[nrthstr]

When it comes to procedures for USB signal improvement, there are two in particular that are acknowledged as worthwhile, but appear contradictory (to me, anyway): using a specific port solely for a converter/DAC & using a premium hub like the Vaunix for supplying cleaner DC power to a device. If it's a case of either/or, does one outweigh the other when better SQ is the goal?

[Jazz and Baroque]

Just for whatever it's worth, I was using a silver Kimber USB cable and switched to Wireworld Silver Starlight USB and heard an immediate improvement.  I know that many here will claim that this is impossible. 

Mike