Can digital cables be used as interconnects?


I was wondering if digital cables can be used as interconnects and if anyone does this? Is there a sonic compromise in doing so or are the "digital" cables simply
1/2 of a pair of interconnects? Thanks
lcherepkai
I'm currently experimenting with Virtual Dynamics Master Series Digital from my CDP > PRE, and agree with Douglas schroeder's statement;
"a tremendously rich presentation and I find that if there is any decrease in detail it is so slight as to be almost negligible. Meanwhile, the body and richness they afford is remarkable. They have an effect not unlike putting a tube preamp into a SS system"
Digital cables have poor metals since signal travels only on the surface at high frequencies. Usually it is plain low grade copper silver plated. Also the best dielectric you'll probably find is polyethylene. Everything is neglected since characteristic impedance is the most important factor (signal reflects on impedance boundaries). If digital cable is just a coax it has shield as a ground carrier (grounded on both ends) - bad with audio signals. Of course theory and practice are two different things.
I have experimented recently with using digital interconnects between pre and amp - the result was an awful glare and voice blur. Consistent with Kijanki's technical explanation on signal scattering on low-grade copper grain boundaries. It is possible that some higher-priced digital interconnects be made of high-grade materials (to justify premium charged) - which might make them by chance also ok for analog.