Nothing to feel bad about. Source differences can be much more subtle than amp differences, and can take longer to identify. At least in my experience.
Was feeling rather homicidal at work today.
Put on one of the living stereos, and now this one.
Now those folks at work will never know how close they came!
OK, time for a stupid question.
Can you use an aftermarket power cord that accepts 3 prongs on the Sony XA-5400ES, even though it only provides 2 prongs on its IEC outlet?
I'm assuming its ok to do this, as opposed to using a 2 prong chord on a 3 prong IEC outlet?
example
It can take a little while to discover the deficiencies and charms of a dac.
When I upgraded from an EMU 404 USB to the DAC3, I could tell some difference right away, but after a few months or so with the DAC3, I went back to the EMU to compare and practically threw up.