You can connect a smart TV to an amplifier without HDMI by matching the TV’s audio output to an audio input on the amplifier. Optical-to-optical is the simplest digital route when both devices support it; analog outputs can connect to compatible analog inputs, while an optical TV output and RCA-only amplifier need a digital-to-analog converter.
Check the TV’s outputs and amplifier’s inputs
Look at the port labels on both devices and consult their manuals. Confirm that the TV port sends audio and the amplifier port accepts audio; ports with similar connectors can have opposite directions. Available options vary by model. Common labels include OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUT, OPTICAL IN, AUDIO OUT, RCA L/R, and stereo-mini or headphone output. Sony’s model-dependent connection guidance describes several of these possibilities, but the ports on your equipment determine which route will work.
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Also check whether the amplifier accepts the TV’s audio format and channels. A physical connection alone does not guarantee sound if the amplifier cannot decode the format being sent.
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Choose a connection that matches both devices
| TV audio output | Amplifier audio input | What to connect |
|---|---|---|
| Optical digital audio out | Optical or compatible digital audio in | TOSLINK optical cable |
| Optical digital audio out | Analog RCA audio in | TOSLINK cable and a powered optical-to-RCA digital-to-analog converter |
| RCA audio out | RCA analog audio in | Stereo RCA cable |
| Stereo-mini or headphone audio out | Compatible analog audio in | Appropriate stereo cable, if the TV manual confirms the port is an audio output |
| Bluetooth audio transmission | Bluetooth audio reception | Pair the devices, if both support a compatible TV-to-amplifier audio route |
Connect the TV and amplifier
Optical output to optical input
- Connect one end of a TOSLINK cable to the TV’s optical digital audio output and the other to the amplifier’s matching digital input. LG’s support guidance likewise directs users to connect the TV’s optical digital output to the digital amplifier input with an optical cable.
- On the amplifier, select the input corresponding to that optical port.
- On the TV, select the external or digital audio output as required by its menu. Use an audio format the amplifier supports.
Optical output to RCA input
- Connect the TV’s optical output to the optical input on a powered digital-to-analog converter using a TOSLINK cable.
- Connect the converter’s stereo RCA outputs to an analog line input on the amplifier using a stereo RCA cable.
- Power the converter, select the amplifier’s corresponding analog input, and choose a compatible digital output format on the TV.
A basic RCA cable cannot convert optical digital audio to analog. Check the converter’s specifications for support of the TV’s output format and the channel output you need; this connection path is based on the different digital and analog signal types, not on testing of a particular converter.
#1 Best Overall
- PROZOR 192KHz Digital to Analog Audio Converter: Converts coaxial or Toslink/SPDIF digital PCM audio signals to analog L/R RCA and 3.5mm jack audio simultaneously ——⚠️Set TV audio output format to PCM | 📌Adjust TV volume via settings or output devices | 📌Optical output not supported
- Supports Uncompressed 2 channel LPCM or PCM Digital Audio Signal Output: Provides Electromagnetic-noise-free Transmission. ⚠️Ensure the audio output is set to PCM or LPCM to avoid potential audio distortion. For 5.1 decoding/output, check out our upgraded 5.1 model.
- Supports High-Resolution Audio: 192kHz Sampling Rate achieved, Supports Sampling Rate at 32, 44.1, 48, 96 and 192kHz, and 24-bit SPDIF Incoming Bit Stream on Left and Right Channels, ensuring that your audio experience is rich in detail and accuracy
- Built-in Audio Amplifier Chip: Equipped with a professional audio amplifier chip, addresses the common issue of low output volume, resulting in pure and crisp sound quality
- Easy to Install and Use: Multiple inputs and outputs for simple setup. Easily converts digital audio from devices like HD TVs, TV boxes, DVD/Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles (PS3/PS4/PS5) to analog audio, connecting to home audio systems, AV Amps, and headphones
Analog output to analog input
If the TV has RCA audio out and the amplifier has RCA audio in, connect left to left and right to right with a stereo RCA cable. If the TV instead has a stereo-mini or headphone output, use a compatible stereo cable only when the manual identifies that port as an audio output. Select the matching amplifier input and the TV’s external audio output if required.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth works only if the TV can transmit audio and the amplifier can receive it, either directly or through a compatible receiver. Check both manuals for the supported connection roles and pairing steps before buying a transmitter or receiver; the mere presence of Bluetooth on a device does not establish that it supports this audio route.
Rank #2
- 【Upgraded DAC Converter】Converts Coaxial or Toslink digital PCM/ LPCM audio signals to analog L/ R RCA and 3.5mm Jack audio (✅Not capable of being reversed). Can be Used for PS3, PS4, Xbox, Blu-ray Player, HD DVD, Home Cinema Systems, AV Amps, Etc
- 【Sampling Rate Achieved: 192KHz】Hdiwousp digital-to-analog signal converters actually Support sampling rate at 32, 44.1, 48, 96, and 192 kHz; 24-bit S/PDIF incoming bit stream on left and right channels, provides crystal clear electromagnetic noise-free transmission
- 【Plug and Play】Simple installation and easy operation, needn't install extra driver. In addition, the DAC adapter comes with an optical cable and a power adapter for transmitting digital and providing power respectively, everything is arranged for you! (✅ Please set PCM/LPCM audio format when using)
- 【Audio In and Out】Input Audio Connector: 1xToslink, 1xCoaxial (coaxial cable is not included); Output Audio Connector: 2 x RCA (R/L, RCA cable isn't included), 1x3.5mm Jack; Powered by 5V/1A Power Adapter. (✅ NOTE: can not support AC3, Dolby, DTS, and any other SPDIF audio that is not in PCM format.)
