Types and reason to use of not

Great answers, thanks, I will bypass the optical, go for trying my old RCA on my new set up first. I am getting an Anthem STF integrated and a second Anthem STF power Amp. for the second pair of speakers.  The STF integrated has a Room Correction digital process system inside and likely works better processing digital signals.  The AES/EBU port on back looks like an XLR, but is a single port, not L & R.   My lack of understanding of cables prompted me to ask.  I guess a Coaxial cable has ends like an RCA, but a coaxal shield to stop EMF.  I assume the better RCA cables that are shielded are not the true "Coaxial" digital cable and I need to get the true Coaxial cable, not just a shielded RCA?  

Digi cables have nothing to do with shielding. Just 75 ohm coax terminated in RCA or BNC plugs. An analog RCA analog cable will often work but they are not purpose built. Coax and digital cables are NOT the same.

Go back to your Lear Jets.

The AES/EBU port on back looks like an XLR, but is a single port, not L & R.

If you're going to use the AES/EBU XLR connection, make sure the cable is rated for AES/EBU service, and is a 110 ohm cable.   

dpop, thanks, the 110 ohm spec is clear to me now, if I use the XLR port marked AES?EBU, I will make sure the 110 ohm rating is present. like the Coax using the RCA, the AES/EBU uses the XLR end, but the cable between ends is different/better.  

I know nothing about Lear Jets, or electronics, I am a retired water professional. Music lovers can love good stereos, and be at a loss for specs & DOS type glossary.  I was wanting to avoid spending money on a cable that was not needed. 

I know nothing about Lear Jets

You mentioned 8-tracks, and I believe William Lear and Learjet Corp. designed the 8-track tape. 

 I was wanting to avoid spending money on a cable that was not needed. 

In this hobby, we audio-enthusiasts try different combinations of cables and equipment. We're constantly in search of the best audio reproduction we can achieve with our gear. Many of us simply use our ears to determine what sounds best to us in our environment. It's all very much a learning experience.