Why do different USB ports sound different?

[LongKick64]

I have an Intel NUC10i5FNH mini-computer and a Topping MX3s DAC. Why does the DAC sound different when connected to different USB ports? Both USB ports are USB 3.1 gen2. This is not self-hypnosis, I even did blind testing to make sure. Which USB port should I choose? The one that I like the sound from more?

 

[dunring]

Some ports have more noise from their location than others. There's a phone app I use called EMI detector which is free. It uses the magnetometer in your phone to detect interference. Just have to move it the same distance away from each port and you'll see the reading. The lowest number is the good one. Also download USB chipset drivers from the manufacturer if you can, they can help with performance. Most important is go into device manager and uncheck the power management tab check box for all USB hubs and ports. The last couple of updates to Windows it's been turning them back on, which is a pain for audio equipment when power it reduced or cut to a DAC.

 

[LongKick64]

Some ports have more noise from their location than others. There's a phone app I use called EMI detector which is free. It uses the magnetometer in your phone to detect interference. Just have to move it the same distance away from each port and you'll see the reading. The lowest number is the good one. Also download USB chipset drivers from the manufacturer if you can, they can help with performance. Most important is go into device manager and uncheck the power management tab check box for all USB hubs and ports. The last couple of updates to Windows it's been turning them back on, which is a pain for audio equipment when power it reduced or cut to a DAC.

Thank you! I will definitely try it.