As to the sound, if you think that it was euphonic, take it up with Gordan Rankin, the designer.
Huh? I was just offering an explanation for the very different sound that you heard - that's all. I suggest is unlikely to be caused by using a PC and most likely an effect from the DAC.
No criticism was intended at all. I have no axe to grind with Gordan Rankin, whoever he may be...
Since you heard a big difference it seems there might be an explanation no?
Sorry but I thought your statement "Game-Over" rather implied the end of CD players as a decent source. Naturally I think this is a slight exaggeration....and believe you found a sound that you personally like rather than a new paradigm in audio...