How does a miniplug to toslink adaptor work???

Tonto Yoder · « **on:** 11 Apr 2005, 09:04 pm »

Got a new computer (with Brad's advice) with internal speakers, but with a minijack on the back for external audio connection. Right now I'm using the typical miniplug to miniplug cable to connect to some powered computer speakers, but supposedly I can use a fiber optic digital cable if it has a miniplug connector.

How's that work??? All the optical cables I've had before were strictly toslink. (I ended up buying a discontinued adapter from Radio Shack: toslink jack to miniplug).

Brad · « **Reply #1 on:** 11 Apr 2005, 09:12 pm »

I think Apple is using the same connector on the iMac G5 that they use on the Airport Express.

They are selling a 'connection kit' for the AE that includes the mini-Toslink cable. I'm sure that cable is available elsewhere for less money though.

There was a post here a while back by audioengr who had taken an AE apart, discussing the dual function of the port.

audioengr · « **Reply #2 on:** 12 Apr 2005, 12:38 am »

There is an adapter that you can use that brings-out the Toslink connector so you can use standard cables. I have a mess of them. Send me a postage-paid return envelope and I will send you one.

Tonto Yoder · « **Reply #3 on:** 12 Apr 2005, 11:03 pm »

Thanks Steve!!!

It WILL be cryogenically treated and have Bybees inside?????

John Ashman · « **Reply #4 on:** 13 Apr 2005, 02:45 am »

Is there a "breakout" cable that allows you to hook up analog and optical simultaneously? That would be a tricky adaptor to make, I suppose.

audioengr · « **Reply #5 on:** 14 Apr 2005, 03:43 am »

Quote from: John Ashman

Is there a "breakout" cable that allows you to hook up analog and optical simultaneously? That would be a tricky adaptor to make, I suppose.

It would have to be designed and added. It requires two separate drivers.

Tonto Yoder · « **Reply #6 on:** 15 Apr 2005, 01:52 pm »

Quote from: Brad

They are selling a 'connection kit' for the AE that includes the mini-Toslink cable. I'm sure that cable is available elsewhere for less money though.

Their kit is $39 and seems to be by Monster Cable. It includes two options:
a cable for the optical connection AND a cable with mini-plug to RCA's.
Essentially, one is paying for one cable he won't use, so it might be better to decide between Toslink and RCA and devote $$ to just THAT cable.

John Ashman · « **Reply #7 on:** 15 Apr 2005, 02:57 pm »

The optical cable for this is about a $10 cable at most.

jholtz · « **Reply #8 on:** 28 Apr 2005, 02:00 am »

I happened to read your post and wondered if this is an optical to RCA convertor? I'd love to buy one of those that wouldn't destroy the sound.

Thanks!

Jim

Quote from: audioengr

There is an adapter that you can use that brings-out the Toslink connector so you can use standard cables. I have a mess of them. Send me a postage-paid return envelope and I will send you one.