I'm getting a bit off topic here, sorry, but perhaps you should consider an R2R DAC. I see in your bio you're using a delta sigma DAC and these are known to sound more "digital" than R2R DACs. Many people find that R2R DACs give them a more organic vinyl-like sound. I suggest looking at Holo Audio Cyan 2 and Gustard R26. And if you have deep pockets, check out the Holo Audio Spring 3 and May.Absolutely agree about sounds benefits and sound pains. I thought I would be annoyed by the hassle, but I find that I enjoy the ritual. On that note, I am concerned that my wife and I are drawn to warm distortion (part of the ritual) more than better SQ, which kind of defeats the purpose of using estats. The higher noise floor is also unmistakably annoying.
What I notice though is that with vinyl no instrument or note ever sounds the slightest bit (pun intended!) off in terms of timing. As in, ever. I've never bought an external clock for digital, but maybe that's the draw for clocks, as my digital setup, as "perfect" as it sounds in so many ways, never sounds consistently perfectly timed.
Now, if distortion is the cause for everything always seeming in its right place with vinyl, then please direct me to the Distortion section of your local library. For now I look forward to a week off from work and many many AB tests
You may be able to avoid pivoting to vinyl simply by making your digital music sound less digital