You are correct, the count of LEDs does not matter. Even with one led, the 3.3V signal may not work. But if the first led can receive the data, it will transmit the data to the next led at the correct level. Your 74hct125 idea should work.
You are correct, the count of LEDs does not matter. Even with one led, the 3.3V signal may not work. But if the first led can receive the data, it will transmit the data to the next led at the correct level. Your 74hct125 idea should work.