Audio Systems: connection, digital audio cables, digital audio signal

Question
This is a follow-up question.


My understanding is that in a simple setup with source (DVD
player)-preamp-amp-speakers, digital audio signal from the dvd player can be
transmitted to the processor. Then the signal is converted to analog, goes
to amplifier, and then to the speakers. My question is: I use digital
audio cable for DVD-processor connection. Is there any reason and can I
use digital audio cables as well to connect processor to the amp, or
should I use just mono RCA analog audio cables for this purpose for each
channel (since the signal in the processor is converted to analog anyway)?

By the way, do you believe in cable differences pricewise/quality and
what do you know about monoprice cables?

Thanks a lot.

Sincerely,

Vlad  

Answer
You can use digital transfer if the amp has digital inputs - but most of them do not.  Without the make/model number or the specifications I cannot tell if digital is right for your power amp or not.

I am an engineer.  I am also an audio engineer.  I believe in objective and quantitative testing. I have challenged some of the "golden" cable makers to show me objective engineering results proving their cables sound better, perform better are superior in any way with those supplied in the box by the manufacturer.  I was once employed by one of the "big" manufacturers of audio equipment.  A cable manufacturer came to us and asked us to include his "golden" cables in the box because it would make everything sound better. We promised him we would do so if he could prove with tests and listening tests or show us how to conduct such tests and we would accept his offer.  After much discussion, testing and listening tests it was concluded his story was mostly marketing hype and not related to true engineering and objective analysis.

Further, I have personally conducted lab tests and listen tests on all kinds of interconnect cables preamp to power amp and power amp to speakers.  I have not found any expensive cables that meet their claims nor show superior performance in any material way.  In my own case I use the most convenient and cheapest cables that I can find. For speaker wire I use zip cord from the hardware store and for rca cable I get them at the dollar store or wherever they are low in cost.  

I would have no trouble using the low cost monoprice or other cheap cables.  

If you want to discuss these matters further please let me know.

C