Toslink VS. Coax For Transport to DAC


I hear differing opionions on this subject. I.E. Toslink is more liquid sounding while Coax is better focused. What is your opinion?
soundwatts5b9e

Showing 1 response by albertporter

The coax is going to be superior bandwidth, and therefore show more detail. The quality of the coax, the measured impedance, plug construction and assembly quality will all play a role in the sound. There is less difference in the Toslink versions, so experimentation among the various coax cables will be necessary before you can really say you have heard the comparison. As stated in many other posts on this site, the Belden 8281 precision video cable makes an incredible digital coax. It is a true 75 ohms, and is about a dollar a foot. The only way to keep the signal a true 75 ohms at the termination (connector) is to use BNC. Unfortunately, most home audio gear uses RCA for this connection. Pick a good OFC connector, make up a set and give it a try. We are talking very little money here for this test, and I think this version will make you happy.