I' easily discern differences between usb and I2S cables in my setup. Specifically, tried a less than $200 OFC I2S vs. Concentus Ximius, an all silver cable, well worth the extra cash, this with Denafrips Gaia to Musetec 006 and Laiv Harmony. A lesser quality cable may work well enough for demonstration/short term purposes but if you have very revealing setup you want cable that will allow full potential of that equipment to be heard.