Chord Qutest

OK, so there is much more flexibility with the Qutest over previous models.
I've read that each filter on a DAC needs break-in time. How many hours are on your unit now? I'd guess you should go for 200 hrs. on each filter that you use.

This review is in agreement with you regarding the playback of poor quality digital. This DAC seems to be very revealing.
https://www.avforums.com/review/chord-electronics-qutest-dac-review.15073

So, you've been using Tidal/Roon as your source. Have you tried any other sources such as CD or downloads? Trying a source using S/PDIF would be a good experiment.
I'm guessing you're using USB out from a PC; have you tried different cables? IME, different cable designs can change sonics dramatically.
If USB, are you using some type of noise reduction, such as an i Purifier?

Low,

I've run Amarra and JRiver as source.
Both are not nearly as good as Roon in sound quality.
I'm suprised at difference especially when using a parametic equalizer and Upsampling
The Roon is so much more delicate and refined in its sound.

I've used all the chord filters and they do change the sound with out interfering in the sound........making it muddy and thick

The incisive neutral really defines the transients...........
I use the red filter.

I do not think there is much break-in
It sounds the same, new or old

Anyway, I'm keeping the DAC & using ROON at dsd128.
This setting makes all the poor recording pretty gosh darn good
AND good stuff really good
Oh, I' m using a Mac Mini as source

pcm is really incisive and sharp. 
I bet the pcm would impart a dull/warm system lots of details and make it sound great
a resolving system would be over top...sharp

I'm happy running Dsd128 with the Qutest and keeping the dac.

FYI, The Playback Designs Merlot was the best DAC I've listened to, but $6500

I'm quickly becoming a fan of DSD playback and its associated big bass, smoother & detailed highs

vs PCM and all it incisive edge portrayal
The better the dac the sharper the edges, therefore poor stuff sounds like scraping glass to me.

Anyway, My thoughts

jeff

go Brewers
 

It's great that you've found a way to make the dac work for you. It seems like everybody loves ROON.
   My only advice is to audition different cables, many online dealers have trial periods.

Low:

Yes, Roon is surprisingly good vs the others.

what system and dac are you running?

cables & power stuff are important.

I changed the chord wall wart from my cheap power strip to VH audio's Furutech Hot Box and sound did change signals clay for the better.

IC Cables are next on my list

along with a turntable. 

Jeff

@frozentundra , I've been thru a few DACs since the Chord. I now have an Audio Note 2.1 Signature...love it. 
I still play CDs since I have a very large collection, mostly classical. I stopped playing audio files from my Mac due to the fact that Audio Note doesn't use USB, it's an option. Crazy, right?

I researched streamers and will be purchasing the Bluesound Node 2i. I'll do the 30 day trials and I'll also be able to stream from my Mac.