and see if that helps with new DAC

Another vote for Cardas Clear Reflection, definitely smooth and musical.

I personally use Cardas Clear Beyond IC and SC but my system is not bright.

@rolox

+1

I think you bring up a very importanr point. Ideally you want your components to sound perfect together before working on cable / interconnects. Then you choose cabling to enhance detail and maybe lower noise floor. So, you will be looking for neutral quiet wires.

This is the most important approach to really high performance audio. Get things perfectly balanced at the component level, then wires, power, room treatments, and finally vibration control. This is how you get to the very best and most cost effective sound.