Best way to pass audio on computer to HT receiver? (1 Viewer)

[Mark Fitzsimmons]

I'm curious what the best way is to pass the audio being played on a computer, say from a CD or DVD for example to a receiver. You can always get an adapter to plug standard RCA cables into the microjacks on soundcards but I've also seen devices that plug into USB ports that pass the audio directly to a reciever without any tampering by a sound card. Wouldn't this be the best way?

 

[Ted Lee]

i assume you have a sound-card of some sort? i've always felt that a line-level output from the card (probably using a mini --> rca cable) is the best way.

i'm a big fan of line-level connections because you don't have to worry about adjusting the sound from the source.

 

[StephenL]

I've read about problems with USB audio devices. I'm using a soundcard with SPDIF output to my receiver via Toslink connection.

 

[Brett_H]

Mark,

I've tried this two ways, and here's my results:
Analog output using a mini jack and a long extension cable

Digital out using a coax cable

Both of my experiences might be different than yours because in each case my PC and my receiver were pretty far (> 30 ft) apart. If your PC supports it and distance will allow it, it seems a toslink digital connection might be the way to go.

-Brett.