[ctviggen]

I've ordered an Ack DAC for comparison with my current set up.  If I like what I hear, I'll be using my Pioneer DVD/CDP as transport to the Ack DAC through a nice digital interconnect.  As the Pioneer has only one digital RCA output, I'll have to use the optical output to connect the Pioneer to my HT processor.  I have an optical cable that doesn't look to be too well built.  But, do optical cables really have differences in quality, or will I be paying more for the same bits but nicer looks?

[TheChairGuy]

ctviggen,

Your question has been combed over many-a-time over at Audio Asylum...go to the Cable Asylum and type in 'optical toslink'...you'll get a variety of responses.

Tho Toshiba states that plastic fibre is 'good enough' (and certainly cheaper and more durable), but it seems the cumulative opinion of audiophools on opticals is, go glass.  And, if you go glass, go 280 strands (some makers, Audioquest mentioned specifically use 65-70 strand glass).

I found an inexspensive option in a SonicWave all glass, 280 strand toslink (at about $35 or so...tho Buy.com has them coming in in a few weks for a lot less), but I bought mine from a guy on Audiogon selling them for $29.99 + $6.95 shipping.

I only bought it last week, so I'm in the same experiemental stage as you.

[ctviggen]

Thanks!  I forgot about Audio Asylum.  I'll check it out.

[TheChairGuy]

You bet, Bob.

Saab fan, you are, with your moniker?  I have a much loved '99 9-3 with most of the Viggen Rescue Pack handling components now on it - quite an improvement.

Ciao, TCG

[audioengr]

Here is a Toslink cable that I use - very good one:
http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/category.cgi?category=220&item=SP-TOC-99HQ&type=store

[TheChairGuy]

Steve,

Have you tried others...or is it 'very good' based on comparo's to your own Bitmeister coax digital?

I bought the 280 strand glass toslink offered on Audiogon as a few folks seemed to find the 280 strand better than the 65 strand models from Sound Professionals and Audioquest.

Funny thing is, I looked at the packaging for both the Sound Professionals and the one offered on Audiogon...damn near identical, tho with different verbiage.

On Audiogon: http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?cablintr&1096352164

I wonder if the same OEM makes 65 and 280 strand models for sale.  

As mentioned, SonicWave 280 strander is even less at Buy.com...but they don't have it in stock right now.  A few folks on Audio Asylum glowed over that one.

[ctviggen]

TCG,

I am a Saab fan, although I've yet to add any improvements (all my money has been going to my sound systems -- but now I've given up on this temporarily, so maybe an upgrade to the car is in order!).  

I'll check out these items/links, thanks!