HDMI ARC vs. Digital Optical (TosLink) | How to get the best sound

[@grandpaissues4156]

I started chasing surround sound formats decades ago. It became a never ending chase with the next "best" technology always thousands of dollars away. Years ago, I went back to a high end two channel system and never looked back. Granted, I do have the thousands invested, but the technology will never change, vinyl is back, DAC's are fun and movie audio on my two channel system blows most surround systems out of the water.

[@nikhil0811]

Totally agree, I followed the same path and never been happier 👍

[@nikolatesla3968]

Even 2-channel audio can be a perpetual treadmill for those continually chasing the "latest and greatest" technology. Where each person chooses to jump off that treadmill is up to the individual.

[@Arkasai]

I did a full Atmos surround system for several years and it was just too much hassle between hiding all the wires and doing room correction every time I changed something. It was cool when content took full advantage of it but you need a flagship surround reciever to get the power necessary to drive 5+ speakers; especially if you’ve had monoblock power amps and know what proper amplicication sounds like. Two properly driven floor standers are impossible to beat dollar for dollar.

[@starmc26]

I prefer multi-channel stereo over surround sound. It's like 2-channel but on steroids.

[@K11...]

Surround sound was developed to give a large audience a good experience. If you are alone in the sweetspot how ever I agree that 2 channel can be better in some ways. But you will not get the same directional sound effects as you do with rear speakers in a high end system imo.

[@youandiryan]

I just got a toslink optical cable after just using Bluetooth to transmit audio for the longest time. And I am absolutely gobsmacked. The sound quality with optical is absolutely insane.

[@ramencurry6672]

Gobsmacked?

[@DavideNastri]

We also have to remember that you moved from Bluetooth and... Anything, IMHO, is better than that. I'd go for 3.5mm copper cable over Bluetooth any day.

[@youandiryan]

@@ramencurry6672 Yo brother I think you need to use a dictionary and look it up. You'll see what it means.

[@LM-nb7rj]

​@@ramencurry6672when you get so blown away that you have to invent a new word to describe just how amazing it is 😂

[@emanuel6349]

@@LM-nb7rj I've actually heard the term "gobsmacked" quite a few times in my life!

[@Intoxacajun]

WOW! Thank you soo much for doing these videos! We recently bought a new Sony A80J TV and set up was pretty easy but I hooked everything up like my old TV and could not get the sound to work good. The picture is truly amazing but I did not know the all the different sound connection possibilities. Finally got it working with my sound system but only by watching your videos explaining the differences. Your videos help so many people like me who do not have a good knowledge of this ever-changing world of the new TV's not only to make good decisions when buying but also how to best set up for our specific taste. Once again thank you for all you do.

[@colinsteam]

Yeah, I had exact same problem and this vid got me on track.

[@brooks177]

Optical vs HDMI Audio is very dependant on ones setup and content usage. There was no mention of making sure all your devices that you're connecting are actually capable of sending and receiving the same audio formats. Newer Samsung and LG TVs for example don't support any DTS formats and older TVs may only support up to basic 5.1 Dolby Digital/DTS or 7.1 Dolby Digital True HD/DTS-MA. Some soundbars support only PCM and Dolby Digital or support Dolby Atmos but not DTS X, so it's very important to know what your devices are capable of sending and receiving and whether you're better off connecting directly to your audio system or the TV. I would also add that the overall majority of content, both physical and digital is still at best basic Dolby Digital/DTS/PCM 5.1. So no, you don't NEED an Atmos or DTS X setup. Quite honestly unless your setup has actual physical speakers for rear surround, height channel, center channel and/or a sub all you're getting is fake fancy processing from your audio system if it's receiving anything beyond 2.0 PCM/DD/DTS... your speaker/channel count needs to match or exceed the audio format you're listening to.

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

Brooks Carter thank you for your clear and concise explanation of how different equipment can and can't support all the different sound formats. This hobby can be very confusing for users such as myself who I might add has been trying to figure out the ever changing world of hi-fi sound for longer than I can remember. I feel that by the time I have a good understanding of hi-fi and all that comes with it my old ears will no longer be able to make good use of it or at least to a very full appreciation of what it is capable of....lol

[@Loneranger670]

Thank you for taking your time to share this info. It’s very kind of you and I learnt everything I needed to know in one paragraph 👊🏻

[@kovrcek]

Well even native atmos content in most cases is not mind blowing, at least what I read about it and heard myself (latest being TG Maverick). But modern receivers have Neural X which is able to quite aggressively upmix all content to atmos speakers, even better than atmos mix itself in most cases. Sound engineers are maybe too lazy or nobody really knows, but only few movies have "proper" active atmos mix that uses height channels dynamically and most of all for some real effect. Usually it's just atmospheric or too quiet etc. At least this is what I gathered from ppl who have that.

[@bumblebvr6]

I have a Sony Bravia TV (‘21 model) that had ARC hdmi but using an older receiver that doesn’t. The receiver does have hdmi inputs, but I don’t always watch everything with my receiver on which powers a simple 5.1 setup. I’m using an optic cable from the tv to receiver and using the tv as the hub for fire stick and ps5. Seems to work just fine and I doubt the human ear can even distinguish the difference between the signals correct?

[@kovrcek]

@@bumblebvr6 well you sure as hell can hear a big difference when playing higher bandwidth audio on quality and revealing speakers. I'm on optical and can hear a big jump in quality/bass/rear channels from going 300kbps to let's say 1500kbps. So with HDMI your limit is much higher so should be possible to hear it as well without any issues. Compressed vs uncompressed audio is a big difference.

[@v4847]

HDMI continues to amaze me. Thanks for this video. I've been using optical my whole life and will start paying attention to ARC.

[@djcordes4352]

I’m a two channel guy. The toslonk into a good D/A converter sounds amazing if with movies. I’d rather have huge main speakers and a big sub than lots of midfi speakers and poor power amplification. It’s amazing how good your center image is when you have speakers that image well!