- 【NOTE】Please set the correct audio format PCM / LPCM before use, otherwise it will not work. If you don't know how to set it, please refer to the picture on the page or contact our customer service team, we will help you to solve the problem!
Set the TV’s audio output and format
Turn on the amplifier and select the input you connected. In the TV’s sound settings, choose the external audio output or digital output if needed. Depending on the model, the relevant menu may be called Speaker Output, Audio Output, S/PDIF, or Digital Audio Out. Follow the TV and amplifier manuals for the exact menu path and format choices.
For an optical connection, select a format the amplifier can decode. If there is no sound, try the TV’s automatic setting or a compatible PCM option if available. The exact choices and behavior are model-specific. If TV speakers and the amplifier play together and create an echo, switch the TV to external audio or turn off its speakers using the available setting.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Rybozen 192KHz Audio Converter】For the convenience of use, we are equipped with an optical fiber cable and a power adapter. This audio converter with 3.5mm jack audio can convert coaxial or optical digital PCM audio signals to analog RCA L/R and 3.5mm jack audio simultaneously.
- 【How to Use】In order to enjoy pleasant music, please set your DVD or music player audio output to PCM or LPCM. This audio converter supports uncompressed 2-channel LPCM or PCM digital audio signal output. Not available for 5.1 channel.
- 【Multiple Sampling Rates to Meet Your Needs】This digital to analog audio converter supports sampling rates of 32, 44.1, 48, 96 and 192KHz. And it is the 24*bit S/PDIF input bit stream of the left and right channels. Provides perfect noise-free, no electromagnetic transmission.
- 【Wide Application Scenarios】Easy installation, simple operation, plug and play. Familiar Signal Input: Toslink, RCA (coaxial); Output: RCA(R/L), 3.5mm jack; Suitable for party and home, such as PS3, PS4, Blu-ray player, HD DVD, home theater system, AV amplifier.
- 【Thoughtful Service】Rybozen provides 24-hour online technical support and 30-day refund. We are at your service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Rank #4
- 【ARC Function - Check Your TV First】: This hdmi arc audio extractor lets your TV send audio Extractor the Audio from TV to Soundbar or Amplifier, allowing you to enjoy an immersive home theater experience instead of the poor sound of TV.(Note:Your TV must have an HDMI port labeled "ARC" or "eARC" – otherwise it won't work. Please check your TV's HDMI ports before purchasing.)
- 【Digital to Analog Audio Converter】: Equipped with coaxial and optical (Toslink/SPDIF) digital audio inputs, this converter transforms PCM/LPCM digital signals into analog stereo output, allowing connection to amplifiers, headphones, or speakers. The input selection switch on the panel enables quick and easy switching between optical and coaxial modes. (Note: Supports PCM input only, not compatible with decoding function.)
- 【Simultaneous Audio Output】: The ARC audio extractor allows optical, coaxial, L/R, and 3.5 mm headphone outputs to work at the same time, providing flexible connection options for different audio devices. Please ensure the audio format is set to PCM or LPCM before use. (Note: Not compatible with Dolby, DTS, or other surround sound formats.)
- 【Wide Compatibility】:Enjoy seamless integration with a wide range of home entertainment devices. ✓ ARC Mode – Connect ARC/eARC-enabled TVs; ✓ DAC Input – Connect Blu-ray players, DVD players, set-top boxes, gaming consoles (PS3/PS4), Bluetooth receivers, and other digital audio sources; ✓ Audio Output– Connect speakers, amplifiers, soundbars, headphones, and audio systems via Optical, Coaxial, or 3.5 mm audio outputs. This flexible design ensures reliable compatibility with virtually any home audio setup.
- 【Full Accessories Included & Ready to Use】: Package Contents:HDMI ARC audio extractor ×1, USB power cord ×1(Power adapter included), HDMI Cable x 1, Optical cable ×1, L/R to 3.5mm Cable x1, Manual ×1. Simply connect and enjoy. Perfect for enhancing your home entertainment system!
Rank #3
- Digital to Analog: DAC audio converter is designed for converting coaxial or toslink digital PCM audio signals to analog L/R RCA and 3.5mm Jack audio simultaneously. ( Not support Analog to Digital)
- Excellent Performance: The sound of the digital to analog audio adapter is synchronized when connected, without delay. The durable and stable transmission makes you do not have to worry about poor sound quality after long-term use.
- Wide Compatibility: The signal converter supports sampling rate at 32KHz, 44.1KHz, 48KHz, 96KHz, 192KHz and 24-bit SPDIF Incoming Bit Stream on left and right Channels. It can be used for PS3, PS4, Xbox, Blu-ray Player, HD DVD, Home Cinema Systems, AV Amps, etc.
- Multi-Point Connection: Optical to rca adapter supports uncompressed 2.1-channel PCM or LPCM digital audio signal output, will not supports 5.1 channel Dolby sound.
- Thoughtful Service: The package includes DAC Converter*1, Toslink Cable (Optical cable)*1, USB Power Cable*1, User Manual*1. We provides 24-hour online technical support and 30-day refund. We are at your service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Troubleshoot silence, echo, or unexpected sound
- No sound over optical: Check that the cable is seated at both ends, the amplifier is set to the connected input, and the TV is sending audio to optical or external output. Verify format compatibility; try automatic or a compatible PCM setting if the TV offers one.
- No sound through an optical-to-RCA converter: Confirm that the converter is powered, the TV connects to its optical input, and its RCA outputs connect to an amplifier input. Check that it supports the TV’s digital format. A passive cable cannot do the required digital-to-analog conversion.
- Echo from both the TV and amplifier: Set the TV to external audio or disable its speakers if the TV’s settings allow it.
- Missing, distorted, or unexpected surround sound: Check the channel format supported by the TV’s output, amplifier, and any converter in the path. Do not assume every device can pass or decode every digital format.
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