What's the deal with these USB -> Coax converters? Am I retarded?

[luvdunhill]

I2S can be problematic over anything other than short distances. Not saying it can't be done, but it is usually trickier than you first suspect. Nevertheless, it would bypass the limitations of that "defective protocol".

I may have some small boards for the LVDS pair at some point.

[HDen]

That basically covers it but Toslink has its own problems but not the more advanced optical systems. I for one just use a transformer coupled BNC system with a true 75ohm coax.

Could you go into that line a bit more please?

[Nebby]

I may have some small boards for the LVDS pair at some point.

My goodness, is there anything you don't tinker around with?

[Currawong]

Toslink is a shit connector for starters. The ST connector, which you can find on older DACs and has a BNC-like locking connector, was much better. Of course, like with RCA plugs, manufacturers chose whatever was simpler and cheaper.

[Nebby]

I can understand the move away from the ST connectors...they're not cheap (speaking from having to fix or help fix a couple of fiber runs).

[HDen]

So basically the best connector is the BNC(75ohms), and the toslink is not good at all?

I thought toslink optical was one of the best option for computer audio

[Grahame]

Toslink provides galvanic isolation. BNC (75ohms) provides best signal propagation. Better yet check if the BNC connection is transformer coupled to provide ground isolation.

[luvdunhill]

Toslink provides galvanic isolation. BNC (75ohms) provides best signal propagation. Better yet check if the BNC connection is transformer coupled to provide ground isolation.

Well, close.. "BNC" as you say, with transformers is galvanic as well, not sure what ground isolation means...

[Grahame]

Well, close.. "BNC" as you say, with transformers is galvanic as well, not sure what ground isolation means...

Q. Can digital audio cables cause ground loops?

[luvdunhill]

Q. Can digital audio cables cause ground loops?

That article admits that most coaxial lines are incorrectly setup, but that doesn't change the fact that when things are done right it is galvanic just like toslink... Another artcle that does nothing more than confuse the issue, IMHO