[@1337sim1]

@@djcordes4352 I'm with you on that one. A good 2.1, 2.2 or 2.4 system is freaking AWESOME 😎

[@screamingeekmedia]

I am using the optical myself from tv to receiver, which is a Denon model I bought in 2007 and doesn't have HDMI ARC. My important audio sources (4K UHD and HD-DVD) go directly to receiver.

[@BenUrquidez]

For home automation, ARC can be very iffy and unreliable. But for the average living room, it’s super convenient. Hiding your components in a cabinet or closet and running HDMI to the TV is a very attractive option for most. Optical is still more reliable for simple 2-3 zone A/V zones, unless you’re running a high end control system like Savant or C4 which offer IP audio solutions.

[@Avril.Lavigne]

​@JR1505 Does your engineer friend prefer Optical?

[@Avril.Lavigne]

@JR1505 kay thanks dude.! If you can ask him I'll be waiting.. i appreciate it! 🙋‍♂️ ..morning

[@bertrandgrandgeorge1052]

A couple of things: 1. TOS link is resilient to electromagnetic interferences as it is light instead of electricty in the wire. Can be a better option when one of the devices is not well grounded for exemple 2. The optic fiber or optical cable is not what limits the bandwidth; it is more about how/what the source and receiver are capable of encoding into light

[@tomooo2637]

With regard to issue (1) there a LOT of issues a few years ago with problems of PVR/DVD recorders "not working" and the manufactures and shops could not understand the problem - even when explained in many blogs. If you use a crap HDMI lead without proper grounding connections to the shielding then 1080p digital encoded signal is around 1-4gHz depending on the encoding etc. The UHF signal for digital TV (your country may vary) is around 0.3-4Ghz. When you set your PVR/DVD to record a TV show it just recorded "no signal". The problem was that the digital signal in the unshielded HDMI cable created a massive interference emission that swamped the shielding on a TV coaxial cable - and killed the digital TV signal. Of course, you could watch the TV, you could watch PVR/DVD - so all looked fine, it just meant you could not do both - hence no recording. Beware of crap HDMI . TOS link itself creates no EMF, but the signal generator/decoder at each do, but generally TV's and other devices are properly made with metal shielding for the circuits and grounding. Beware of cheep stuff.

[@reestyfarts]

Absolutely correct. My internet service is fiber optic, carrying audio/video to every device in the house.

[@clanc433]

@@tomooo2637 That's completely incorrect. HDMI could never produce a signal that could swamp a coaxial cable signal, its a 5 volt line. There's not enough power there to create the interference, even on directed frequencies. Coaxial cable can be dropped on top of 220v transformers and show no interference on the line. If your assertion were true, every power line, your cell phone, your wi-fi, and you car would create enough interference to decimate signal everywhere. I've had HDMI receivers for the better part of 15 years. Two separate lines, always on at the same time, usually running within a few feet of each other. To add, I've never run into unshielded HDMI cable, its part of the IEEE rating, if you're buying cables without IEEE ratings on them, that's your own fault. HDMI also has frequency standards, and they are the following: Category 1-certified cables, which have been tested at 74.25 MHz (which would include resolutions such as 720p60 and 1080i60), and Category 2-certified cables, which have been tested at 340 MHz (which would include resolutions such as 1080p60 and 4K30) I don't know where you got your information from, but its 100 percent wrong.

[@rgruenhaus]

Cheap material for optic transmission can limit light travel especially when long optic lengths are used and transmitting devices don't provide adequate light amps with high speed capabilities.

[@Jill-wb7ud]

​@@rgruenhauslength isn't cheap . I know that I'm not 😅

[@philippeterson9512]

I had an Onkyo receiver that I bought in 1992. It was a beast, and had great sound, but it was all analog. I had been using it in my Garage/workshop. But then on a black Friday I got a 55 inch 4K TV, And suddenly my receiver was obsolete. I had another receiver that I put in there, but the sound just wasn’t quite as good, even though it had all the HDMI inputs. I really couldn’t afford a new receiver for my garage, but then on Facebook marketplace I happened across a deal on from 2000. It cost about $3000 new, and I got it for $75. It had a optical digital input. I went from the TV to this receiver and my God it sounds great! I’m keeping my eye out for another great deal so I can replace my mediocre Home theater receiver with an amazing receive that’s about 20 years old and pay pennies on the dollar for it.

[@waynebelfast]

I just bout a BOSE Soundbar 600 and was gonna use digital optical purely for simplicity. I'm glad I looked this video up before setting it up. Cheers.

[@gilbertrios5283]

Wow! Long live toslink! Definitely the most unique digital connector out of them all and the most hated by audiophiles! I just recently got into TV subscription streaming after many years with dish network and bought a 65" Amazon fire TV. The TV has all the options for audio output including Arc, Earc, and optical. My old school Theta Digital Casablanca though updated to decode lossless audio sans Atmos and X does not have Arc or Earc but it does have a toslink input! So lo and behold, after many years of being absent in my AV rig, Toslink has made a return and serving me well! Long live Toslink lol

[@GODHATESADOPTION]

wait you actually pay? for stuff? been pirating since 93...

[@zeroa69]

Ya but spdif doesnt have enough bandwith to support genuine atmos/dtsX signals hence the takeover of Earc. Personally i prefer the laser i wish they would upgrade that tech. Absolutely no interference over spdif regardless of the pricetag of the cord.

[@gilbertrios5283]

@@zeroa69 it's streaming bro I'm fine with no atmos or dts x, those encodes take enormous bandwidth.

[@movie_av_impulse]

Great video I stopped using optical years ago but it's still important to know the difference. Hdmi to me is better due to having dolby atmos.

[@myquietreviews]

I stopped using HDMI Arc because sometimes it can be a real pain 🤦🏾🤷🏾

[@movie_av_impulse]

@@myquietreviews I still do but I just turn it on and off when I use or don't use it! I feel sometimes the sound coming out of the tv to the receiver sounds better than hooking the 4k blu-ray player up to the receiver itself 🤷🏽‍♂️ but I do feel your pain I hate the switching it on and off! Life of an Audioholic 🤣

[@medbelheni9488]

@@movie_av_impulse excuse my noob question, do i need a sound system/bar in order to use the eARC hdmi port? I mean is it worth it to connect my PS5 to the hdmi eARC port? Is there a benefit?!

