3728 is quite right. "Optical" cables have taken a bad rap recently largely due to the confusion between toslink (plastic connectors with multi-mode fiber) and "AT&T" (ST-type connectors with single-mode fiber). There are also differences due to the transport/DAC manufacturers knowledge and concern in execution of the optical driver/receivers. In other words, not all optical interfaces are created equal. Goldmund digital is a perfect example. The optical interface was not just an afterthought, but a preferred engineering solution even though it is offered as an "optional" input/output on their products. As always, use your ears to determine what works best for you in your system.
Why are optical cables jitter prone?
A friend of mine convinced me to purchase an electrical (RCA jack) digital cable for the home theater. He said that even though optical looks neat, it is extremely succeptible to jitter. I thought both kinds were. But, low and behold, I switched to the RCA type and my bass immediately got louder and tighter. Does anyone have a short and sweet explanation as to why? Thanks.