What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
A digital audio input receives audio as digital data, rather than as an analog electrical signal that must first be converted by an ADC. The label tells you the signal is digital; it does not tell you which protocol, connector, channel count, sample rate, or devices will work together. Those details determine whether an input can accept the source you want to connect.
What “digital audio input” means
A digital audio input is a receiving connection or channel that accepts audio already encoded as digital data. By contrast, a microphone, instrument, or analog line input receives an analog signal, which an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) turns into digital data for recording or processing. Focusrite’s glossary defines an ADC as the component that converts an analog input signal into a digital word: Focusrite audio glossary.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
“Digital” describes the signal format, not a particular socket. To identify what a port can accept, check its protocol, connector and supported mode in the device manual or control software.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhich digital audio connections might you see?
| Connection | Typical purpose | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| ADAT optical | Multichannel expansion, such as sending audio from an external preamp or converter to an interface. | Supported channel count at your intended sample rate, optical port mode and clock settings. |
| S/PDIF | A digital connection generally used for two-channel audio in the cited Focusrite Red documentation. | Whether the device supports coaxial RCA or optical TOSLINK S/PDIF on the port you plan to use. |
| AES/EBU | A professional digital audio connection family. | The exact connector, channel arrangement and compatibility for your model; these are device-specific. |
| USB | Often the link between an audio interface and a computer. | Do not assume the computer connection is also an input for external digital audio gear. |
| Network audio | Some professional equipment transports audio over a network. | Check the devices’ documentation for protocol support and interoperability. |
Focusrite describes ADAT as a multichannel format and S/PDIF as a consumer digital interface format in its glossary. These names identify protocols, not guarantees that two ports with a similar appearance are compatible.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
ADAT vs. S/PDIF: channel capacity and port mode
ADAT for adding channels
ADAT is commonly used to add inputs to an interface by connecting an external preamp or converter’s ADAT output to the interface’s ADAT input. Focusrite’s ADAT category describes transmission of up to eight channels over one optical cable: Focusrite ADAT interface overview. The actual channel count can fall as sample rate rises. In its Red range guide, Focusrite specifies eight channels at 44.1/48 kHz, four at 88.2/96 kHz, and two at 176.4/192 kHz for each connection covered by that guide: Red range operation guide. Treat those figures as model documentation, not a universal capacity for every ADAT device.
S/PDIF for a two-channel digital link
S/PDIF is generally a two-channel connection in the Focusrite Red range documentation. It may use coaxial RCA or optical TOSLINK, but the interface must support the chosen S/PDIF format on that specific port. Focusrite’s Red range controls and connections guide describes the documented S/PDIF connections and their available connector types.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Why an optical socket is not enough to identify compatibility
TOSLINK describes an optical connector, not a single audio protocol. An optical port may carry ADAT or optical S/PDIF, depending on the device and its settings; some interfaces accept ADAT only. Focusrite explains its model-specific port modes in Digital I/O Modes. Check the exact interface manual and control software before connecting equipment. Matching the optical cable alone does not establish that the ports speak the same format.
How to connect a TV or console to a digital input
A TV or console with an optical output can feed an interface only if the interface’s optical input supports S/PDIF. An optical input configured for ADAT only will not accept optical S/PDIF just because both use TOSLINK.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Check the interface manual or control software to confirm that its optical input supports S/PDIF, and select that mode if required.
- Connect the source’s optical output to the compatible input with a TOSLINK cable.
- Set the TV or console’s optical audio output to Linear PCM. Focusrite advises against DTS or Dolby Digital for the interface connection it documents, because its interfaces cannot decode those surround-encoded formats. A separate decoder would be needed for such a signal.
These settings and limitations are described in Focusrite’s guide to connecting TVs, consoles and other devices to an interface; menus and capabilities vary by source and interface model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to add preamp channels over ADAT
For a multichannel recording setup, connect the external preamp or converter’s ADAT output to the interface’s ADAT input. Then check the channel capacity for the selected sample rate in the manuals for both units, and configure the clock so the devices stay synchronized. A higher sample rate can reduce the channel capacity available over the ADAT connection; Focusrite’s Red range figures are listed in its operation guide.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Clocking depends on which unit leads. Focusrite explains that an interface can follow an external ADAT clock when the expansion unit is set as clock leader. Confirm that both units agree on sample rate, digital format and clock source; see Focusrite’s guidance on sync and clock source settings.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
A quick compatibility check before connecting
- Protocol: Identify whether the source sends ADAT, S/PDIF, AES/EBU or another format, and whether the receiving port accepts it.
- Connector and mode: Distinguish optical TOSLINK from coaxial RCA, then confirm the port is configured for the required protocol.
- Channel count: Check how many channels the connection supports at the sample rate you plan to use.
- Audio format: For a TV or console connection, check supported formats and whether the source can output Linear PCM.
- Clocking: When connecting digital recording gear, establish which unit is the clock leader and which follows.
- Computer connection: Treat USB or another host link separately from an interface’s external digital input. Focusrite, for example, identifies USB Type-C as the computer connection on its 18i8 hardware guide and documents the optical input separately: 18i8 hardware features.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
