Cary Xciter DAC : USB input hit by lightning

Yes Zd, I owned one. My intent was to agree with your post. I think Trisk’s option 2 seems the best. :-)

"02-01-15: Mesch
An outboard USB/SPDIF converter is the best option. Likely would improve the sonics over the supplied USB input."

That's what the Hiface2 is.

An outboard USB/SPDIF converter is the best option. Likely would improve the sonics over the supplied USB input.

"Will reverting to M2tech Hiface 2 + a new digital RCA cable connected to SPdif input of the DAC provide better sound from my PC than a High End USB cable connected to USB input of the DAC ?"

Yes. The Highface is designed to designed to reduce jitter. It allows you to bypass the clock in your computer, and use the clock in the Highface. It should give you a noticeable increase in sound quality.

You don't have to buy a very expensive cable either. Something like an Audioquest Cinnamon would be a good choice. You can probably get one in Best Buy. If you don't like it, you can always return it.

I think I made a mistake in observation. The M2tech Hiface 2 will probably require a new RCA digital cable so I will no longer need the Kimber Kable USB cable.
So the question now is : Will reverting to M2tech Hiface 2 + a new digital RCA cable connected to SPdif input of the DAC provide better sound from my PC than a High End USB cable connected to USB input of the DAC ?

Your homeowners/renters insurance policy may cover you for this.