[@movie_av_impulse]

@@medbelheni9488 without a receiver and or soundbar! (Which you have to make sure they both your receiver and tv have earc) you won't be able to use earc or arc. Like for instance my tv only has arc but my receiver has both. So I can still have arc but not earc. Anymore questions I'll be happy to help.

[@BattleRapMultiverse]

Depending on the TV, optical can do DTS, dobly true HD, Doble atmos via optical, it just depends on the the TV itself. I use to use hdmi through eArc, but the hdmi port on my receiver went bad, so I opted for upgrading my TV to a u6g, and the audio pass through on that tv is magnificent, every codec and dobly feature you get through hdmi, you also get through optical. Edit: the other benefit of the optical is that I can still use the TV speakers, eArc with the hdmi overrides your sound default to the receiver, but through optical, I can turn off receiver and just use the quieter TV speakers, for me it's a benefit since my kids don't wake up from the bass or rumbling at night, I can't switch to the TV speakers on demand and just shut off the receiver.

[@superdlucks]

There is also a speed issue with Optical. It may not matter any more but this is a true story. When I moved, originally, I didn't connect my optical cable, just HDMI. I was having issues with both Rock Band and Guitar Hero, again, a decade ago. The lag was so bad, I couldn't play the game, when I reached out to one of the developers for help, they told me the game requires an optical connection to ensure the least amount of lag. Once I connected the optical connection from my PlayStation, the in game audio synced with my physical inputs. Crazy how something so disposable can prove to be a factor.

[@josephmartinez7363]

Optical audio could be more capable than hdmi arc, but, they decided instead improve the hdmi. The best internet so far is through optical cable, carries up to 12 k videos and dolby atmos hd

[@LM-nb7rj]

That's crazy how something invented in the 80's can be just as good if not better than HDMI ARC in certain situations.

[@jbalazer]

For rhythm games, the issue isn't really HDMI vs. optical. The issue is how the connections are routed between the devices. You want the game console connected directly to a dedicated audio device (whether by analog, optical, or HDMI) so that the audio is reproduced with minimal lag. The player is responding to sound, so any delay would affect gameplay and scoring. What you don't want is audio sent to the TV by HDMI or from the TV by HDMI ARC, as these route the audio through the TV. The TV will delay the audio to keep it in sync with the video, which is delayed by the TV's video processing. An optical cable from the TV to a sound device doesn't help either, as the TV will delay that audio output. Keeping the video and audio in sync is of course desirable for most video watching, just not for rhythm games.

[@RoyRichard-bg8yc]

I use both, HDMI plays a role for many other modern source devices especially for object based audio. And Optical is only used for lossy audio output from digital Satellites, IPTV, Terrestrial or Cable tvs.

[@nelsonpiedade61]

and for high end PC Gaming.i for one use it only.and creative sond blaster Z conected to a HT Creative D5500 set of 5.1 digital speakers is my must have for game like a Pro all night long with pristine surround sound that blows all off the 2 stereo sounds set out off the water.

[@thomaswarnders5222]

i was expecting a super long video, but you explained it so clearly that i was amezed at how quick the video was over. Thank you for the info.

[@Blessindisguise]

These basic info vidoes are soooo important! I always have to teach people about these things!

[@gregrich91]

optical was a fun time: I got a $8 audio switch from monoprice so I could switch between TV, PC, and Xbox... because it was a simple physical fiberoptic switch

[@Cakebattered]

Optical cables can absolutely transmit Dolby Digital +. When Blu-ray and HD DVD were first launched, very few AVRs even accepted any audio over HDMI, so they would be connected via optical or digital coax. At the very least, DD+ is seen as DTS by the AVR. If a soundbar can't accept Dobly Digital + over optical, that's limitation of that soundbar not toslink.

[@PixelPotionCafe]

No and No. TOSLINK support Dolby Digital, not Dolby Digital Plus. You can't "see" DD+ and DTS because those are totally different surround formats by competing companies. DTS Surround came out around the same time as Dolby Digital and uses a different compression, but is otherwise similar in quality and capability. DD+ isn't allowed over TOSLINK due to DRM issues. When you saw DTS, you were getting DTS, not DD+

[@leocompany]

@@PixelPotionCafeyou are both wrong DD+ uses an DD core same goes for DTS HD its using an DTS core. Due to the bandwidth limitations it will automatically get downscaled to the pure core meaning 5.1 DTS or DD in fact many soundbars and soundsystem from 2009 and up use the same chip for HDMI ARC and Optical input meaning you won’t get more than just the DD and DTS core. Even if those systems supposedly support Dolby Digital Plus or DTS. So we learn Dolby ATMOS is mostly a Dolby Digital Plus stream which is in fact just Dolby Digital so yes you can technically transmit Dolby Atmos via optical at the end it will just be DD

[@PixelPotionCafe]

​​@@leocompany Go ahead and force a DD+ signal into an older device that doesn't support DD+ and you will get nothing or trash. If the device even allows it over toslink, its breaking the law. DD does not support the extra channels of Atmos. You can NOT send Atmos over DD. You cannot send DD+ or Atmos over optical. The chip may negotiate DD as a fallback, but that is not sending Atmos over toslink.

[@steveschmidt2231]

Just set up my new Sony a80l. Connected digital/optical cable to my Sony xv800 Bluetooth speaker. Amazing! With the in screen speakers on the TV and the bump of the subs in the speaker sounds great.

[@Renniz72]

You covered most of the issues with optical except two things. Many televisions limit the sample rate to 48kHz with optical, but go up to 192kHz with HDMI and the spec supports up to 2 channel 24 bit/192kHz . Second, most manufactures got rid of analog out which was useful if you want to use the internal DAC with an analog receiver .

[@tinytownsoftware3837]

Sure, but 48kHz is plenty for everyone.

