For analog audio (needed for DVD-A and SACD), I'd use either the Outlaw PCA or the Blue Jeans analog audio cables, in whatever length you need to get from the 981HD to the 990 (I had PCA's for this until recently, when changes to the cabinet made my 0.5-meter PCA's too short and I used some Blue Jeans cables that I had handy). They're both good quality cables at reasonable prices. For CD's and DVD's, you'll be best off staying with the digital connection (coaxial or optical, your choice). I've also got an Outlaw PDH between my 981HD and my 990 for video, with a Pacific Cable DVI cable from the 990 to the TV.