well, a bridge is a bridge is a bridge, at times.
some very likely are better than others… but if it is all one has, and they wish to get file playback from PC or NAS, use a mobile device as the remote/controller, and not use USB…. well there you are with a LAN connection over ethernet or wy Fy to the ‘bridge’ instead, if a late model Oppo is handy.
use DLNA protocol to fuel the Oppo du jour, via the analog outs or feed the ??? DAC via digital interfaces and or HDMI
grab the A+ remote for $10 off the app store and you can sit in the sweet spot and control playback, with or without a dAC.
to date… regardless which conduit I’ve used to get access and playback of files from a NAS or hard drive, ie., Hiface, RME sound card, Lynx Sound card, M Audio SC,or even a mediocre UsB sound card to feed the ??? DAC, each time, depending on the quality of the ??? interface device, the sound quality either was made different or in fact escalated respective to the gizmo between the files and the dAC.
in the end, as you said, you will run what you feel is the best route to the best sQ. regardless. and that is what this past time is indeed all about.
until another ‘approach’ and its funding arrives, it is what it is.