[@hyikoyo2501]

@@tinytownsoftware3837 not for everyone. if you give me a sample of 192khz and 44 48 64 or anything else lower ill notice right away. for some like me its very important to get the full width. its called audiophile and its like an sickness. dont look into it tho or you will be one too. cant get out of it and its expensive as hell

[@tinytownsoftware3837]

@@hyikoyo2501 I sincerely doubt that you will notice the difference between 192 and 44. First of all, 16bit vs 24bit is much more important than the frequency. Second, most music is not recorded at 192. Even 96 is relatively rare. So if you're upscaling to either of those from 44.1 or 48, that does absolutely nothing to the quality.

[@rgruenhaus]

It's all about how they limit each model to upsell another model. Like crystal UHD and QLED differences.

[@FuriousTortoise]

@@tinytownsoftware3837you must have missed the part where he said it was “a sickness”. It doesn’t matter what is sampled when psychoacoustics get involved.

[@GoLion]

Optical still sounds great for my soundbar in the guest room. No complaints.

[@paul8926]

Great video, you would be surprised that many people still use old HDMI cables on there eARC connections, instead of UltraHD High Speed 4K HDMI cables. Glad you’re posting on this information ℹ️

[@nickmcclaughry8699]

Hello! Would this help my volume issue with streaming apps?

[@paul8926]

@@nickmcclaughry8699 Yes, I think it would

[@nickmcclaughry8699]

@@paul8926 thank you!

[@paul8926]

@@nickmcclaughry8699 👍🏼

[@oggyoggy1299]

Haha!

[@transfo47]

Love the rainy Portland background in this video. Makes it feel cozy.

[@gstar7686]

My Onkyo audio receiver is still working perfectly after nearly 20 years and sounds great through both optical and digital coax. I'll stay with digital optical until it craps out and it's time to buy a new one.

[@outerheaven1000]

I have a pioneer receiver of a similar age and it was on the cusp of HDMI coming out as it had 2 HDMI inputs great receiver for what it is

[@oggyoggy1299]

Okay.

[@madmax8620]

Hey question... i have a decade old A/V receiver with hdmi ports, i just got a new tv, am I supposed to connect BOTH the HDMI AND the OPTICAL to the old receiver that I want to use? Also, which audio cord does the tv and receiver default to when both are connected?? Thanks pros!

[@electrofreaknl6303]

Thank you soo much! For explaining the setting pcm and the other one. I bought a soundbar with speakers in the back and no matter what I did. The sound was the same with all speakers. So I heard people talking in movies from the back really loud.. and I was so confused and disappointed about the sound. Almost returned it. Until I saw your video 😁

[@be_a_bright_sparkle3687]

I’ve had a sound bar for a few months and couldn’t see what the fuss was sounded exactly the same as the tv. I didn’t even know about the settings. 🤣

[@grimdicer152]

Awesome explanation. I feel most people within the TV tech field don't do this enough.

[@SwashBuccaneer]

I'm tempted to just use optical because I hate having one of my HDMI ports taken up and it would be nice to have all of my consoles hooked up at once without having swap things out based on what I feel like playing. I already have 1 HDMI switch box hooked up. What's interesting is that I got an LG C2 OLED and a nice LG Soundbar system for Christmas and it only came with an optical cable and not an HDMI. The old Samsung sound bar came with an HDMI cable and not optical.

[@MRAPEXPREDATOR1]

I have just got the C2 and bought the USC9 sound bar which pretty much is designed for the C2/C3. Would you use HDMI Arc guys for this ?

[@Adeyum64]

Same, but since I only have 5.1, it shouldn't matter right? The problem is, I have both a PS5 and gaming PC. Both capable of 120Hz ofc. However HDMI 3 is the one with ARC & 120Hz compatibility. So I have to give up ARC, to use both HDMI for PS5 and PC. Very inconvinient sadly, but I guess I just have to roll with it.

[@christopherleandredcruz4271]

I use optical its much easier for music. Hdmi is good for watching movie I keep separate systems I dont run behind high resolution audio I believe CD quality is the best for music and undoubtedly stereo. I own Yamaha DSP A2 which i still feel the best compared to latest for stereo listening. I use Steinberg sound card as dac to convert digital streaming to my old yamaha which lacked hdmi ( laptop - dac - amp) I do have a pair of Genelec speakers which satisfies me a lot . Desktop setup ( computer - DAC (Schiit Audio modi) - Loki mini (mini equaliser) - Genelec) For movie - I use Denon pre amp to genelec 4020 x 5 active speakers + klipcsh spl 120

[@mr.jazzfusionhiphop1298]

Here is my story and I'm sticking to it. I use the Optical cable because this way I can watch the TV and play music at the same time. That's right HDMI cable from the cable box to the TV, Optical output from the TV to the receiver.🤔

[@alexlanning712]

Thanks for giving the info in a coherent, direct manner!

[@Passionate747]

I want to express my sincere gratitude for your outstanding assistance in setting up my soundbar. Your expertise and patience made the process seamless, and the audio quality is now exceptional. Thank you for your professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction. I truly appreciate your invaluable support.♥

[@LFOVCF]

My tip for Toslink, is push it in, until you get a satisfying snap. Good sockets have a kind of semi lock snap, so push quite firmly. Failure to push in properly will result in garbled audio.

[@oggyoggy1299]

Haha!

[@ade531001gmail]

Yeah and take the protective caps off first!

[@AnonymousMisspeller]

Loved the video. Took a look at some of the comments and just want to Second a motion (comment). You got to the subject and made your points eloquently and concisely. Easy to follow and engaging. So many videos out here where people spend more time being full of themselves and less time saying something useful. Wish more were like you. Thanks.

[@MrShakero]

HDMI is more convenient - u can change volume using standard remote instad of the one dedicated to soundbar

[@zachvalzach2434]

I can change the volume of my optical soundbar using my TV remote.

[@Noticerofthings]

@@zachvalzach2434 same via xfinity box

[@riickyworld1]

My sound bar is connected to my tv via Optical cable, it’s the only connection and it’s a 2021 sound bar, I can change the volume with the tv controller but the tv or the sound bar displays the volume number, which is a bit annoying. But the bar has these little lights that flashes everytime I change the volume.

