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USB cable hype

Can someone explain the need for expensive USB cables for short runs? The only parameter of concern is impedance. I personally have verified error-free transmission in the Gbps range regardless of cable make/model as long as the cable length is short. There is no magic. It is just about impedance control to minimize loss and jitter. This is inexpensive in the MHz range. I will pay more for a cable that it is well built. I will not pay more for hocus pocus.
axle
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,394 posts
 
There are two possibilities:

You have synchronous USB DAC: Timing is controlled by the computer and is so jittery that your cable cannot possibly make any difference.

You have asynchronous USB DAC: Timing is controlled by the DAC. Cable or computer jitter does not make any difference.

Impedance of the USB cable is irrelevant.
axle OP
49 posts
 
"Impedance of the USB cable is irrelevant."

Over a long length cable, distributed capacitance will close the eye enough to to cause bit errors.
erikminer
433 posts
 
Have you listened to any?
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"03-08-15: Axle
Contrary to what you have assumed, I don't want to hear an answer that supports mine. I want to hear an answer that challenges mine.
Axle (Threads | Answers | This Thread)"

I've tried several usb cables and can hear differences between them.
axle OP
49 posts
 
Of course, you do. My question was, "Can you explain it"?
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