Audio Grade Ethernet Cable

I wonder if having an integrated streamer/DAC would help avoid some of the noise issues?  Particularly if the unit is built with good shielding.  I did query the good people at Electrocompanient about this issue and they felt that a well shielded integrated unit, such as theirs, was somewhat protected from extraneous RFI.

I do understand the principle that separates have the potential to be better.  I would, however,  think a well designed combination unit would try to account for the potential pitfalls of internal noise.  I ultimately went with a combined DAC -Streamer to use my limited space more effectively.   I have to say, when comparing streamed music to the same tracks on CD ( via the same DAC ) I cannot hear any significant difference.  I think at some point we are striving for some very small incremental benefits in our sound systems.

Sorry, did not mean to stir things up.  Just was musing about the divergence between cost and benefit at the outer ends of our hobby.  I guess what I should be pondering is whether the above  discussed upgrades could bring my streaming beyond the CD / CD transport sound.