2. cables
  3. 153756-131340

Quality of digital cable from from source to DAC?

Hoping just to gain some understanding.

With respect to the transfer of digital data via metal cable in the audio spectrum, the seeming common thought I’ve managed to discern thus far is that while there is likely no apparent SQ differences to be gained in upgrading the quality of my Cat 6 ethernet cable that link my router (ATT Optical feeding an Apple Airport Extreme) to my streamer (50’ run of off the shelf Cat 6 feeding a Lumin D1), there seems to be considerable reviews claiming significant SQ improvements to be had in utilizing ‘higher quality’ digital cables linking the source (streamer or CD transport) to a DAC (Qutest). Why would this be? Is the digital data file going from the router to the streamer somehow different, or more suspect to error, than the digital data file going from the streamer to the DAC?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated, even if nothing more than passing a long a related link.

Thanks,
Todd
ecolnago

Showing 2 responses by mike_in_nc

mike_in_nc
1,121 posts
 
There is considerable divergence of opinion on the value of boutique cables when used for USB or Ethernet transmission. Some think they are vital, others find that the extra expense contributes little or nothing. So, I would expect the answers you receive to reflect that divergence.
mike_in_nc
1,121 posts
 
>> But my desire to have understanding of most things is strong, particularly when they effect both my happiness and my wallet. <<

Such understanding is where you will find the most divergence of opinions about cables. Manufacturers -- and their customers -- have many hypotheses about what makes certain cables special. (I use "hypothesis" in the scientific sense, to mean an unproven yet plausible idea -- what non-scientists often call a "theory." A theory in science is something supported by overwhelming evidence.) Most hypotheses about cables are not supported by unbiased science. Given that, it becomes a matter of what sounds better to each individual. For various reasons, it's easy to lose the distinction between slight differences and clear improvements.

There are strong incentives for manufacturers and dealers to steadily increase the prices of their products, as well as to offer numerous products at various price levels. Whether they do so in good faith is not for me to say.
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