Optical USB Input
Optical USB Input counts built-in USB audio inputs that accept optical fibre, directly or through an optical module.
One explicitly named input counts as one. If the documentation does not say, the count is unknown.
Optical USB Input — DAC
On a DAC (digital-to-analogue converter), this connection receives audio from a compatible source. Fibre removes the conductive connection along that link, blocking that path for electrical noise. Other system connections may still carry noise.
An optical USB cable plugged into a normal USB socket does not count. Neither does internal isolation behind an electrical USB socket, nor a TOSLINK or ST optical S/PDIF input: those carry a different signal.
Match the source and DAC, specified fibre and optical modules, and supported audio formats. Follow the manuals for source output and DAC input settings. More inputs provide more connection options, not proof of better sound.
Sources
- RS130–RD160 SFP Connection Guide — HiFi ROSE
- USB 3.Optical Cables — Corning
- Hugo TT 2 User Manual V1.9.2 — Chord Electronics
- Breaking Ground Loops with Functional Isolation to Reduce Data Transmission Errors — Analog Devices
- Digital Inputs DAC-50 — Accuphase