Digital Cable Questions
What’s the difference between coaxial (S/PDIF) and AES/EBU digital audio cables?
Coaxial S/PDIF uses RCA or BNC connectors with 75-ohm impedance, while AES/EBU is balanced and uses XLR connectors with 110-ohm impedance. AES/EBU typically offers better noise rejection for professional and high-end systems.
When should I use an optical (TOSLINK) cable instead of coaxial?
Optical TOSLINK cables are ideal for preventing ground loops and electrical interference since they use light transmission. Coaxial cables, however, often deliver a slightly more robust and detailed sound.
Does cable quality affect digital audio performance?
Yes, but not in the same way as analogue cables. High-quality digital cables minimise jitter and ensure stable signal transfer, preserving timing accuracy and reducing noise.
Can digital audio cables transmit high-resolution formats?
Yes. Both coaxial and AES/EBU cables can handle 24-bit/192kHz audio, while optical cables may be limited to 24-bit/96kHz depending on the device.
What’s the benefit of using a true 75-ohm digital cable?
Using a true 75-ohm coaxial digital cable maintains impedance consistency and reduces signal reflections that can introduce jitter and distortion.
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