[@catminister3327]

I havent bothered with optical cables for years. I now tend to go with the higher end HDMI cables - avoid soundbars and most devices that require wireless connections running through my Pioneer VSX 933 AVR

[@dniel97]

3:07 is wrong... S/PDIF only has support for Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1. Only Dolby Digital Plus supports 7.1 which cannot be transmitted via S/PDIF.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Well, yes and no...sort of. The reason why this is so commonly confused is because S/PDIF connections do certainly support Dolby Digital and DTS in a 5.1 signal configuration. However, they will also support the far less common Dolby Digital EX audio format as well. That's an extension to the standard Dolby Digital 5.1 codec that came out back in 1999. It adds a matrixed rear channel creating a 6.1 channel output. Some receivers can then up-mix that 6.1 signal to a pseudo 7.1 by distributing the single rear channel signal to both rear surround speakers. So, can you get 7.1 discrete channels over S/PDIF? Certainly not. Can you get a matrixed, up-mixed, pseudo 7.1 channels out of the signal passed over an S/PDIF connection? Yes, if you have the right receiver.

[@dniel97]

@@michaelbeckerman7532 Yes indeed, you can only do 5.1 or matrixed 6.1 which are not 7.1 ;) and especially as it's not transmitted via S/PDIF.

[@decibellx2194]

look above fool.

[@wakeupcall2665]

I have a 2011 Yamaha AV Receiver, and an Apple TV 4K 2022 Box and a Hisense TV (with eARC and HDMI 2.1) The Apple Box is connected to the HDMi 2.1 port of the TV, and the TV is connected to the Yamaha from the eARC HDMI 2.1 port The Yamaha supports only ARC, however, each of the remotes does the basic stuff volume control, on/off for example. I have a 2012 Harman Kardon soundbar with subwoofer connected to the Yamaha with banana plugs, and the sound is amazing! I am seriously taken away by how clear and crisp the sound is. I don’t think I need to fuss about with surround this and Dolby whatever that. In my particular living room set up I am extremely happy with the sound from that Yamaha/Harmon Kardon pair.

[@Arrozconchopsticks]

ARC isn't reliable for me so I have to use optical until I can upgrade my receiver. It may not sound the best, but it still sounds good and it always works.

[@kelownatechkid]

optical audio for life. digital signals without any electrical interference, no wasted hdmi ports... it's the best of the best! toslink -> DAC -> AMP -> speakers = great sound for movies

[@Avril.Lavigne]

I agree I also prefer Optical cable! Dude, can you tell me if there is any DAC/AMP to use in conjunction with Soundbar??

[@shawnbaird2015]

I need this guy in my basement so he can get my stuff working🤔

[@brianjonesg8aso403]

I used to have my Harmon Kardon soundbar connected vis optical, it worked, but took up to 2 minutes to synchronise the sound and sometimes it didn't even mange that. I changed to HDMI arc and it now switches on at the same time as the TV, is correctly synchronised from the outset and everything works smoothly as it should. That's my experience.

[@amirsan278]

With optic cable the sound is much better and clear then hdmi in my av reciver , sony str dn1080 I think mixing of video and audio signals in the same cable cause electronic interference. With all due respect to all the formats that HDMI can transmit, They still haven't addressed the basic problem, Which is complete isolation of the cords between audio and video in an HDMI cable.

[@lowlifegarage]

I had no clue about any of this. And you explained it extremely well. Thank you

[@geminiguy2001]

Unless I'm doing something wrong (and I probably am), I have better results using my remote control when using the optical inputs on my new LG TV and Sound bar. When I tried HDMI, I had to use separate TV, sound bar and cable remotes which was rather inconvenient. With the optical, my cable remote took care of most functions.

[@anglik3954]

It should actually work the other way round. It's the HDMI-ARC with CEC that takes care of a single-remote-for-all-your-devices functionality, I've only discovered it recently myself :)

[@Avril.Lavigne]

But that's right. LG TVs in conjunction with an LG Soundbar gain this convenience even via Optical.

[@Devintandy]

Thanks for go over this information, I have no clue how to use these cable until now! I feel confident when I purchase my TV I will be able to get the most out of the sound system I have.

[@B.D.F.]

Why haven’t they updated TosLink like they have HDMI? Aren’t fibre optic cables capable of way more bandwidth?

[@ZenRyoku]

the simple answer is forget anything except hdmi high bandwidth cables (minimum 32 gbps, but shoot for 48 gbps) there is no company that makes a better cable than Monster...💯 💯 💯 💯 💯 get the gold tips... i use only exclusive MONSTER cable, not is it the best of the best...but you can literally cut a monster cable with wire cutters....you send them back and pay shipping....they have a lifetime warranty on everything they make... i play an ibanez S470 with monster rock cables and the sound is unparalleled...💯 ive been using them way before they started making hdmi cables....and there is just nothing better....period 💯 you can arrange any type of sound setup dolby dts 5.1 7.1 and everything in between... as long as you have your audio /visual equipment setup properly....you can achieve anything your heart and ears desire.... trust me on this...your looking at $30-$50 per cable no matter what you get....but it's weeeeelllll worth the money.... ..

[@wendysorbust]

I wish more Technology publications would talk about the issues several TV manufactures have when passing audio through the TV set. The average consumer uses their tv as a hub, and typically has a sound bar connected via HDMI ARC for their sound. Several manufactures (LG and Vizio) I have personally had issues with, will not pass through surround properly to the connected audio device. Neither LG nor Vizio will properly pass through Linear PCM, and instead convert it to a stereo sound. Going through a AV Receiver then through your TV also has a list of known issues as well. From HDR/Dolby Vision not working properly, to flickering and even the image not processing properly. Getting surround sound to work properly from my PS5 through my LG C2 and into my Vizio Atmos Surround sound was a chore and a guess work of what configuration of tv/console settings would work properly.

