Solo streamer

My condolences for your lack of a streamer.  It must be tough.

I just tried an experiment. I played critical mode using coax instead of USB and the sound improved. I’m going to keep in on this setting for a while.

Once you start to listen for sound, you really screw up your perception of reality. Every little thing is scrutinized and you lose track of the big picture, the music.  
i’m happiest with my original settings and sticking with them.  I also like seeing the display.

I’ve seen some negative reviews (based on issues around the software side) of the iFi Zen Stream, but I’ve owned one for a few years, now (Roon only), and it’s never had problems. I’ve "upgraded" it by getting a Chinese standalone power supply geared toward the ZS and a low-priced DDC to convert the USB output to IIS. Both upgrades made it even better, and for the foreseeable future I’m keeping this setup. I’m currently trying out a Gustard A26 - which has its own streaming built in - and the Zen Stream is much better than the one in the Gustard.

Post post: I missed the part where you indicated what you've purchased; enjoy in good health.

@rvpiano definitely keep it setup the way it sounds best to you! Enjoy the music and don’t use it to evaluate your equipment - it’s the mode that’s nearly impossible to get out of

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.