Difference between analog audio vs. digital

[LuckyMF]

What's the difference between analog audio using twin rca cables vs. an fiber optic cable other than the decoding? Does it effect the signal strength from DVD to receiver? If I were to listen in stereo mode or pro logic on the digital line, would it sound any different than the rca lines?

The current setup is rca lines. It is difficult to get good cables here... third world country. There is a crackling sound when the volume is turned up relatively low. This crackling does not exist when the dvd is hooked up to an older carver receiver. Is there any explanation?

[David Meek]

Hi Lucky, welcome to The Guide. :welcome:

The single largest difference is that when you use the two RCA cables you are processing the signal using the DACs (digital-to-analog-converter) inside the CD/DVD player as opposed to using a single fiber-optic or digital-coax cable which processes the signal using the DACs inside the receiver/pre-pro. If there is a discernable difference, then go with the configuration you prefer. Unless you are dealing with a horrendously long cable, signal strength won't be an issue, if all the components are healthy.

I believe any ProLogic or other sound-field processing is done downstream of the DAC conversion - but I could be mistaken on that point.

On getting cables, send a PM (private message - look at the upper right corner of the web-page) to username Lex. He's the owner of this site and also has a cable company that puts out very good-quality-for-the dollar cables and ships them all over the world. Click on the CATCables icon at the bottom of the web-page.

Crackling could be a loose connection in the jack on the receiver, or possibly in the volume control.

I hope I answered your questions. . . .

[LuckyMF]

Crackling could be a loose connection in the jack on the receiver, or possibly in the volume control.

Thanks. If it was volume control, the crackling would be transitory as the volume were being adjusted, wouldn't it? But the crackling would stop once the volume knob stopped moving? I don't know the answer. I'm just trying to narrow down the possibilities.