@shadorne , I'm now wondering about the SQ of the output stage. I don't think it's a matter of taste, it's more that the DAC produces the typical digital artifacts we expect to be corrected.
There are so many positive reviews, both pro and user, that state how smooth this DAC can sound when fed a quality stream such as from another PS Audio device. I've even been on the PSA forum regarding my issue.
There is a passive analogue output filter in the design, but as Steve N. has pointed out...
There are a lot of variables, even when using a transport, including
jitter, digital filtering in the DAC and DAC output stage and power
system. Any of these can make it sound "digital".
I have taken the advice from the PS Audio forum and installed a PSA power cord and am using a Blue Circle passive conditioner. Noise floor is so quiet and soundstage is wide and deep.
As per Steve's advice, I stopped using ferrite filtering in my power conditioning.
For analogue output, I have changed IC's and PC's, checked for open grounds with a meter, and now I'm going direct from DAC into Amp. But I still wonder if the high output voltage could be the cause (specific to my system).
I have reached out to The Cable Company regarding a DAC from their lending library. They only have a PS Audio and a Chord Hugo available.
