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USB cable hype

Can someone explain the need for expensive USB cables for short runs? The only parameter of concern is impedance. I personally have verified error-free transmission in the Gbps range regardless of cable make/model as long as the cable length is short. There is no magic. It is just about impedance control to minimize loss and jitter. This is inexpensive in the MHz range. I will pay more for a cable that it is well built. I will not pay more for hocus pocus.
axle
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I don't understand the reason for your question. You're telling us, in no uncertain terms, what the answer is. Have you ever been to the website Hydrogen Audio? I think you'll get the answer that you're looking for over there.
axle OP
49 posts
 
There are two reasons for the question: 1) there could be something I don't know, like some manufacturing issues with USB cables (but even then I doubt the solution would necessarily be expensive) and 2) spread the word.
axle OP
49 posts
 
Contrary to what you have assumed, I don't want to hear an answer that supports mine. I want to hear an answer that challenges mine.
kijanki's avatar
kijanki
4,428 posts
 
There are two possibilities:

You have synchronous USB DAC: Timing is controlled by the computer and is so jittery that your cable cannot possibly make any difference.

You have asynchronous USB DAC: Timing is controlled by the DAC. Cable or computer jitter does not make any difference.

Impedance of the USB cable is irrelevant.
axle OP
49 posts
 
"Impedance of the USB cable is irrelevant."

Over a long length cable, distributed capacitance will close the eye enough to to cause bit errors.
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