[@Tomhyde098]

I own a TX-SR600 from 2003. It’s still a powerhouse and I’m lucky is has a optical input. I’ve been to a buddy’s house a few times that has Atmos and…it’s okay. Not enough of a difference to drop a lot of money on a new receiver when mine is doing great still and I love 5.1. The only issue I have is with some movies that have Atmos on the disc is sounds quieter than a 5.1 mix.

[@SHO1989]

Absolutely. Older Sony surround receivers all seem to have optical and like my STR-DE545 they can be had for $50 to $75 bucks on eBay, Craigslist, tag sales etc. The amp and electronics in that are better than most sound bars. You can also get used very good speakers for a song so the sound set up is less than a high end sound bar.

[@Tomhyde098]

@@SHO1989 I just found a full Kenwood surround sound speaker set for $10 at Goodwill. It didn’t have a subwoofer though and I just got one in the mail today.

[@MoistMoments]

03:15 for your answer

[@ev1558]

I'll take optical any day. After installing for decades, KISS (keep it simple stupid) holds true. Make it simple for the customer to understand/USE. IMO unless your an audiophile or like to measure things ;) most people don't appreciate the high end audio options.

[@superdlucks]

I loved optical because it's simple and easy, but I now you it limits you. Optical has plenty of applications, but for those of us who have uncompressed capabilities, it's clear we need HDMI. After all these years, they should have released a new option version to compete with HDMI. Feels like that would have been the logical step after 30 years.

[@varframppytwobtokwanguz2286]

I have a vintage analog receiver as crisp and natural as birdsong on a spring day. The least expensive audio converters I found that can handle Dolby only do optical and not HDMI audio. So for my situation the solution is a no brainer.

[@mattbabcock4535]

Great video! Have you ever done one about the differences between HDMI cables and how to choose the best one for your needs?

[@jimherold7827]

I spent almost $300 on a high end Audioquest HDMI cable for my PS5, and I can personally see and hear a difference from the provided HDMI cable, but maybe I'm just deluding myself to justify the price.

[@oggyoggy1299]

@@jimherold7827 You certainly are.

[@jimherold7827]

@@oggyoggy1299 🤷‍♂

[@kenmetalman]

Thanks mate, for someone who nothing about this tech stuff. You explained it perfectly .

[@leonardopapantoniou4227]

The problem with hdmi is that is useful for receivers but receivers have too high total distortion rate for the money compared to stereo dac amp setups of same money. The dacs usually recognize optical, not hdmi

[@speedmanxx]

Stumbled upon this video by accident but found it very helpful. I have a new LG B2 65 inch inbound and had no idea I could use the HDMI arc on my surround sound.

[@jayozuna7366]

Have same tv how do u get sound from receiver to tv🧐🧐🧐🧐

[@lucasn82_]

You can send Dolby Atmos over Toslink and BT even. There are devices that can do that. Toslink max "band" is 125mbps. Optical cable has zero electromagnetic interferences.

[@bigsteve8921]

can you provide a link to one of these devices?

[@lucasn82_]

@@bigsteve8921 WLA-NS7 Sony BT transmiter.

[@johnpaine72]

Hello and thank you for simply explaining the sound system and settings. I've recently upgraded and it's been a hard slog (For someone not technology minded to work out!) Especially the no sound or sound lagg... been so frustrating. But with your help of multiple videos I will endeavour to sort this once and for all by upgrading cables, use eARC and fingers crossed get that sweet Dolby sound coming though. Many thanks again. so Helpful.

[@briankleinschmidt3664]

I didn't realize how old the optical cable was. I have always just assumed that fiber optics was going to deliver the best signal.

[@nelsonpiedade61]

and it does. in some scenarios where you wont to have less moyse from electromanetic sources like pc for example.

[@chrisy4011]

For interference it's better.

[@FeedScrn]

Good video.... - In my house, there is a Class A monster Receiver 7.1 channels - that is hooked up via ARC to the TV.. And when I'm in the mood, I have a speaker switcher box hooked up to the two front speakers.. and a small Class D Loxjie amp hooked up using the Optical fiber cable to the optical connection on the same TV. The system works well on both sides.

[@chanthana7694]

I have an older Sony TV so my option is the optic cable. Since the soundbar came with HDMI I connected both HDMI and Optic. Why not, the more the merrier may be? 🤣. I'm not good with tech stuff so not sure if it's right, should I be worried? Although I'm not experiencing the surrounded or immersive sound like Sony HT-G700 claim it to be but I do have sound and things shaking when I set the volume high. 🤔

[@kovrcek]

I wouldn't do that, the soundbar might blow up from all that audio signal !

[@chanthana7694]

At first that's what I thought using just the optic cable but when referring to Sony HT-G700 instruction for TV with normal HDMI without ARC, the picture shows both optic and HDMI cables are connecting to the back of TV and soundbar. I was confused so did what it said. Was reluctant to remove because I wasn't sure and had already hung the TV back to the wall so it would be a bit challenging to take it back down. If it's going to create an issue down the road, I guess I'll just have to take the one I don't need down. Thank you all for responding, appreciate it.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

I purchased a Monster cable S Video (digital optical) for my 2002 Sony S master home theater system. Sound still is amazing for my New/old system.

[@ogshotglass9291]

Great, informative video! However, forgot one thing: some TV's will only allow surround sound in EITHER connection by switching to Bitstream audio on the TV. And if you have a cable box/ satellite receiver connected, you can turn surround sound on or off there, too.

[@clansman89]

Thank you so much for explanation about differences and especially about PCM and Bitstream.

[@PixelPotionCafe]

A few notes. TOSLINK is prone to jitter and has no copy protection. This is the reason why you need HDMI for DD+ and newer formats. It's not about the bandwidth as many toslink interfaces (and especially coax s/pdif interfaces) can actually handle very high bandwidth. Second, if you use an AVR, your AVR can better adjust both video and sound than your TV. You should be plugging everything into your AVR! Unless you use the built-in smart apps on your TV (I don't as I use Chromecast because the Vizio interface is clunky and buggy), then you don't need ARC! I see so many people saying that the TV has to support Atmos and you need eARC and all this other stuff when they have everything plugged into an AVR. When using an HDMI source for audio, ARC isn't used and your TV doesn't play a part in the audio game! AVR sends video to TV and plays the audio itself - the AVR has to support the fancy audio codecs, not the TV. ARC is sending back audio that the TV itself is getting and in this case, the TV must be able to pass-through the audio to the AVR. Optical also can't do CEC, like volume control of your AVR or turning on/off other devices! It's basically dead. Thanks to DRM, you don't see anything new being compatible with TOSLINK anymore.

