Optical audio (TOSLINK) remains a reliable, interference-free digital connection for Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound. Here are key device categories supporting it:
Blu-ray & DVD Players
- High-Quality Disc Players: Most Blu-ray players include an optical output alongside HDMI, essential for older AVRs or multi-device setups.
- Upscaling DVD Players: Quality DVD players feature optical outputs for transmitting Dolby Digital/DTS from DVDs.
AV Receivers (The Core Hub)
- Essential Audio Processor: Modern and legacy AV receivers universally feature multiple optical inputs for connecting source devices.
- Decoder Requirement: Ensure the receiver decodes Dolby Digital and DTS formats transmitted via optical to deliver surround sound.
Televisions
- Primary Audio Output: Virtually all modern TVs have an optical audio output for connecting to soundbars, AVRs, or DACs.
- Passthrough Crucial: Verify the TV can pass Dolby Digital (via broadcast, streaming, or connected devices) through its optical output; PCM is often limited to stereo.
Streaming Media Players
- Dedicated Audio Port: Select models, particularly higher-tier boxes like specific NVIDIA Shield TV Pro configurations or older Apple TV boxes, offer optical outputs.
- Set-top Boxes (Cable/Satellite): Many cable and satellite DVR boxes include optical outputs to deliver Dolby Digital surround from broadcasts.
Game Consoles
- PlayStation Series: PS5 (via compatible HDMI adapter), PS4, and PS4 Pro feature optical outputs (native on PS4/Pro).
- Xbox Series: Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X include optical outputs. Newer Xbox Series S/X lack native optical but may require HDMI audio extraction devices.
Hi-Fi Components
- CD Players & Transports: Many standalone CD players and dedicated transports offer optical outputs for high-quality digital audio transmission.
- Network Streamers/DACs: Premium music streamers and Digital-to-Analog Converters often include optical inputs/outputs for system integration.
Soundbars & Home Theater Systems
- Input Flexibility: Many soundbars and HTiB systems incorporate optical inputs, allowing a direct connection from TVs or other sources.
- Satellite System Receivers: Base units for satellite speaker systems frequently feature optical inputs.
Key Considerations
- Format Support: Optical reliably transmits core Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1. It cannot handle lossless formats (TrueHD, DTS-HD MA) or object-based audio (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X).
- Reliability: Prone to damage if the cable port is stressed; ensure a clean connection.
- Modern Integration: While HDMI offers more features, optical excels at zero-interference digital audio transmission to compatible equipment.
