First I must clear the air, I am a audio dealer and yes I am a dealer for Birdland. I must also say they are hard to get, Birdland is not the fastest company when it comes to production but they do make a fantastic product. I believe the only way to use the Birdland is direct into your amp. The sound is much better, just think, you are eliminating one pair of interconnects and your preamp, both of those things add or subtract from the music. About digital cables, I have had good luck with the D60 from DH Labs and the new cables from Acoustic Zen. Birdland recommends trying a toslink if your transport has that option. Birland tells me, the toslink connections of today are much better than in the past. I have not tried it yet but will.
