2. cables
  3. 180911-118590

How crucial is the quality of a digital cable?

I recently purchased a Cambridge Audio CX 81 integrated amp. The analog inputs sound great, but I find the internal DAC to be a disappointment. It uses the ESS Sabre ES9016K2M chip. I use a mid-level Rotel RCD 951 CD deck as a transport via the digital coax. I also hooked the deck via the analog out, just to compare. The analog interconnects are entry level AQ's. The digital coax is an Amazon purchase in the $15 range. I find the internal DAC of the 20 year old Rotel to be superior to the new AX 81, when doing an A/B.

What then confuses me is that the Blue Tooth streaming from the amp is quite good. It is HD aptX,  24-bit/84kHz capable. But, wouldn't that also go through the same internal DAC? Could it be the mediocre Amazon digital coax cable? I always assumed that digital cable quality was less significant than analog cables. Just bits and bites, right?

If someone knows of a decent digital coax for under $50, I would be very grateful. I would also appreciate any advice on an entry level power cord for the amp. Can a decent power cord be had for under $100? 

 

motown-l

Showing 1 response by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
6,445 posts
 

I remember long ago after experimenting with different analog interconnects thinking that digital could not matter. I swapped digital cables on a CD player / DAC combo thirty years ago ($500 each?) and my jaw dropped. It was as if someone walked in and swapped components several times more expensive. “But it shouldn’t mater!”

Well, you just never know until you try it.

 

I would look used (used cables.com) and try a 1/2 priced (originally) $100 cable from Cardas, or DHlabs

i would definitely look at a power cable for your integrated amp…these tend to really make a big difference, again, stretch and buy used.

Cables and interconnects can really make a difference. The best thing to do is to try some, maybe above your comfort zone. If you do not hear a big difference… then don’t waste your money. 
 

At some point in your audio journey you will get to the point when they will matter, big time, and you will reap the rewards of your experience.

 

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