A digital audio connector is a physical connection that carries audio as digital data between devices. The term can describe an audio-specific interface such as S/PDIF, or a broader interface such as HDMI or USB that also carries audio. The connector’s shape, the interface or signal format, and the audio formats the devices support are separate compatibility questions.
What does “digital audio connector” mean?
It is a general term, not the name of one universal plug. It may refer to the physical port and cable, or more loosely to the digital interface carrying sound. To choose a connection, identify both ends and check what audio formats the equipment accepts.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which types of digital audio connections are common?
| Connection | What it is | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Optical S/PDIF (TOSLINK) | An optical connection used with S/PDIF. | Both devices need compatible optical ports, and their supported audio formats must match. Android Open Source Project terminology defines TOSLINK as the optical connection used with S/PDIF. |
| Coaxial S/PDIF | An electrical connection carrying S/PDIF. | Confirm that both devices have digital coaxial ports. The RCA-like appearance can be confused with analog audio connections. |
| HDMI | A digital interface for video, audio, and data, rather than an audio-only connector. | Check the HDMI audio features on both devices and whether audio return or eARC matters for the setup. HDMI Licensing Administrator describes HDMI as a digital video, audio, and data interface: HDMI Specification. |
| USB audio | Audio carried through a USB connection when the equipment supports the relevant USB Audio functions. | A USB socket alone does not prove that it works as an audio input or output. Check the port’s role and the device’s supported formats. USB-IF lists its audio device-class documents in its document library. |
Is optical the same as S/PDIF?
No. S/PDIF is an interface format; optical TOSLINK is one physical connection used to carry it. S/PDIF can also use an electrical coaxial connection. Android Open Source Project terminology describes S/PDIF as the Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format interconnect for uncompressed PCM and IEC 61937 audio. The interface name and the port type are therefore not interchangeable.
Recommended Free Tools
What cable do you need?
Match the cable to the actual ports at both ends, then confirm that the devices support the signal and format you want to send. For example, a TOSLINK optical audio cable is appropriate only when both devices have compatible optical ports. A coaxial S/PDIF cable or HDMI cable likewise requires compatible connections on both devices.
#1 Best Overall
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
A cable that fits physically does not necessarily convert one signal type into another. USB-to-optical or HDMI-to-optical setups may require an active converter that supports the signal direction and audio format; they are not necessarily handled by a simple passive cable.
What does a TV’s digital audio out do?
A TV’s digital audio output sends sound to compatible equipment, such as an audio receiver or sound system. Depending on the TV, this may be an optical S/PDIF output or audio sent over HDMI in a setup that supports it. The TV’s output settings and supported formats determine what reaches the connected equipment; consult the TV and receiver manuals for the exact options.
Rank #2
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
Why might there be no sound from a TV’s optical output?
Check the connection and configuration before assuming the port or cable is faulty:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →- Confirm that the TV’s output and the sound system’s input are both optical/TOSLINK ports, and that the cable is seated correctly.
- Check the TV’s audio settings to ensure sound is routed to the digital output.
- Compare the audio formats supported by the source, TV output, and receiving equipment; consult each device’s manual for passthrough limits.
- If the sound comes from an HDMI-connected source, check for model-specific restrictions. Philips says some listed TV models may provide no S/PDIF digital sound when the HDMI source is protected by HDCP; in some cases, those models may automatically reduce the output to a lower specified format. This guidance applies to the Philips models on its support page, not necessarily to every television.
How widespread is HDMI?
HDMI Licensing Administrator’s specification page states that almost 14 billion HDMI-enabled devices had shipped cumulatively since the first HDMI specification was released in December 2002. That is a cumulative figure, not an annual shipment count.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
Rank #4
- 【Extra-Long 10ft Cable for Flexible Setup】iVANKY 10ft optical audio cable provides just the right length to connect your devices comfortably - no more struggling with cables that are too short. Enjoy the same pristine, lossless audio quality while having the freedom to arrange your home theater, gaming system, or audio components exactly how you want
- 【Ultra-Clear Audio Quality with Japan Toray Original Fiber Core】iVANKY optical audio cable uses Japan Toray Original Fiber Core to deliver zero-distortion, lossless audio. This toslink cable is compatible with uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems, including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution, and LPCM. This digital optical audio cable ensures a wide dynamic range for an immersive listening experience
- 【Universal Device Compatibility】This optical cable for soundbar and home theaters connects seamlessly to a wide range of devices with standard Toslink (s/PDIF, Optical) ports, such as TVs, Soundbar, Speaker, Receiver, PS4, Xbox, Blu-Ray players, and more. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enhance their audio setup with a fiber optic cable that works flawlessly across multiple devices
- 【24K Gold-plated Connectors & Superior Durability】 Unlike conventional PVC jackets, iVANKY optical cable features a high-quality nylon braided jacket that withstands over 16,000 bends, making it highly durable and resistant to breakage. The aluminum shell and 24K gold-plated connectors prevent tarnishing and maintain conductivity over time, ensuring long-lasting performance
- 【Precision Design】The precisely designed cuboid connectors of this digital optical audio cable make installation easy and secure. The flexible and lightweight nylon material ensures hassle-free handling. Additionally, removable rubber caps protect the connectors from dust and oxidation when not in use. CL3-rated, this cable is also designed for in-wall installation, providing flexibility for your setup
Rank #3
- Please REMOVE the end protective caps before using the cable.
- IN THE BOX: 6-foot digital optical audio Toslink cable.
- CLEAR AUDIO: Multi-channel, fiber-optic digital audio output; corrosion resistant gold-plated connectors and buffer tubing for optimal signal transfer.
- DURABLE: Lightweight, flexible cable with a rugged PVC exterior and removable rubber tips that protect the cable when not plugged in; remove before using.
- CONNECTS DEVICES: Quickly connects a sound bar, CD player, Blu-Ray player, game console, or other device to an audio system or TV.
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.
