Exactly my point in the first post in this thread, the reason why getting the DAC close to the output is a good idea in my opinion to minimize those types of op

Exactly my point in the first post in this thread, the reason why getting the DAC close to the output is a good idea in my opinion to minimize those types of opportunities for interference on otherwise reasonably priced equipment (DAC/headphone amp plus decent headphones for under USD400, or DAC with balanced outputs and active monitors for under USD1000). Balanced cabling and signalling is only a bonus but recommended for active studio monitors.