USB Cable

+2 @soix , @ghdprentice 

using any PC in lieu of a quality dedicated server/streamer is a significant downgrade and compromise in audio performance, that no USB cable upgrade can fix.

Choose wisely 

I cannot argue with anyone's experience, but my experience with USB cables is that they make a very big difference. I suggest you get the best one you can find on Used Cables. com.  Wireworld's best (the red ones) from one generation ago sould do very well. I'm using a Zafino (spelling approximate - I'm away from home) from Canada which is the best i've found. Happy listening!

First of all you said nothing about the quality of your system ,or dac 

being an ex Audio dealer how can I recommend anything without needed information. To budget to match your system 

cables  can go over $2k. , stock Ethernet ,cables and usb like Pangea, or Beldon 

are starting points , for in the under $250 range Wireworld starlight both usb,and Ethernet is very respectable ,and very good for the money if your dac is $1k or less.

My system is ARC Ref 6 SE preamp, ARC Ref 80s amplifier, ARC Ref CD9/DAC, Quad 2812 esl speakers, Transparent Audio cables for all

OP,

Holy cow! Definitely get a streamer of that caliber… I recommend an Aurender W20SE given the rest of your system.

Our systems are very similar… Audio Research REF 6SE, REF CD9SE DAC, and for me ref 160s and m. You definitely want the Aurender W20SE… I have had a host of lessor streamers (including PCs, MacBooks.. etc) and an Aurlic Aries G2, Aurender N100, N10, and W20SE, and a Grimm. Each of these steps was a big upgrade. The W20SE moved the sound up to the level of my outstanding analog end… Audio Research Ref 3 / 3SE Phonostage and my near Klimax Linn LP12 with Koetsu Rosewood Signature.