Using motherboard's optical out vs. USB

[JFraser]

Hi all,

 

I just built myself a simple HTPC; parts list: https://uk.pcpartpicker.com/user/FraserJ90/saved/#view=bbBp99

 

I was wondering if it's better to use the optical out on the motherboard instead of USB to connect to a DAC/Receiver?

 

Thanks in advance for your repsonses,

Jack

[goldsdad]

Hi,

 

You'll possibly get a bunch of reasons why one can be technically superior to the other, but the only way to know which is better for you (not other people who aren't even in the room with your system) is to try both.

[mansr]

I was wondering if it's better to use the optical out on the motherboard instead of USB to connect to a DAC/Receiver?

 

To some extent it depends on the DAC/receiver and what you'll be playing.

 

Advantages of USB:

- Asynchronous transfer (if supported by DAC) eliminates clock jitter.

- Supports very high sample rates.

- Can support DSD.

 

Disadvantages of USB:

- May need non-standard drivers.

- May carry electrical noise.

 

Advantages of optical S/PDIF:

- Electrical isolation avoids noise and ground loops.

- Compatible with most AVRs.

 

Disadvantages of S/PDIF:

- Limited sample rate.

- Multichannel only with lossy AC3/DTS.

- High clock jitter.

 

If you're connecting to an AVR, you could also use HDMI.

 

As someone else already said, you should really try all practical options and evaluate for yourself.