op
you seem to have done your homework on the digital feed, with usb cleaning etc... you may well have a good source set up out of your computer, run through the aq cleaner
as for the 3.5 mm analog output jack, you state you are trading that convenience against sound quality, so it is a trade off you accept (if 3.5mm analog out was preferred over standard stereo rca or xlr connections they would be widespread in home gear, obviously)
as for dac choices, i have written much about my journey through at this point 30-40 modern and older well regarded dacs over the last couple years, a quick search will yield those and other related postings made by me and others
wish you good luck on finding the right dac for you
you seem to have done your homework on the digital feed, with usb cleaning etc... you may well have a good source set up out of your computer, run through the aq cleaner
as for the 3.5 mm analog output jack, you state you are trading that convenience against sound quality, so it is a trade off you accept (if 3.5mm analog out was preferred over standard stereo rca or xlr connections they would be widespread in home gear, obviously)
as for dac choices, i have written much about my journey through at this point 30-40 modern and older well regarded dacs over the last couple years, a quick search will yield those and other related postings made by me and others
wish you good luck on finding the right dac for you