Coaxial or Optical

There has been some controversy about optical vs. coax. I'll tell you up front that I am no expert. The Company Cable recommends using optical *instead* of coax for the MSB Link DAC D/A. So does Stan Warren (I believe he is the "S" in PS Audio); I spoke with him several weeks ago and he seems very knowledgeable. That at least indicates that the last word hasn't yet been said about which is superior. It is even possible that optical is best for some components while coax is better for others. I'll second Avguygeorge in recommending that you try both. What I can say is that I am currently auditioning the AIWA changer/MSB Link DAC combo using optical to connect them and it sounds quite good. Unfortunately the AIWA does not also have a coax out so I can't compare.

To answer your question about spending more for interconnects, that depends. I wish there were an easy answer but $$$ does not necessary equate to quality. To give an example. Not too long ago I auditioned 9 or 10 power cords ranging in price from $70 - $600. The $290 Custom Power Cord Model 11 bested them all when used on my power amp. On digital sources the $600 Marigo Ultra Series II was the king of those auditioned. But the $70 Stealth HAC came in third, well ahead of the $500 JPS Labs. To make things even more confusing, someone else will likely get different results on their equipment. So, the answer to your question will have to come from you. Many manufacturers have 30-day money back garrauntees. You can also borrow cables from the The Cable Company's Library. Decide what your budget is, make a list of several cables you are interested in, and start auditioning. My recommendation is that you not try to audition more than three cables in any given three or four week period.