[srb]

I am a bit behind the curve on these digital stuff, I perfer analog, and I only use one input for my digital equipment. Why would you need four digital inputs? Do they all sound differently good, or one sounds better than the others? If so, then you would only listen to that one best input all the time, right?

As far as a coaxial or optical S/PDIF sounding better than the other, some feel that the optical interface adds another layer of conversion (electrical to optical and back to electrical).  Some components provide both types of digital outputs, and one could compare and see if one is superior to other for that particular component, while others may offer only one type of output.
 
The number of digital inputs needed will vary.  In rez's case, he has two sources, a CD player and an Apple Airport Express to wirelessly stream music from a computer.  The Airport Express has only an optical output.
 
Other devices that someone might want to connect would be a TV, a cable box, a video game console or an HD/Internet radio tuner.  The component would need to have the ability to choose a stereo digital audio output setting, as most external audio DACs cannot decode multi-channel digital audio.
 
Steve

[Wayner]

More digital inputs were added because there are more digital devices. Some of those devices have optical connections only (like my Sony XA20ES CD player). There are other folks that have squeeze boxes or are running computers thru USB to coax converters that wish to run their computer files thru a DAC. Now this can be done with a flick of a selector switch.

Wayner

[rcag_ils]

The number of digital inputs needed will vary.  In rez's case, he has two sources, a CD player and an Apple Airport Express to wirelessly stream music from a computer.  The Airport Express has only an optical output.
 
Other devices that someone might want to connect would be a TV, a cable box, a video game console or an HD/Internet radio tuner.  The component would need to have the ability to choose a stereo digital audio output setting, as most external audio DACs cannot decode multi-channel digital audio.

No wonder why I only need one input. Personally I wouldn't want too many input source devices to clutter up my system. When I watch video (rarely have time for), I don't need that "you are there" effect.

[RileyD]

Here is another option if you need multiple digital inputs.  Plus, it's made in the USA.
http://www.audioauthority.com/product_details/1177A/Switcher/5/1

[srb]

Here is another option if you need multiple digital inputs.  Plus, it's made in the USA.
http://www.audioauthority.com/product_details/1177A/Switcher/5/1

I have no idea which is 'better', but the $129 Inday DA4X also has remote control and is Made in USA as well.  The Audio Authority, with it's Auto Select input feature, may require manual overide input selection anyway, if you don't stop playback of the previous source.
 
Steve

[Wayner]

I have the Inday switcher I got from a great friend who didn't use it anymore. I use it to switch digital inputs on my Tascam CD recorder to route either CDs or computer files via a Digitalink USB to S/PDIF or Toslink converter box. Works great. Thanks Henry (OITP).

Wayner

[rez]

Not sure whether this is the best spot to update my search for a suitable Optical Toslink to Coaxial (RCA) Digital Audio Converter but wanted to make sure that I considered as many viable options as possible before making a choice.  I've also looked at a single channel optical in/coax out converter at monoprice that seems like it might do the job.  Anyone else have thoughts?  Thanks.
Roman

[ArthurDent]

rez -   fwiw I've had 2 of the Inday DA4X switchers for 3 years now, based on a friend's good experience and note in one of Frank's posts. I have to use the optical (Toslink) out on my old Sony changers to get the digital output and by-pass the less than stellar built-in aged DAC of the units. One couples to an Insight DAC, the other an Ultra DAC, both worlds of difference from the factory units.

As to the need for 4 inputs, all will depend on what you are looking to accomplish, and as Wayner notes, how many units are involved that need conversion to coax. In my case I do use a 2nd input with one of my DVD players in the HT setup. Haven't had any issues with either unit, the remote control is a nice feature, the folks are located down the road in Oregon, and have great customer service. And you can order with either a green or blue light ! How can you beat that ? 

Anyway, just wanted to note that in my experience they have been reliable units, seem fairly priced, and the folks are nice to deal with. Good luck in your search