Just a quick note about digital connections and cables.
Dolby Digital data streams include basic crc error checking. So, if the packets get through from source to amp in tact, the signal will be 100%. If there is disruption in transit and a packet is corrupted, that packet will be lost and you will get no sound.
What does this mean in terms of interconnecting equipment? Well, is you make a digital electrical connection (coaxial phono type) using a coat-hanger, and you get sound, then great, you have your connection. You will not get any better sound by using some fancy 75ohm super monster ultra whizz cable. The same goes for optical bitstreams. You could try using a length of hose lined with tin foil and filled with jelly. If the signal got though (which is admittedly quite unlikely
), then bingo!
One thing that can happen with coaxial leads (or that old coat hanger), is rf interference can degrade the signal as it travels through the cable. When this happens, you may get corrupt packets, and some drop-outs in the sound. At this point, using a shielded cable, or moving to optical may be needed (especially for lengthy cable runs). But still bare in mind that the only cable you need is the most basic one that gives a constant signal. Unlike analogue interconnects, better cables doesn't equal better sound transmission.
This may, or may not, be of any use to anyone....
Matt.