27-Aug-2022, 22:00
Used the ground lift adapter on the AES cable from the Berkeley Alpha USB going to the Expert 220 Pro. Results were readily apparent and similar to description by OP. Keeping this tweak.
Devialet 220 Expert Pro, George Merrilll Turntable, Lyra Etna Cartridge, Nordost Valhalla Speaker Wire, Sonus Faber Guarneri Speakers, Berkeley Alpha USB, NUC i7, LaCie 5TB HD.