I2S Input - Is It Better?

As I understand it, one must make sure that with HDMI I2S connections the pin orientation on both devices to be connected are the same. 

Actually it is hard to tell if I2S is actually superior for there are very few devices for sale that go directly into an I2S connection--that is other than those that convert either spdif or USB to I2S. A quality DAC should already have quality spdif and USB inputs with the conversion to I2S done internally.

Some DAC I2S connections use ethernet connectors; some use HDMI cables. Mine uses both. The ethernet cables are fairly easy for an amateur to alter to meet I2S needs. Some units that feed into I2S have a bunch of dip switches so that no specially made up HDMI cable is necessary.

But I2S, which is how a DAC communicates internally, has never been much use to audiophiles as there are very few units that feed directly into it--the reason being that there are so few DACs with an I2S input. There are some bridges feeding I2S that are relatively expensive and one reasonably priced that is not a terribly high performer. So all the R&D goes into those feeding USB or spdif.

So theoretically yes, but in practice no.

Who ever thought this could be so confusing?  Anyway, I ordered a Holo Audio May DAC and my CD transport is a Jay's Audio CD-2MK2.  The transport has an I2S output and the DAC has an I2S input.  I'm going to contact the two manufacturers to see what they recommend.  I'll report back if I find out anything useful.  

Contacting the manufactures is the best thing to do. If I had I2S capability on both devices I would want to try using it.

Go to the Jay Audio CD-2MK2 page and copy the pinout of the I2S, send it to the Holo May support and they should be able to tell you the position the dip switches need to be. I personally don’t see the point since the player only puts out redhook any of the connections would be fine I would use the AES/EBU.