DAC Hat vs. Other DAC?

[Jandu]

Hi,

I have the IQ Audio DAC hat/rpi4 set up. 

I don’t have the deep knowledge in regards to the technical side of this.
I read some posts mention USB is dirty noise wise and affects sound quality.
In what application would this apply? PC to DAC?...
Thanks

USB has noises which affects music, this applies to RPi as well. Mainly, USB takes both data signal and electricity from the RPi with the same device. If your equipment has sufficient resolution, using better power supply for your RPi will result in better sound quality. This also applies to DAC Hat set up as well. 

The best way is to try it out, if you have a better power supply. Examples of better power supply for RPi:

GaN power converter 
linear power supply for RPi

Let us know if you find any difference.