Digital

USB, ethernet, optical, coaxial and AES/EBU cables for streaming and digital audio. The connections between computers, servers, streamers and DACs.

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Digital cable, and why it is not only data

A digital cable either delivers the data or it does not, but that is only half the story. Timing errors and electrical noise travel along the cable alongside the signal and arrive at the DAC, where both affect what comes out of the analogue stage. This is why digital cables can sound different from one another despite carrying identical data.

Choose by connection first. USB is the most common link from a computer or streamer to a DAC. Ethernet carries network audio and is the fastest growing area in digital hi-fi. Optical isolates two components electrically, which helps where noise is a problem, but has bandwidth limits at high sample rates. Coaxial S/PDIF generally handles higher rates and keeps a direct electrical connection. AES/EBU on XLR is the professional standard and appears on higher end transports and DACs.

Impedance is not optional on coaxial and AES/EBU, at 75 ohm and 110 ohm respectively, so a standard interconnect is not a substitute even though the plugs fit. Tell us the source, the DAC and the sample rates involved and we will tell you which connection to use.

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324 of 459 products

  • Shunyata

    Shunyata Research Sigma-X Clock-50 Digital Clock Cable - 1m

    SKU: SIGX-CLC/50-100

    £2,333.33
    Ex. VAT
    Shunyata Research Sigma-X digital cables deliver clarity, resolution, and tonal accuracy for serious listeners. By reducing jitter, temporal errors, and distortion, these cables achieve an ultra-low noise floor that uncovers hidden musical detail. The result is digital playback with lifelike depth and purity, rivaling analog sound quality. Ideal for high-end audio systems and studios seeking true sonic precision.
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  • Shunyata

    Shunyata Research Alpha-X Clock-75 Digital Clock Cable - 1m

    SKU: ALPX-CLC/75-100

    £1,500.00
    Ex. VAT
    Experience digital audio with remarkable depth and clarity using the Alpha-X digital cable. Designed with advanced patented technology, it reduces jitter and distortion, delivering a sound that is natural, dynamic, and true to the source. Perfect for those seeking uncompromising performance.
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  • Shunyata

    Shunyata Research Sigma-X Clock-75 Digital Clock Cable - 1m

    SKU: SIGX-CLC/75-100

    £2,333.33
    Ex. VAT
    Shunyata Research Sigma-X digital cables redefine digital playback with patented technologies that reduce jitter, phase distortion, and noise. Delivering extraordinary clarity, tonal balance, and lifelike detail, they bridge the gap between digital and analog sound. Perfect for those who demand true realism and precision in every note.
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  • Nordost

    Nordost QNET7 Network Switch

    SKU: Nordost QNet7 Network Switch

    £4,333.33
    Ex. VAT
    The Nordost QNET7 Ethernet Switch is engineered to elevate digital audio performance. With seven specialized ports, nine low-noise power supplies, and noise-reducing architecture, it ensures pristine signal transfer for routers, streamers, servers, and DACs. Pair it with Nordost’s QSOURCE Linear Power Supply and QRT accessories for even greater improvements in clarity, dynamics, and soundstage. The QNET7 is a vital upgrade for unlocking the full potential of streamed and stored music.
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  • Atlas Element Achromatic X RCA S/PDIF Digital Audio Cable - Special Offer - Black November Deal
    SALE

    Atlas Cables

    Atlas Element Achromatic X RCA S/PDIF Digital Audio Cable - Special Offer - Black November Deal

    SKU: Element Achromatic X Digital Audio

    From
    £45.79 £65.83
    Ex. VAT ✓ Save £20.04
    The Element Achromatic X RCA-RCA is a true 75 Ohm digital S/PDIF cable engineered for flawless transmission between hi-res streamer or CD transport and DAC. Unlike many cables that miss the 75 Ohm standard, it delivers reliable, error-free performance. Featuring our advanced solder-free Achromatic X RCA connectors, it provides a secure, high-quality connection that complements our award-winning Element Achromatic X RCA interconnects.
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  • Atlas Hyper Achromatic X RCA S/PDIF Digital Audio Cable - Special Offer - Black November Deal
    SALE

    Atlas Cables

    Atlas Hyper Achromatic X RCA S/PDIF Digital Audio Cable - Special Offer - Black November Deal

    SKU: Hyper Achromatic X Digital Audio

    From
    £80.79 £152.08
    Ex. VAT ✓ Save £71.29
    The Hyper Achromatic X RCA S/PDIF digital cable ensures true 75 Ohm impedance for flawless signal transmission between hi-res streamer, CD transport, and DAC. With cold-weld connectors and a dual-drain system adapted from our flagship interconnects, it provides consistent low impedance, low jitter, and complete 360-degree RFI protection. Designed for accuracy and reliability, this high-performance digital cable is the ideal upgrade for audio enthusiasts demanding clarity and precision.
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  • Atlas Element Achromatic X BNC Digital Audio Cable
    SALE

