I am getting exasperated with this forum.
I came into computer audio with no prejudice. If there is bias, the bias is towards my shiny new toy. I do not want to believe that my brand new PC is inferior to the setup it is replacing.
I listen honestly, and I report the results. I do come across a few surprises, for example I did not expect that the optical drive on the PC would sound better than FLAC. But it does. I was skeptical about the effect of a linear PSU. The vendor offered a money back guarantee if I was not satisfied with my purchase. So I took a leap of faith, knowing that the only money I will lose is in the cost of shipping. And it works. Really well.
Given that my specialist knowledge is in another field, and not in computers, or computer audio - I am not able to explain why. Or even prove my perception with measurements. All I can tell you is that I am happy to submit myself to a blind test to "prove" that these tics, pops, and the difference in sound is quite real. BUT WHY THE HELL SHOULD I DO THAT! Just to prove to some random doubter on the internet? Do you really think I should rush out and buy an oscilloscope and get a degree in audio engineering just to prove to people that I am not lying? I am not out to convince you, or even sell something. I am just here reporting my experience!