Question on SPDIF

Eomer of Aldburg

Senior member
Jan 15, 2006
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currently I have my HDTV output using a RCA to 3.5mm input on my audigy 2 ZS. Does my Audigy 2 ZS have a SPDIF input, I know it has an output? Guru3d Says that does so could I use my HDTV's SPDIF output and connect it into my audigy 2ZS? If so, is the sound quality better than my RCA to 3.5 input?
 

Seekermeister

Golden Member
Oct 3, 2006
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I've not used SPDIF, so I can't comment on it. But, if you have the Platinum version, there are both in and out jacks on the drive bay.
 

Kelnoen

Senior member
Sep 20, 2006
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I've used it but can't say I've ever noticed a difference, mainly just makes 5.1 easier.
as long as you have a good cable for the RCA - 3.5 there should be little difference.
 

Auric

Diamond Member
Oct 11, 1999
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The Audigy does have SPDIF I/O other than the mini-RCA jack output by way of pins on the card itself. Electrical can be connected directly while optical requires additional electronics. The easiest way to achieve either or both is a common audio bracket/module included with many mainboards since they are cheap and include the necessary jacks, wiring and plugs. The pins simply have to be rearranged in the plug to match the Audigy pin headers. The pin functions for the module can be had from the mobo manufacturer while those of the Audigy can easily be found via google or at driverheaven forum.
 

Eomer of Aldburg

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Jan 15, 2006
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wow Auric, quite the response. I would never thought I'd see a response to my own question thats so technical that even myself is somewhat lost on what you mean, Massive props :D I think I understand what you mean but for all that effort I really don't think its worth it cause Kelnoen stated that hes never noticed a difference, unless you say other wise.
 

Kelnoen

Senior member
Sep 20, 2006
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Originally posted by: Eomer of Aldburg
wow Auric, quite the response. I would never thought I'd see a response to my own question thats so technical that even myself is somewhat lost on what you mean, Massive props :D I think I understand what you mean but for all that effort I really don't think its worth it cause Kelnoen stated that hes never noticed a difference, unless you say other wise.

The big question is what sound system you'll be running it through?

If you going to some standard PC speakers or some medium/high quality large multimedia speakers (eg logitech) then there will not be too much point.

If you are a crazy SOB running it through a few grands worth of speakers it might be an option.
 

Eomer of Aldburg

Senior member
Jan 15, 2006
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Originally posted by: Kelnoen
Originally posted by: Eomer of Aldburg
wow Auric, quite the response. I would never thought I'd see a response to my own question thats so technical that even myself is somewhat lost on what you mean, Massive props :D I think I understand what you mean but for all that effort I really don't think its worth it cause Kelnoen stated that hes never noticed a difference, unless you say other wise.

The big question is what sound system you'll be running it through?

If you going to some standard PC speakers or some medium/high quality large multimedia speakers (eg logitech) then there will not be too much point.

If you are a crazy SOB running it through a few grands worth of speakers it might be an option.


ah thanks for the clarifications. I have medium quality logitech speakers so I'll stay with how its configured.
 

Auric

Diamond Member
Oct 11, 1999
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Hehe, I thought my response was rather simple.

Oh well, another big question is what is the source? If it is more than 2ch then a digital input should definitely be worth it for the content alone. If it is just 2ch then it hinges more upon quality. The analog line-in is bound to be noisy in comparison.

Test it out by disconnecting the input from TV and muting all the other analog input sources (should be anyway if not in use) and turn up the volume 'till you hear noise. Mute the line-in and notice a reduction in noise with the remaining being introduced by the Logitech amplifier (or alternatively eliminate that by connecting headphones directly to the Audigy). Lower the volume and reconnect the input from TV and repeat to hear if additional noise is added. The difference between unmuted and muted should mostly coincide with the difference between analog and digital, given a clean signal and no interference.