ST Optical Output
The number of ST-type glass-fibre optical digital-audio outputs.
ST identifies an optical connector format distinct from TOSLINK. A proprietary link using ST connectors and a fibre Ethernet port are different connection types, even though each uses light to carry data.
ST Optical Output — CD Transport
On a CD Transport, an ST optical output sends supported digital audio to a DAC with a compatible input. The connection provides an optical route from the transport rather than a coaxial electrical one.
Read the count for explicitly named ST digital-audio outputs. Check the output sample rate and required cable. A TOSLINK socket, SFP network cage or manufacturer-specific ST link should not be included under this standard optical-audio count.
Compare the receiving DAC’s interface and format support before selecting the connection. A matching fibre connector alone does not establish the same protocol, and the number of outputs does not rank sound quality or describe music-channel count.
ST Optical Output — Streamer
On a Streamer, an ST optical output provides a digital-audio route to a compatible DAC. It should be distinguished from optical networking, which connects the streamer to servers or music services rather than directly carrying this audio interface.
Read the count of explicitly identified ST audio outputs and check their supported rates. A TOSLINK output uses a different connector, while a proprietary protocol on an ST socket requires its own compatibility check.
Compare the receiving device’s protocol and input limits with the streamer’s output. File-playback capability does not automatically establish the same format at every connector, and an optical connection alone does not guarantee better sound.
ST Optical Output — SACD Transport
On an SACD Transport, an ST optical output carries the digital-audio formats specified for that connection. Its presence does not establish that native SACD data is available through it.
Check the supported disc source and transmitted rate. A brand-specific link such as Optilink may use ST connectors but belongs to its own proprietary interface. TOSLINK and fibre-network sockets are also separate connection types.
Compare the complete output specification with the DAC’s matching input. Do not infer SACD DSD or multichannel support from the glass-fibre connection alone. The count identifies available outputs rather than unrestricted access to every format the transport can play.