Media players with optical output

Optical output

— digital audio output via TOSLINK fibre optic cable; bandwidth allows even a multi-channel audio signal to be transmitted through a single connector.

Such an interface is intended mainly for connecting high-end audio equipment — for example, an external Hi-Fi class audio system or a home theater. Both a full-sized TOSLINK and its miniature version, identical in shape to a 3.5 mm mini-Jack, can be used as a connector.

Note that the coaxial output provides similar features (see the relevant paragraph); in fact, the coaxial and optical interfaces are two varieties of the same S/P-DIF audio standard. However, fibre optic cable is completely immune to electromagnetic interference; on the other hand, it does not tolerate strong pressure and bending, which requires careful handling.