There is a similar discussion at the Computer Audiophile site/forum you may want to review. I would start with the USB Hub as the potential problem. It seems interesting the static occurred after getting the upgrade performed and not before. The Hub at the computer or Ayre could be the problem and least expensive to troubleshoot. Good luck resolving the issues.
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f8-general-forum/static-noise-28296/index2.html
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f8-general-forum/static-noise-28296/index2.html