Digital audio input provides higher fidelity than analog connections by transmitting uncompressed or losslessly compressed audio. Follow these setup steps for optimal results.
Required Equipment
- Source device with digital output (Optical/TOSLINK, Coaxial SPDIF, or HDMI ARC/eARC)
- Receiving device with compatible digital input (AV receiver, soundbar, DAC)
- Appropriate cable: Optical cable, RCA coaxial cable, or High-Speed HDMI cable
Connection Process
Identify ports: Locate matching outputs (source) and inputs (receiver). Optical ports have protective flaps, coaxial use RCA connectors, HDMI ARC/eARC ports are typically labeled.
Physical connection:
- For TOSLINK: Align cable square connector with port, insert firmly until click
- For SPDIF coaxial: Connect RCA cable to orange-colored ports
- For HDMI ARC/eARC: Use designated HDMI ARC port on both devices
Device Configuration
Source Device Settings:
- Access audio output settings menu
- Select digital output (Optical/SPDIF/HDMI ARC)
- Set output format to PCM for stereo or Bitstream for surround formats
- Disable any Dolby processing if receiver handles decoding
Receiving Device Settings:
- Select correct input source (e.g., "OPT", "COAX", "HDMI ARC")
- For HDMI-CEC: Enable ARC and CEC control functions
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- No sound: Verify input selection on receiver, check cable seating (optical cables snap into place), confirm source output enabled
- Intermittent audio: Inspect cables for damage (especially optical), test different cable
- HDMI ARC failure: Power cycle all devices, confirm CEC/ARC enabled on all connected units
- Limited format support: Ensure source/receiver both support selected audio format (e.g., Dolby TrueHD requires eARC)
Optimization Tips
- Use shortest possible cables to prevent signal degradation (max 10m for optical)
- Set sample rate to 48kHz/24-bit unless handling high-res audio
- Disable unnecessary audio processing at source when using external DAC/receiver
- For surround sound: Always prioritize HDMI ARC/eARC over optical due to bandwidth limitations
