How crucial is the quality of a digital cable?


I recently purchased a Cambridge Audio CX 81 integrated amp. The analog inputs sound great, but I find the internal DAC to be a disappointment. It uses the ESS Sabre ES9016K2M chip. I use a mid-level Rotel RCD 951 CD deck as a transport via the digital coax. I also hooked the deck via the analog out, just to compare. The analog interconnects are entry level AQ's. The digital coax is an Amazon purchase in the $15 range. I find the internal DAC of the 20 year old Rotel to be superior to the new AX 81, when doing an A/B.

What then confuses me is that the Blue Tooth streaming from the amp is quite good. It is HD aptX,  24-bit/84kHz capable. But, wouldn't that also go through the same internal DAC? Could it be the mediocre Amazon digital coax cable? I always assumed that digital cable quality was less significant than analog cables. Just bits and bites, right?

If someone knows of a decent digital coax for under $50, I would be very grateful. I would also appreciate any advice on an entry level power cord for the amp. Can a decent power cord be had for under $100? 

 

motown-l

Get this.  It’s $55 for a 1m cable and you can just return it if it doesn’t make a meaningful improvement.  Just make sure u pay attention to the faint directional arrows as they are not just a suggestion.  I installed mine backwards once and it was a disaster.  Let it burn in for at least 100 hours and I think you’ll be pleased.  Best of luck. 

https://smile.amazon.com/Geistnotes-Apogee-Wyde-Cable-WE-RR/dp/B01N29180M/ref=sr_1_2?crid=VNMELZ4YFLU5&keywords=apogee%2Bwyde%2Beye&qid=1668742946&sprefix=Apogee%2Bwyd%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-2&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.08f69ac3-fd3d-4b88-bca2-8997e41410bb&th=1

@soix +1  This cable is surprisingly good. Don't be fooled by the cost. Easy return on Amazon if it's not a good fit for you.

I am very grateful to all who responded. The tone of responses was also very positive. No knocks for having a lower budget set up than most on the site.

I will be experimenting with some of the suggested cables and cords. I can post the results if anybody is interested. As we are heading into the holidays, it may take a while to purchase and install.