Best way to "optimize for audio" is to use Ethernet and get the commercial computer gear away from the system. This is why Sonore Rendu products exist. The Rendu streamers are actually "optimized for audio" and by that I mean:
1. Ultra low noise power supplies.
2. A custom main board with multiple power supply domains, each one powered by its own ultra low noise linear regulator (you will never find this in a commercial MoBo)
3. On the ultraRendu and Signtaure Rendu SE, a femto clock to govern all processing and USB audio duties (yes, phase noise of this clock matters) with a dedicated supply rail.
4. Specially selected USB hub for output with the best possible signal integrity (not the cheapest part, the best part)
5. A specially developed operating system designed just for audio playback and nothing else, this reduces processing power and noise further.
It is rather amusing to me that audiophiles who do not question the need for special power cables, "optimized for audio", think it is perfectly OK to attach a commercial grade laptop directly to a DAC via USB and expect top sound quality in playback.
1. Ultra low noise power supplies.
2. A custom main board with multiple power supply domains, each one powered by its own ultra low noise linear regulator (you will never find this in a commercial MoBo)
3. On the ultraRendu and Signtaure Rendu SE, a femto clock to govern all processing and USB audio duties (yes, phase noise of this clock matters) with a dedicated supply rail.
4. Specially selected USB hub for output with the best possible signal integrity (not the cheapest part, the best part)
5. A specially developed operating system designed just for audio playback and nothing else, this reduces processing power and noise further.
It is rather amusing to me that audiophiles who do not question the need for special power cables, "optimized for audio", think it is perfectly OK to attach a commercial grade laptop directly to a DAC via USB and expect top sound quality in playback.