[@estusflask982]

There is no such thing as jitter - there is a buffer at both ends of the connection.

[@PixelPotionCafe]

@@estusflask982 No such thing as jitter? Are you fucking serious? Go read anything about phase locked loops (aka PLL) and clock recovery. The clock has to be recovered and jitter is a FACT in all digital clocks. Just happens to be a huge issue in optical systems.

[@chrisoconnell1071]

9

[@johnrobins795]

Caleb, been awhile, LOVED your review of the Pioneer Elite BDP-88FD and seeing you now, you looked AWESOME, even younger in some ways. Way to go, hoping for my reversion to my state of fitness, prior to getting married 10 years ago and now working 2 jobs since the Spouse retired but with too meager of retirement savings. Ah, happy times!

[@arydream]

Nice explanation, I was confused before which one to use.

[@sasikancharla5791]

Finally which is the best?

[@superdlucks]

I'm glad I watched this, I have been having Blu Ray audio and SACD issues, looks like I need to upgrade to a HDMI system. I have a Techniques 5.1 system that I love, but it's only digital connections are optical. I have a Samsung 7.1 system that I bought about a decade ago, that I have never set up. It has HDMI, but none of the parts are ARC, I didn't even know if that technology existed 10 years ago. Seeing as SACD goes back 20 year, I'd like to believe switching to that receiver would hive me the audio experience I have been trying to enjoy for the past decade.

[@nadaproblem3023]

Set up the 7.1!!!

[@superdlucks]

@@nadaproblem3023 I probably will this month. Hard to let go of this Technics system after close to 20 years, but I need to ensure I'm getting the best out of my media collection. I also can't wait for a true 5.1 blu ray audio and SACD experience.

[@mae2759]

I just like the Toslink connection simply because it doesn't eat up an HDMI slot on your TV.

[@superdlucks]

I feel that, I helped a friend set up his new 75 in Samsung TV and Surround system. The TV only had 2 HDMI slots. Compared to the 55 In LG he upgraded from with 4. He ended up buying an HDMI switch since he has 4 devices to connect.

[@leerogers9192]

Best simple explanation with actual screen shots of where to plug in.

[@bunsie]

Digital Coaxial has a higher frequency range for PCM than Toslink (Optical), and 5.1 surround capability. I broke my optical-in on receiver and now use a high-frequency coaxial converter and was surprised with higher frequency response and better sound quality I can hear.

[@superdadmoney]

The quicksand is then the cable quality. When dealing with copper connections, cable quality, build and QC can play a role. It’s actually one of the more fun tinkerings you can do with cables. If you can get your hands on a $100 cable AND a $1,000 cable…you’ll be staggered by the potential difference in a “digital” cable. After all…they’re all just 1’s and 0’s.

[@hepphepps8356]

@@superdadmoney Just. No.

[@superdadmoney]

@@hepphepps8356 24 year pro…a great cable will slap you in the face with how good it is. So sure “no” is the best answer if you can’t afford the expensive one. Your system will start to sound broken without it.

[@ryanm4013]

@@superdadmoneyI can attest to higher end cables delivering better performance. I worked in a very high end A/V store for 7 years and it was amazing the difference that cables could have. To someone who either cannot afford good cables or someone who doesn’t have a good working set of ears, they aren’t going to hear a difference and will justify junk cables to their end. However anyone who has the physical ability to tell the difference, it’s a game changer!

[@JohnG975]

Watched a handful of your videos now and you do a great job breaking things down quick, and easy to understand.

[@axontech]

HDMI = Habitually Down, Multiple Issues...

[@charlesshamseldin9555]

I can't stand the HDMI standard. I miss the days when audio was on one cable and video on another. Everything worked every time. No handshake issues, no loud pops when switching sources. No needing to unplug all my sources for some random reason. No random waking of my blu ray player when I want to play PS5 No having to re buy all my cables because my old ones don't support 4k120 The list goes on and on.

[@yoneyo87]

😂😂😂

[@Jayrod64]

I actually use optical a lot for gaming headsets which support it. Optical just allows my headset to work with anything connected to the TV, whether that's a Nintendo Switch, an old PS2 or OG Xbox, Gamecube, you name it. As long it's hooked up to the TV, any input can send audio to my headset with just the one optical cable. I still use ARC for my soundbar, but Atmos is mostly handled over USB(since I primarily listen with gaming headsets). In fact USB audio does most of the things HDMI can but for gaming headsets.

[@mrchiledonut]

That's spatial audio from headphones. It's not the same as the actual height speaker audio you get from a receiver/soundbar.

[@Jayrod64]

@@mrchiledonut That's true, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't impressed when I tried Dolby Atmos for Headphones LOL

[@mrchiledonut]

@@Jayrod64 That's fine. Use what works well, and sounds good to you. I'm just saying spatial audio/Atmos for headphones isn't the same as Atmos from a soundbar/receiver and USB doesn't handle what HDMI does.

[@kovrcek]

Question: if optical can carry DD+ how is it possible that it doesn't carry atmos (height) channels. Because DD+ is capable of carrying atmos, just not lossless.

[@B.D.B.]

Optical can't carry DD+, only the original DD, up to 7.1. It can't do lossless or object based formats.

