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Optical Audio Quality?

post #1 of 4
Thread Starter 
I'm looking for input on "optical" audio. I'm considering the Oppo DV-980H to replace my current DVD. I notice that this unit has great audio features to compliment the video offerings but...I am also concerned that it offers only coaxial or optical analog outs and I have no experience with the quality of either. The other outs are 7.1 audio outs which I wouldn't use.
I'm connecting to a Yamaha RX-V2600 and have always used the standard RCA style connectors with Monster connections. My system is an AUDIO system first. A clear picture is a requirement but without the sound I'd rather watch a TV (currently enjoying 150" panasonic picture).
Thanks,
post #2 of 4
You will not get optical output from SACDs or DVD-As.
post #3 of 4
For those formats that can be carried via S/PDIF (PCM, Dolby, DTS, etc), the quality will be identical regardless of whether you use optical or coaxial. Coax is (for me) typically easier to work with, but optical will work just as well. RCA is just the connector, and you'll notice that the "coaxial out" probably uses RCA jacks. Incidentally, S/PDIF in both its electrical (coaxial) and optical variants is a digital protocol.

As mentioned, SACD and DVD-A won't do multi-channel output via S/PDIF due to copy protection concerns. You'll need to use multi-channel analog if you intend to play either of these formats.
post #4 of 4
If you have a receiver that accepts MCh PCM over HDMI, you can use HDMI for SACD, DVD-A, as well as any other format. If the receiver is HDMI 1.2 complaint you can also send DSD from the 980H using HDMI.
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