Interesting story! I had similar findings when initially I used an Audioquest Vodka with a similar combo, English Electric 8, powered by SA Forester 1. Swapping the AQ Vodka into an Ansuz A2 ethernet cable greatly improved the sound: more natural vocals and instruments, tighter bass and decreased noise level. Enjoying the (pricey) upgrade!
@JTheKop : did you compare the original basic black DC-cable with the upgraded SA Bastei Orange cable?