I found that my Gaia and T+ sounded excellent with modest priced cables, but there were subtle improvements from higher-end cables. I am currently using an AQ Diamond USB to the Gaia and a Tubulus Argentus i2S cable between the Gaia and T+, with DH Labs D75 coax cables for the clock connections.
But I would agree with the dealer that recommended spending the money on the power cables if your budget is limited. Even a $12 HDMI cable used for the i2s connection sounded very good.
I've been very impressed with the DH Labs digital cables. For a fairly modest price, you could use their cables for all three (HDMI, USB, Coax) and I suspect you'd be very satisfied.
But I would agree with the dealer that recommended spending the money on the power cables if your budget is limited. Even a $12 HDMI cable used for the i2s connection sounded very good.
I've been very impressed with the DH Labs digital cables. For a fairly modest price, you could use their cables for all three (HDMI, USB, Coax) and I suspect you'd be very satisfied.