[@kovrcek]

@@B.D.B. Weird, I hear some ppl on avforums/reddit have it working. But maybe they are just imagining things and in reality it is just plain dd. Can't test it myself unfortunately. Thanks anyway

[@MrNorcal81]

I use an Optical connection from my LG OLED C7 TV to my Denon AVR. The "good stuff", an Oppo-203, a Panasonic UB-9000 and a Roku Ultra are plugged directly into the Denon, assuring me of the best possible sound. For the most part, I don't need the AVR on when I watch TV (hmm.. cable news in 5.1.4 audio, yummy). When there's something on TV that needs better audio, my AVR has Dolby Surround, Neural:X and Auro 3D up-mixers. Any of them, but especially the latter two, do an excellent job of expanding a basic surround audio track and it's not exactly like I'm watching a 4K/UHD disc and need full room blockbuster sound so I'm good with using the Toslink cable.

[@trulsdirio]

So basically, if I want great stereo audio and decent surround I am pretty well off with digital optical.

[@Avril.Lavigne]

But as far as I know Optical doesn't carry surround.

[@BradOlsonBemidji]

@@Avril.Lavigne It does carry 5.1 DD and DTS surround.

[@cursedmonkey1033]

This was a big help. I've just got an Xbox and been trying to figure out how to get decent sound from it, not being impressed plugging my headphones in the controller (why do they do it that way?) and it not having optical like my PS4. I bought an Astro mixamp, so I'm using USB and that was better but still not great. Having seen this video I realized I could use the tvs optical, and now I also know what settings to use. This is invaluable because I don't know about any of this stuff and experimenting causes me anxiety so this video has been a huge help. Thank you.

[@jameswilliams5546]

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[@patrickdavid4137]

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[@dmme4424]

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@@preciouszara1796 Who made profits for you, am really looking for a pro who can manage my account and make

[@theinformant522]

This guy literally saved my sound bar. I thought it didn’t work. It was the tv settings for PCM

[@thewhitewolf58]

Seen these inputs everywhere and they always seemed so mysterious.

[@ash202r]

Very informative. I have ARC HDMI port in my TV, but never used it. Maybe I will use it now.

[@calculusentropy]

I've renovated my den, played around with vintage HiFi I had. Forgot so much like Digital Coax not as limited as Optical Toslink inputs. Never mind ARC and eARC. Surprising differences.

[@youknowme850]

Thank you so much for this video. Doubt cleared.

[@Techthusiasm]

I have a fairly premium 2.2 channel living room setup with my sources running through my TV and use optical back to the Anthem STR preamp. I'd love HDMI eARC for CEC volume control, but the STR doesn't have an HDMI in. Optical though is still great in this setup. Signals are all digital through to the STR, it's uncompressed as it is 2-channel, and it's easy to send the signal 40'+ from my TV to my STR.

[@jasonauric]

I built a movie room with 6.1 DTS - EX and I still get support from streaming feeds, 2023, but I set up mine to be more Blu ray based, and everyone who watches a movie, are impressed. I have a sub, and that 6th speaker gives a full surround sound fill. I been putting together movie rooms, for myself and friends, for over 20 years, and I use the optical toslink cables. I have had a few issues, but mostly user error. Yes, there's a little menu digging to get the full capabilities of my Blu ray player, amp and speaker set up. With Blu rays I never have to boost the center channel. And I kinda hate streaming. Oh well.

[@ricksmith7659]

I do the exact same. Love my Original Dolby Digital Marantz and Yamaha AV receivers 03-05 era. Pre Amp inputs are a must.

[@JimNortonsAlcoholism]

Caleb is the best explainer in the business

[@joanx9722]

Yes indeed, I really need to understand more about this and I appreciate all the help that I have been receiving..

[@uhtredthebold2]

My first soundbar had hdmi and optical but my TV at the time didn't have hdmi arc. I connected an optical cable for audio but also connected a hdmi cable so that I could take advantage of hdmi cec to control the volume from my TV remote.

[@NothingHereForYou]

I actually just got a soundbar as a gift and used optical to save me an HDMI port. Still helpful since I know nothing about sound. Tv remote function might make me still end up using hdmi

[@michaelrose7258]

Awesome explanation all this time I haven't had it set up correctly as I was never told, brilliant can't wait to hear the difference. Thank you so much

[@DrCelticHart]

I must say I use digital optical into my pioneer receiver as it allegedly has passive HDMI pass through so theoretically you should be able to still use the HDMI source without the receiver powered on it's never actually worked though and sometimes I'd rather just use the TV speakers. Digital optical though the TV will revert to the internal speakers when the amp is off.

[@emmanuelmeyermeyer1083]

Very informative and to the point. Good audio and clear voice. Great job.

[@EricChiEric]

3:27 DTS-X is dts's compeditor to dolby atmos, and also uses the object based audio, and the dts equivaled to dolby true hd is dts master audio

[@timothylowe8327]

Digital optical from dumb tv into Cambridge audio dacmagic 100 into Tube amp 2 floor standing klipsch speakers. Beautiful soundstage no gimmicky surround boxes and cables all over my house. Thinking about getting a subwoofer though 🤔

[@snoberto]

Bought a second hand DVD player with 5.1 for £45 and use optical with my oled, I love it, mainly that I got an absolute bargain.

[@gerardobustos3389]

Congratulacion from CHILE felicitaciones 🎉❤

[@adamos9879]

Key is quality of optical toslink cable used. I use a very good quality optical as an option from the Oppo UDP 205 player into a Devialet Expert Pro 220, sending the stream in LPCM192. For movies this is essentially converting multichannel to stereo signal and for CDs just straight stereo end to end. The sound quality is exceptional, everythingvone would expect from a very good sound system. Again key is the quality of ghe toslink optical cable used

[@harbourdogNL]

This isi perhaps the geekiest tech-nerd video I have ever seen. Not a criticism, just an observation. Can I hear what I'm watching? Yes. Good enough for me.

[@usasupra23]

Great video! I’ve been using optical for 16 years thinking it was better than any HDMi!!!!!! Guess I need to switch to Arc and turn on CEC???

[@Avril.Lavigne]

I still find the Optical best on my Soundbar. Tell me if you changed your mind

[@usasupra23]

@@Avril.Lavigne haven’t tinkered with it anymore yet

[@Avril.Lavigne]

@@usasupra23 kay.. 😉👍