Digital cable optimal length?

I agree with MrDerrick. See the post by Tobias, and the subsequent comments by me and others, in this thread:

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?fcabl&1233206618

The technical factors for digital audio transmission are completely different than for a phono cable, due mainly to the much higher frequency spectral components that are present in digital audio signals, as well as cartridge sensitivity to cable capacitance (for moving magnet cartridges), very different signal amplitudes, etc.

Regards,
-- Al

1.42 meters..Tom

what sonic differences can one expect to hear when using a cable too short or too long?

Too short means confusion and lack of coherence. Musical phrasing is smeared, timing seems subtly off, the image is out of focus. Instruments are harder to place and lack definition. Soundstage is vague. It's easy to spot the difference if you compare two lengths of the same cable.

I've never heard too long but I imagine the effect must be about the same, since the problem--timing of internal reflections--is the same.

Thanks Tobias, Almarg. I did search under 'length' and found more results. I quite don't understand the technical rationale other than maintaining certain impedance, I do believe that it would be unwise for me to buy longer cable to just try out, chances are it would be a waste of money.

I am not sure buying a 'cheap' 1.5 m and 3m digital cable form Radioshack would give me some conclusive result or not. But if does not cost too much, I might try this.

Theaudiotweak's answer 1.42 m is rather curious. Could you care to explain, Tom?