Why do digital cables sound different?

My understanding is that the necessary functionality to decode the digital signal on the receiving end is a macro function compared to current digital technology. I may not have really poor vision, but I can still tell when it is day vs. night with ease.

I can understand a little of the timing and jitter discussions, but when using an asynchronous DAC there should t be any concern about data loss prior to the DAC, right?

I find it ironic that we assume some level of signal degeneration when using a digital cable, but trust wireless connections to do the job. When my wireless connection has a transfer issue there is a distinct pause in the music.

Mceljo, there are only 3 non-overlaping channels in 2.4GHz WiFi. My microwave operates on one of the channels interrupting my music while neighbors operate on two other channels with routers most likely set to max power. I switched to 5GHz. It gives me 23 non-overlaping channels, practically nobody uses it (not very popular), no sources of interference, and poor penetration thru the walls keeping offending signals (if any) away.
I bough 5GHz WiFi USB adaptor for my old MacMini and dual band Linksys router. Receiver (Airport Express) can receive both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. No more dropouts.

I agree with you Kijanki. I have a dual band router as well but cannot use the 5ghz signal because it simply is too weak. My wireless router is upstairs and my listening room is downstairs in the corner of the house. That said, I believe you can still get a strong, reliable signal from 2.4ghz. Most people do not change the default channel on their wireless router. Just changing my channel greatly increased not only throughput but also reliability. For those who are having wireless issues on their 2.4ghz band I highly suggest playing around with the channels first to see if it solves the problem.

"Why is it so darn difficult for some people to accept the simple fact that some listeners have better hearing ability than others; wether because of physiological differences, experience, or training? "

ITs not hard to accept that, but knowing who those people are for sure can be a challenge.

Mapman - it doesn't help that the vast majority assume themselves to be immune to placebo and the power of expectations. It is alway blamed on inferior hearing and the number of audiophiles that believe they heard something and then later convinced themselves otherwise is approaching zero.