If your TV has an optical audio output and your speakers or amplifier use RCA or 3.5mm inputs, an optical DAC can bridge the two. The key is matching the converter’s output to your equipment and setting the TV to PCM or stereo audio. These five options cover both RCA and 3.5mm connections, with important differences in device compatibility, included cables, and power requirements.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Analog output | Standout feature | Important setup note |
|---|---|---|---|
| PROZOR 192KHz Optical-to-RCA Converter | RCA | Built-in audio amplifier chip and attached RCA cable | Set the TV to PCM; use a 5V power adapter |
| AUTOUTLET 192kHz Optical-to-RCA DAC | RCA | Built-in amplifier chip | PCM only; volume is adjusted on the connected audio device |
| QIMIAOUS Optical-to-3.5mm Converter | 3.5mm AUX | Compact option for compatible TVs and AUX speakers | TV use only; set audio to PCM or stereo |
| ESWN DNXB Optical-to-3.5mm Converter | 3.5mm AUX | Includes optical and detachable 3.5mm cables | Requires a 5V, 1A USB power adapter |
| eSynic 192kHz Optical-to-RCA Adapter | RCA | Aluminum housing and extended cable | PCM stereo only; USB power adapter is not included |
Our Picks: Best Optical Dacs For Tv To Speakers reviews
1. PROZOR: Optical-to-RCA with a Built-In Amplifier Chip
The PROZOR converts a TV’s digital optical audio signal into stereo analog audio through RCA connectors. Its built-in audio amplifier chip is intended to help provide a stronger RCA output, which may be useful when connecting a TV to an amplifier or speakers that have RCA inputs.
The converter supports PCM audio and lists sampling rates up to 192kHz. It also has a built-in RCA cable, so you do not need a separate RCA lead for that connection. The unit needs USB power; PROZOR recommends a certified 5V, 1A adapter for stable operation.
This is a practical fit if you want a straightforward optical-to-RCA connection and prefer an attached cable. The main limitations are its PCM-only stereo support and the fact that TV remote volume control may not work through optical output. Check your TV’s audio settings and plan to adjust volume through the TV’s settings or your connected audio equipment.
Pros:
- Converts optical audio to stereo RCA
- Built-in amplifier chip is designed to address low RCA output
- Supports PCM input up to 192kHz
- Built-in RCA cable reduces the need for another cable
Cons:
- Does not support Dolby AC3 or other 5.1-channel signals
- Requires USB power, and optical volume control may be unavailable
Verdict: Choose the PROZOR if you need RCA output and value an attached cable and built-in amplifier chip, provided your TV can output PCM stereo.
2. AUTOUTLET: Optical-to-RCA Conversion with Amplifier Chip
The AUTOUTLET DAC turns an optical SPDIF signal into analog RCA audio for a stereo amplifier or compatible speakers. Its description lists a built-in audio amplifier chip and dual-channel operational amplifier, features intended to help with RCA output level and sound clarity.
It supports up to 24-bit, 192kHz input and is described as compatible with HDTVs, set-top boxes, disc players, and game consoles that provide optical audio. That compatibility depends on the connected device sending PCM stereo; the converter does not support 5.1-channel Dolby AC3 audio.
One point to consider is volume control. The listing says the TV remote does not adjust the converter’s output, so you should expect to control volume on the connected speakers or amplifier. Compared with the PROZOR, this is another RCA-focused option with an amplifier chip, but the PROZOR specifically describes a built-in RCA cable.
Pros:
- RCA output for stereo amplifiers and compatible speakers
- Built-in amplifier chip and dual-channel operational amplifier
- Supports PCM sampling rates up to 192kHz
- Listed for use with TVs and several other optical-output devices
Cons:
- Does not support 5.1-channel Dolby AC3 signals
- Volume must be controlled on the output device, not the TV remote
Verdict: The AUTOUTLET is a sensible choice for a PCM-capable TV or other listed source when you need RCA output and can control volume from your audio equipment.
