[imeem]

In general, do they add more noise or degrade the sound quality? Cuz i have a very very cheap one (like 2$ from dollar store) and they have bad sound quality/ they add noise.
 
If i buy a more expensive one like this or this,  I assume it will be better quality and there shouldn't be any unwanted noise? 
 
BTW, does it really matter if it's gold plated or normal? 

 

[goodolcheez]

More connections in the chain the more data loss will result.
 
Same goes for the Y splitter.
 
The $11 one you linked may help a little, but there will still be data loss over direct connection.   I also had tried the 3.5mm mini-to-Toslink adapter and it added great amount of noise / distortion in the audio. You can even hear the noise when no music is played. And this is through fiber optic!
 

 

[imeem]

alright thx