SPDIF Guide

SPDIF is a standard for transmitting high-quality  digital audio without going through an analogue conversion process.  It is used for connecting Hi-FI Equipment, DVD players, CD players,  Mini-Disc Players, Sound cards etc.

The SPDIF interface can be implemented in two  different ways: coaxial and optical

Coaxial
This interface uses RCA phono connectors and 75 ohm coaxial cable

Optical
This interface uses fibre optic cable and is  available with two types of connectors - TosLink and Mini Optical

TosLink A rectangular  connector                   Mini-optical  A 3.5mm jack connector

Mini-optical connectors are sometimes called  Mini-Toslink, MiniPlug or Mini Optical jacks, but they all refer to  the same connector, as pictured above!

The mini-optical connector is typically used on  portable CD and MD players, but it is also used on other audio  devices. The TosLink connector is commonly used on DVD and CD  players, DAT recorders, surround sound receivers etc.