Not to throw another dimension into the mix, but I recently sent my USB reclocker device (Innuos PhoenixUSB) from Innuos back to have the USB connector replaced due to a somewhat loose connection. I bought the unit earlier this year as a store demo so I guess the loose connection is a result of that. Hopefully they repair it under warranty.
I mention this because I’m absolutely floored by how much I miss not having the device in my system. I don’t think I realized how much of a difference it made. In particular higher frequency detail is clobbered, making snare drums and “air” seem rolled off and restrained. I’m noticing less soundstage depth for sure.
It’s crazy to think that I have all this excellent gear but I can’t be happy with it without this one USB reclocker device, having become used to my system’s performance with the device in the chain. Ultra premium streamers wouldn’t need benefit from such a device, but wow I sure miss not having it in my system! I hope to get it back soon.