Why do digital cables sound different?

My understanding is that the necessary functionality to decode the digital signal on the receiving end is a macro function compared to current digital technology. I may not have really poor vision, but I can still tell when it is day vs. night with ease.

I can understand a little of the timing and jitter discussions, but when using an asynchronous DAC there should t be any concern about data loss prior to the DAC, right?

I find it ironic that we assume some level of signal degeneration when using a digital cable, but trust wireless connections to do the job. When my wireless connection has a transfer issue there is a distinct pause in the music.

Mapman - it doesn't help that the vast majority assume themselves to be immune to placebo and the power of expectations. It is alway blamed on inferior hearing and the number of audiophiles that believe they heard something and then later convinced themselves otherwise is approaching zero.

I don't think it has anything to do with being smart or not. It the way our brains work, including mine. We all think we are the exception to the rule.