3. QIMIAOUS: Optical-to-3.5mm AUX for Compatible TVs
The QIMIAOUS converter changes optical digital audio into a stereo 3.5mm AUX signal. That output makes it a better match for speakers or headphones with a 3.5mm input than for a stereo system that only accepts RCA plugs.
The listing states support for sampling rates up to 192kHz and 24-bit input, and requires USB power during use. It also limits compatibility to TV audio output and specifically excludes game consoles and other devices. This narrower use case matters if you plan to switch between a TV and another source.
As with the RCA models, your TV must send PCM or stereo audio; Dolby AC3 and DTS 5.1 signals are not supported. The listing also says volume cannot be controlled with the TV remote while using the converter. Compared with the ESWN DNXB, this option is also for 3.5mm output, but the ESWN includes an optical cable and a detachable 3.5mm cable.
Pros:
- Provides 3.5mm AUX output for compatible speakers or headphones
- Supports optical input rates up to 192kHz
- USB-powered design needs no driver installation
- Useful when your TV and audio device both support the required connection
Cons:
- Listed for TV use only, not game consoles or other devices
- Does not support Dolby AC3 or DTS 5.1 audio
Verdict: Pick the QIMIAOUS if your TV is the source and your speakers or headphones use 3.5mm AUX, but look elsewhere if you need broader device compatibility.
4. ESWN DNXB: 3.5mm Output with Included Cables
The ESWN DNXB converts a TV’s optical audio output to a 3.5mm analog connection. The listing includes an optical cable and a detachable 3.5mm cable, which can simplify connecting the converter to compatible speakers or headphones.
It supports PCM or LPCM stereo audio at listed sampling rates up to 192kHz. The DAC also needs USB power from a 5V, 1A adapter. The listing describes it as a TV-focused converter, so it is not the best fit if you need to connect other source devices.
Like the QIMIAOUS, this model is for an AUX connection rather than RCA. Its included cables may make setup more convenient, but the core limitations remain: no 5.1-channel audio and no TV-remote volume adjustment through the converter. Check that your audio device has a 3.5mm input before choosing it.
Pros:
- Converts optical TV audio to 3.5mm AUX
- Includes optical and detachable 3.5mm cables
- Supports PCM or LPCM input up to 192kHz
- Compact design is intended to fit into a small setup
Cons:
- Requires a separate 5V, 1A USB power adapter
- Not compatible with 5.1-channel signals and may not support TV-remote volume control
Verdict: The ESWN DNXB is a convenient option if you need 3.5mm output and want the optical and AUX cables included, as long as your TV outputs PCM stereo.
5. eSynic: Aluminum Optical-to-RCA Adapter with Extended Cable
The eSynic is an optical-to-RCA converter for connecting a digital TV output to a stereo amplifier or speakers with RCA inputs. It supports PCM stereo at up to 24-bit/192kHz and is designed for one-way conversion from optical to RCA.
Its listed construction features include an aluminum housing and gold-plated RCA ports. The product description also highlights an extended cable for reaching behind a TV. It requires 5V USB power, but the adapter is not included, so you will need a suitable power source.
Compared with the PROZOR and AUTOUTLET, the eSynic also targets RCA systems but calls out its aluminum housing and extended cable. It still shares the same key format limits: it does not decode Dolby or DTS 5.1 audio, and volume should be adjusted on the speakers or amplifier rather than the TV remote.
Pros:
- RCA output for stereo amplifiers and compatible speakers
- Aluminum housing and gold-plated RCA ports
- Extended cable is intended to help with TV placement
- Supports PCM stereo up to 24-bit/192kHz
Cons:
- USB power adapter is not included
- Does not support Dolby or DTS 5.1 audio
Verdict: Choose the eSynic if you want an RCA converter with an aluminum housing and an extended cable, and you already have a suitable USB power adapter.
