If it makes any difference at all, which I doubt, I would think Jea's guess is correct. However, I agree with Bob R.
Re Overhang's comment, balanced interconnects may have the shield grounded at only one end, in order to eliminate possible ground loops. That would account for directionality in the case of those cables, and the proper direction would be to have the grounded end at the source. Not sure why or if a single-ended interconnect may truly be directional (manufacturer claims notwithstanding), but in any event (considering that the shield of a single-ended interconnect serves as the signal return path, plus as an rfi/emi shield, plus as a path that may conduct current flow caused by voltage offsets between the chassis of the two components) it's a very different situation than a power line fuse.
Regards,
-- Al
Re Overhang's comment, balanced interconnects may have the shield grounded at only one end, in order to eliminate possible ground loops. That would account for directionality in the case of those cables, and the proper direction would be to have the grounded end at the source. Not sure why or if a single-ended interconnect may truly be directional (manufacturer claims notwithstanding), but in any event (considering that the shield of a single-ended interconnect serves as the signal return path, plus as an rfi/emi shield, plus as a path that may conduct current flow caused by voltage offsets between the chassis of the two components) it's a very different situation than a power line fuse.
Regards,
-- Al