How to Convert Digital Optical to AUX? (A Full Guide)

Looking to convert digital optical audio to AUX? Discover how you can convert optical audio output to AUX in this guide. Find out what a Digital-to-Audio Converter is and the factors to consider before buying one.

There's nothing quite like the experience of settling down for a movie night, ready to lose yourself in the story unfolding on the screen.

You've got the perfect large-screen digital TV and a cozy couch, but when it comes to the audio, you might find that the built-in speakers just don't cut it. Thankfully, a stereo speaker system can come to the rescue.

However, most modern TVs come with a single optical audio output. Unfortunately, your cherished stereo amplifiers may not have digital audio inputs. So, what can you do if you want to send the audio signal to your speakers? Read on to find out.

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How Can You Covert Digital Optical Audio Output to AUX?

If you want to convert digital optical audio output to AUX, here are some easy ways to help you do that:

Use a Digital-to-Analog Converter

A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is a device that converts digital signals from the optical cable into an analog signal compatible with AUX. Using a DAC is one of the most commonly used ways to convert digital optical audio output to AUX.

To convert digital audio to AUX, you'll need a Toslink digital out cable, a 3.5mm cable connected to your speaker, and, of course, a digital-to-analog converter. If you have all the equipment, follow our step-by-step process below:

Step 1 - Connect the Optical Audio Cable to the TV: Start by locating the digital audio out port on your TV. It is normally labeled "Optical Audio," "Digital Audio Out (Optical)," or "TOSLINK." Once you find it, plug one end of the digital optical cable into the TV.

Step 2 - Connect the Digital Audio Cable to the DAC: Once you've connected the Toslink cable to the TV, the next step should be to connect the other end of the cable to the corresponding input on the DAC labeled "Digital In" or "Toslink In."

Step 3 - Power the DAC: Most DACs require an external power supply. To power the DAC, you'll need a USB cable. If you have one, just use the USB connection on your TV to power your digital-to-analog converter.

Step 4 - Connect Your AUX Cable to the Speakers: Plug one end of the 3.55mm AUX cable into the 3.5mm output jack on your DAC. Connect the other end of the cable to the AUX input on your speaker.

Step 5 - Check the TV's Audio Menu: Turn on your TV and head over to the TV's audio setup menu. Once you're there, check whether the audio output is set to "Optical" or "Digital Audio Out."

Step 6 - Test the Connection: First, reduce the volume of your TV using the remote control. This helps avoid sound interference between your TV's built-in speakers and the stereo speaker system. Once you are done, play some audio or video content on your TV. If everything is connected correctly, you should hear the audio through your stereo system.

Use an External Sound Card

If you are looking to convert digital optical audio output to AUX for your PC setup, using an external sound card can be a highly effective solution.

First, you need to check if your sound card has a digital audio output. Luckily, most sound cards are equipped with a Toslink output. If it does, you can run the digital audio from your PC to your external sound system.

Factors to Consider When Buying a DAC

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when purchasing a DAC:

Ensure that the DAC matches the output connection of your TV. If your TV or source device has an optical audio output, look for a converter that has an optical audio output.
You also need to check whether your source device supports a PCM digital input or a Dolby Digital/DTS. Many DACs only support a PCM digital input, so if your TV transmits only DTS or Dolby Digital audio signals, the converter may not function.
Some DACs come with their very own cables, while others don't. Before buying your DAC, ensure that all the necessary cables are there.

Best Digital to Analog Converter: PROZOL DAC

PROZOL Digital to Analog Audio Converter is a high-quality converter that converts digital optical audio output to AUX.

Key Features

Comes with Output Volume Control.
Comes with Bass Control.
Optical and coaxial digital audio inputs available.

Optical Audio Output Vs. AUX

Optical output, often referred to as Toslink, is a type of digital audio connection. On the other hand, a 3.5mm AUX is an analog connection. These two types of audio connections are commonly used with audio devices, although they work quite differently.

Optical audio transmits audio signals in a digital format, while AUX connections transmit audio signals in an analog format.

AUX Connections

AUX connections are found on devices such as:

Speakers
Headphones
Amplifiers

They allow you to connect an external audio source to your device. AUX cables, especially when they are longer or of low quality, can pick up electrical interferences from other devices, potentially leading to external noises. However, this issue can easily be solved. To minimize electrical interference when using AUX cables, here are some tips:

Invest in high-quality cables that are better shielded against interference.
Keep AUX cables away from power cables and other electronic devices.
If you don't need a lengthy cable, opt for a shorter one.

Benefits of AUX

Here are some advantages of using AUX connections:

AUX cables are cheaper than optical cables.
They can connect with all devices with AUX out or AUX in.
They are more versatile as compared to optical.
High-quality AUX cables that are well-shielded and routed experience limited interference.
They are common on many modern devices.

Drawbacks of AUX Connections

Some key drawbacks of AUX include:

Analog audio signals transmitted through AUX cables can degrade over longer cable lengths.
Low-quality cables are susceptible to interference.
AUX connections can't transmit digital data.
Routing multiple AUX cables to numerous speakers is difficult.

Optical Connections

Optical audio output is a digital connection and can be found in many modern devices, including:

TVs
Gaming consoles
Blu-ray players

Optical cables use light signals, so they are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference. Unfortunately, optical audio is designed for digital audio sources. If you have analog speakers or headphones, you'll need to convert the signal using a digital-to-analog converter (DAC).

Benefits of Optical

Optical connections can transmit multi-channel audio formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS.
They can transmit high-resolution audio signals in up to 7.1 channels.
They are less prone to electromagnetic interference.
The resistance to interference ensures that the audio signals remain clean and free from noise.

Drawbacks of Optical

Longer cables can cause a loss of data.
Optical cables are a bit more expensive than AUX cables.
To use optical connections with analog audio equipment, you may need to invest in additional equipment, such as a DAC.

Should I Choose AUX or Optical?

The choice between AUX and optimal audio connections depends on your specific audio equipment and the intended use of the connection. If you prioritize high-fidelity audio quality and clarity, especially in home theater systems, optical connections are the best.

However, before you crucify AUX connections, keep in mind that your speakers are the ones that will determine the sound quality. Other things that impact audio quality includes:

Length of your cables.
The source device.

Summing Up

If you have a digital TV and want to convert digital optical audio to AUX, we hope that this guide has provided you with the necessary steps. Converting optical audio output to AUX is a simple and straightforward process that you can do on your own. You just need to have a DAC and the right cables.