How to Choose an Optical DAC for Your TV and Speakers
Match the converter output to your speakers
Check the inputs on your speakers, amplifier, or receiver before buying. RCA converters such as the PROZOR, AUTOUTLET, and eSynic are intended for left and right RCA connections. The QIMIAOUS and ESWN DNXB provide 3.5mm AUX output. These connection types are not interchangeable without the right cable or adapter, so choose the output that matches your equipment.
Confirm that your TV can output PCM stereo
All five products require a compatible two-channel audio signal. Their descriptions warn against Dolby AC3 or other 5.1-channel formats; the 3.5mm options also specify PCM or stereo mode. In your TV’s sound settings, look for digital audio output and select PCM or LPCM if available. A converter cannot turn an unsupported surround format into a supported one on its own.
Consider where you will adjust volume
Optical output often does not let the TV remote control the volume sent to a DAC. The product descriptions warn that you may need to adjust volume through the TV’s audio settings or with the connected speakers or amplifier. If easy remote control matters, check your TV and audio equipment manuals to confirm how volume behaves with optical output before buying.
Check the power and cable requirements
These converters need USB power to operate. Some listings recommend a 5V, 1A adapter, while the eSynic listing says its adapter is not included. Cable arrangements differ too: the PROZOR has a built-in RCA cable, and the ESWN DNXB listing includes optical and detachable 3.5mm cables. Check what comes with the model you choose and whether it will reach between your TV and audio equipment.
Think about where else you may use the DAC
Some converters are described for use with several optical-output devices, while the QIMIAOUS and ESWN DNXB listings focus on TV use. If you want to connect a game console or another source, confirm that the model supports that device and its audio format. Also, these products convert optical digital audio to analog output; they do not work in reverse.
Understand what the sampling-rate figure means
Several products list support up to 192kHz and 24-bit audio. That specification describes supported input formats, not a guarantee that you will hear a clear improvement with every TV, speaker, or program. For a successful setup, connector type, PCM compatibility, power, and volume control are usually the more important checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an optical DAC do?
An optical DAC converts digital audio from a TV’s optical output into analog sound for compatible equipment. Depending on the model, that analog connection may be RCA or 3.5mm AUX.
Do I need to set my TV to PCM?
Yes, these products specify PCM, LPCM, or stereo output. They do not support 5.1-channel formats such as Dolby AC3, and some also list DTS as unsupported. Look for a digital audio output setting in your TV’s sound menu.
Can I control the volume with my TV remote?
Not always. The product descriptions warn that the TV remote may not adjust optical output volume. You may need to change the TV’s audio settings or use the controls on your speakers, amplifier, or headphones.
Can I use an optical DAC with headphones?
The QIMIAOUS and ESWN DNXB provide 3.5mm output and list headphones as a possible connection. The AUTOUTLET description says it does not support headphones. Check the specific product details and your headphones’ connection before buying.
Do these converters work with surround sound?
No. The listed models require two-channel PCM or stereo audio and do not support the stated 5.1-channel formats. Set your TV or source device to PCM stereo for the intended use.
Does an optical DAC need its own power?
Yes. The models in this guide require USB power. Some recommend a 5V, 1A adapter, and the eSynic listing notes that its adapter is not included. Check the product details for the power supply you will need.
How do I choose between RCA and 3.5mm?
Choose based on the input on your speakers or amplifier. Use an RCA-output DAC for equipment with left and right RCA inputs, or a 3.5mm-output DAC for equipment with an AUX input. Confirm the connector before ordering.
Final Recommendation
For an RCA-based stereo system, the PROZOR is a strong all-around pick from this group because it combines RCA output, a built-in amplifier chip, and an attached RCA cable. The AUTOUTLET and eSynic are other RCA options, with the eSynic highlighting its aluminum housing and extended cable. If your speakers use 3.5mm AUX, consider the ESWN DNXB for its included cables or the QIMIAOUS for a TV-focused setup. Whichever you choose, confirm the connection, use PCM stereo, and plan for USB power and volume control outside the TV remote if needed.