I was wondering this for quite a while. Usb cables are purely digital signal so in theory no one should care about its quality if it does the job well and transfer the signal to the end (ones and zeroes). But then again... Why do some cables have double shielding for interference? And when we are talking about recording and audio interfaces I started thinking that perhaps interference could bring noise to the recorded signal or some 'impurities'? I know that gold coating is just a cheap marketing trick and practically is not important at all. Cable resistance - this I do not know (on digital cables).
So how (if it does) a good quality, double shielded, cable "improves" the sound?
Is there ANY advantage of using it over a cheap, single shielded (or not even shielded at all..) cable when we are talking about high quality DAC, Audio interfaces and other devices which transfer signal that is video, audio or anything familiar. Should I run and purchase a good quality usb when I'm recording? Or good quality cables are only good for reliability?
Haven't solved the mystery myself. I know that you guys are always helpful and will solve it :)
P.S. I am asking specifically for audio interfaces or DAC. I know that if you'd pay 50$ for an iPhone cable it would be simply dumb as it does not matter expensive or rather cheap. Audio interfaces and specifically audio recording is what I am not sure about.. (and didn't quite found the information I was looking for on the internet or forums)