SPDIF is an acronym for Sony
Philips Digital Interface and is a CD "Red Book" standard digital audio transfer
file format. A SPDIF interface can transport either stereo left-and-right
channel information or multi-channel sound. It is typically found on audio and
a/v equipment such as CD transports, Laser Disc players, DVD players, some
digital satellite products and computer sound cards where it is implemented
using an RCA connector. A SPDIF interface is a 75-ohm connection, identical to
composite video in specification. Years ago many audiophiles felt that SPDIF
offered better sound than the TOSLINK interface discussed previously.
Improvements in TOSLINK conductors have closed this performance gap and made
concern over the interface a moot point.
