S/PDIF Cables

S/PDIF cables are digital audio cables used to transmit a digital audio signal between source components such as CD players, streamers, televisions or media players and a DAC or AV receiver. Rather than carrying an analogue waveform, S/PDIF cables send a digital bitstream that is converted to analogue audio by the receiving device. They are commonly used in hi-fi and home theatre systems where a stable, noise-resistant digital connection is required.

S/PDIF Digital Audio Cables for Coaxial Connections

S/PDIF connections are most commonly implemented using coaxial cables with RCA or BNC connectors, designed to maintain a consistent 75-ohm impedance for accurate digital signal transmission. Unlike analogue interconnects, S/PDIF cables are optimised to preserve timing and data integrity rather than audio frequency response. Although they may use similar connectors, S/PDIF cables differ fundamentally from analogue RCA cables, as they carry digital data rather than an analogue audio signal.

In an audio system, S/PDIF cables connect a digital source directly to a DAC or digital input on an amplifier or AV receiver, where the digital signal is decoded and converted to analogue audio. Because the signal remains digital until conversion, S/PDIF cables are not interchangeable with analogue RCA cables and should be selected specifically for digital audio use. S/PDIF cables are typically used in conjunction with a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) or an amplifier with a built-in digital input.

11 products