GTV-DIGAUD-2-AAUD - Gefen Digital Audio to Analog Converter

Do you have an audio source with only digital audio output but an analog audio device?

If you have a home theater setup you are probably familiar with the differences between analog and digital audio and video. Digital, more and more, is becoming the de factor standard. That does not mean, however, that analog has gone the way of the dinosaur - in fact, there is still a debate on whether digital or analog is a better medium for transmission of media.

If you have a receiver or other device that only outputs digital you may be out of luck - there are a lot of speakers that only accept analog audio. If you're in this situation have no fear, there is a simple solution for converting a digital audio signal to analog - the Gefen GTV-DIGAUD-2-AAUD.

High Quality

This is part of Gefen's consumer line, GefenTV. This is a mid-to-high end line designed for home theater enthusiasts who don't want to break the bank on decent home theater equipment. I have tested the GTV-DIGAUD-2-AAUD myself and currently use it in my home theater.

I like the adapter because it feels well made - it is sturdy but surprisingly small (the picture doesn't do it justice). I also like the fact that it doesn't run to hot - this was a concern initially as I have it tucked into the back of my home theater system.

Audio Source

The GTV-DIGAUD-2-AAUD supports either Toslink or S/PDIF. It converts the digital signal to left and right audio, preserving any balance when possible so you will hear movies as they were intended to be heard. Installation couldn't be simpler (just plug in your cables and you're ready to go!).

Advantages of DAC

Digital Audio Conversion is nice because it is easy to do and relatively inexpensive - if you want the highest possible level of audio quality you are better off upgrading your equipment to all-digital. These two options aren't even comparable - for a high end system you will be looking at putting in several thousand dollars - even on the budget end this will cost a few hundred dollars.