    Atlas Cables

    Atlas Element Achromatic X BNC Digital Audio Cable

    SKU: Element Achromatic X BNC

    From
    £105.95 £151.50
    Inc. VAT ✓ Save £45.55
    The Element Achromatic X RCA-BNC is a 75 Ohm digital interconnect designed for precise signal transfer between CD transport or streamer and DAC. Featuring cold-weld, solder-free connectors, silver-plated copper conductor, and near 100% RFI rejection, it ensures reduced jitter and interference-free playback. Ideal for systems with BNC socketry, it delivers stable, high-quality digital performance for clearer, more accurate sound.
    View Out of Stock Free delivery
  • Atlas Cables

    Atlas Hyper Achromatic X BNC Digital Audio Cable

    SKU: Hyper Achromatic X BNC

    From
    £210.42
    Ex. VAT
    The Hyper Achromatic X RCA-BNC interconnect ensures true 75 Ohm impedance for precise digital audio transfer between CD transport or streamer and DAC. Featuring silver-plated copper conductors, ultra-low-loss PEF dielectric, solder-free connectors, and 360° RFI shielding, it delivers cleaner, more accurate sound. Ideal for systems with BNC socketry, this high-performance cable reduces jitter and interference, making it a reliable upgrade for achieving the best from your hi-res audio system.
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  • aDOT

    ADOT ONI-100 Optical Network Isolator

    SKU: ADOT ONI-100

    £415.83
    Ex. VAT
    The ADOT ONI-100 isolates your audio system from noisy home networks using internal fibre optic technology. It blocks interference picked up by Ethernet cables, reducing timing errors and improving sound quality. Compatible with standard RJ45 connections, it’s easy to install and delivers cleaner, more accurate audio performance for any hi-fi system.
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  • Tellurium Q Ultra Silver II Digital Waveform HF Cable
    SALE

    Tellurium Q

    Tellurium Q Ultra Silver II Digital Waveform HF RCA to BNC 1m - Ex Demo

    SKU: USII DW RCA-BNC 1m ExDemo

    £520.82 £650.83
    Ex. VAT ✓ Save £130.01

    The Tellurium Q Ultra Silver II Digital Waveform HF Cable offers unparalleled clarity and fidelity in audio playback, featuring enhanced shielding and protection for the digital signal compared to its predecessor. As part of the Silver Family, it delivers uncoloured, dynamic sound with exceptional resolution and transparency, ensuring finely detailed bass notes and exceptional top-end extension for a coherent and immersive listening experience.

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  • Tellurium Q Silver Diamond Waveform hf Digital Coaxial Cable
    SALE
    £883.32 £1,103.75
    Ex. VAT ✓ Save £220.43
    Just when Tellurium thought the limits were reached - the Silver Diamond went further!
    View Out of Stock
  • AudioQuest Diamond USB Type A to Type B Data Cable
    SALE

    AudioQuest

    AudioQuest Diamond USB Type A to Type B Data Cable 3m - Ex-Demo

    SKU: AQ Diamond USB A-B 3m Ex-Demo

    £640.83 £940.83
    Ex. VAT ✓ Save £300.00
    For many applications, the speed of digital communication is important. Most visibly, "speed" is about transferring large files as quickly as possible, or carrying enough data for an HD video.
    View Available Worldwide Shipping Available

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For noise isolation, yes. While Ethernet transmits data efficiently, it can carry noise. Fibre breaks the electrical path, reducing interference.

Coaxial S/PDIF uses RCA or BNC connectors with 75-ohm impedance, while AES/EBU is balanced and uses XLR connectors with 110-ohm impedance. AES/EBU typically offers better noise rejection for professional and high-end systems.

Optical TOSLINK cables are ideal for preventing ground loops and electrical interference since they use light transmission. Coaxial cables, however, often deliver a slightly more robust and detailed sound.

Yes, but not in the same way as analogue cables. High-quality digital cables minimise jitter and ensure stable signal transfer, preserving timing accuracy and reducing noise.

Yes. Both coaxial and AES/EBU cables can handle 24-bit/192kHz audio, while optical cables may be limited to 24-bit/96kHz depending on the device.

Using a true 75-ohm coaxial digital cable maintains impedance consistency and reduces signal reflections that can introduce jitter and distortion.

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