Does the 'Buck' Start with the DAC?

@thyname  I have the i7 SGC server. I need the extra horsepower.

Regarding the Zenith Mk3 unit, it was only in my system for a few hours. At that time, I found it to be a toss up between my front end and the Innous...power cables/LPSs were a factor. I've made adjustments to the power side of my front end...and it is now performing above where it was when the comparison was made. Would the Mk3 + Phoenix surpass it, I cannot say, but I believe what I have vs that combo will be close. Which points to the Statement as the next step, should I go with Innuos.

I’m in the camp of it all matters. But my digital front end is 36% streamer : 64% DAC

Thanks @biketony

Innuos Statement would definitely be end-game for me on the server / streamer front. I just wish I had that much cash. Maybe one day. Probably at the next Statement MK2 😉

I just did a major upgrade on my streamer - so I'm now about 50/50 in cost between DAC and streamer.  

FWIW:

• DAC:  Mojo Mystique V3 - (single ended)
• Digital front:  DCS Network Bridge + GigaFoilv4 ethernet/optical filter

If I add the cost of  the new LPS's for my cable modem and the new gigafoil, as well as ethernet cables, I'm more at 45/55.

I was talking with the owner of Mojo Audio about 6 months ago.  His opinion was that I was only getting maybe 30% of the sonic quality of my DAC with my current streamer (modded Sonos Connect).  He's a big proponent of source, power and cables in digital.   After this recent upgrade, I agree - just phenomenal improvements to my ears.

I just ordered a BlackCat Digit 75 coax.  Hoping for a final boost.

Based on some of the responses here, it looks like you can fully isolate your DAC, whether Ethernet, USB, or otherwise for < $1,000. Given that, I am having a hard time understanding justification for a high end streamer?