The type of cable or the cable itself is not generally the issue but rather the designer's implementation of the connection interface at both the source end and the receiver (i.e., DAC) end. Isolation, grounding, power, and more all make a difference. As an example, JCAT makes a USB CARD XE selling for $909, which is said to be an excellent USB interface when properly implemented. The point is, rather than generalize one type of cable/connection being inherently better than another, use what sounds best with your specific gear. If you like your DAC, and it only accepts a coax (S/PDIF) input, then make sure your streamer/server offers a good coax output, or use a commensurately capable converter or DDC.
Coax SP/DIF to USB..thoughts?
I now have a DAC ( I like this DAC a lot, so it is not getting replaced) that only uses a CoAx input and does not have the ability to input USB. Many streamers seem to utilize just USB as their output. There are a few USB to SP/DIF cable converters out there, but I have not heard any of these cables, nor do i know anyone who has. For those who have heard this type of conversion, is this a good way to go?
Personally, i prefer the SQ of a CoAx cable to most all of the USB cables i have heard. Thoughts?