Solo streamer

You’re so right about that. It’s very, very difficult to get out of.  I started it but I think I stopped it in time.  As we know, the thing is to concentrate on the music.

Both sides in this debate are correct.

1- It's a terrible decision if the OP sticks with his DAC and there is zero reason to  think he will.

2- When he upgrades his DAC he will be ahead of the game.

Had a momentary blackout in the house yesterday. Aurender was on and lost connection to the tablet. Worked for hours to reestablish it. No luck. Called Aurender. They were not available. Turned it on this morning. Now working perfectly.

Mysterious!
 

btw, I played an LP of a Haydn symphony that I know sounds wonderful.  Compared it to the same performance on Aurender.  Sounded identical.  
Digital performance has evidently been perfected.

Sorry to hear. My rule of thumb on anything with networks / devices is… the moment you get into a problem… reboot the iPad, if this doesn’t fix it, start at the source and work forward: reboot the router, extender, and finally the streamer.

Did you try CLM with Coax input to your DAC? 

My Innuos Statement streamer is supposed to be optimized for USB and yet the Ethernet output sounds better.  My Lampizator GG3 DAC is supposed to be optimized  for USB input with the new JL Audio USB board and yet the S/PDIF sounds best (I use BNC but have been told AES3 is best and am currently gathering coin for a Jorma Digital XLR).

I think some of the USB hoopla manufactures tout is for marketing to keep up the competitions claims.  I don't believe USB is the best source or input.

Also, keep in mind as your gear gets better you really need to invest $$$ in your cables whether USB, S/PDIF or Ethernet and to realize the potential of your streamer along with at least one quality audiophile switch and an Ethernet filter like Network Acoustics will lower the noise level appreciably.

Upstream sound quality has a bigger impact than downstream.  You are better off with a better streamer than DAC.