[Explored] Can I Get 5.1 From SPDIF?

Although SPDIFs (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) are more susceptible to noise and interference compared to optical cables, they still are one of the best available choices in you want to transmit multiple channels with high-quality output. However, is it possible to get 5.1 from SPDIF?

Well, it depends. Because, theoretically, if your audio source is 5.1 and the receiver is capable of DD or DTS, then you can get 5.1 from SPDIF. However, inherently, SPDIF doesn’t support the 5.1 output losslessly. It can either do dual channel uncompressed stereo or PCM audio, or compressed 5.1 via DTS or Dolby Digital.

What is 5.1 surround sound?

5.1 surround consists of six channels. apart from the subwoofer, there are left, right, and center, along with left and right surround. It can provide an immersive listening experience throughout your listening needs like gaming, binge-watching, or listening to music.

To enjoy 5.1 surround sound, you need a source device that can output 5.1 audio, a receiver or amplifier that can decode and amplify 5.1 audio, and six speakers (or a soundbar) that can reproduce 5.1 audio.

What You Need to Get 5.1 from SPDIF

To get 5.1 from SPDIF, you need to make sure that:

• The source device (such as a PC, Blu-ray player, or game console) can output 5.1 audio in DD or DTS format.
• The receiver or amplifier can decode and amplify 5.1 audio in DD or DTS format.
• The speakers are connected and configured correctly for 5.1 audio.

You also need to select the appropriate settings on your source device and receiver or amplifier to enable SPDIF output and input, respectively.

What Are the Limitations of SPDIF

As we’ve explained in the beginning, SPDIF can only transmit 5.1 audio when using compressed formats like Dolby Digital (DD) or DTS. These formats use a process called encoding to reduce the size of the audio data and fit it into the bandwidth of SPDIF. The receiver or amplifier then uses a process called decoding to restore the audio data and play it back in 5.1 channels. So, technically, it cannot do lossless audio through 5.1 surround.

SPDIF does not have the bandwidth to send uncompressed 5.1 audio, such as PCM or LPCM. These formats use more data to preserve the original quality of the audio, but they require more bandwidth than SPDIF can provide. Therefore, SPDIF can only send uncompressed audio in stereo (two channels).

What Are the Possible Alternatives to SPDIF for 5.1 Stereo

If you want to get uncompressed 5.1 audio or higher formats like 7.1 surround sound or Dolby Atmos, you need to use a different type of connection than SPDIF. One such alternative is HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), which is a digital video and audio connection that can support up to 32 channels of audio with high resolution and quality. HDMI can also carry video signals, so you can use one cable to connect your source device to your receiver or amplifier and then to your TV or monitor.

Another option is to use the USB (Universal Serial Bus), which is a digital data connection that can also support multichannel audio with high resolution and quality. USB can connect your source device directly to your speakers or soundbar without the need for a receiver or amplifier.

How to get 5.1 SPDIF on Your Computer

To get SPDIF on your computer, if you are using Windows 10, do the following: 

• Go to Settings > System > Sound > Device properties > Additional device properties > Advanced 
• Now choose Dolby Digital Live or DTS Interactive as the default format for your SPDIF output device.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Can a TV send a 5.1 surround sound?

While TVs accept 5.1 surround sound input, they can’t technically send 5.1 over HDMI. So, it will downmix the 5.1 stereos and convert it into 2 channel stereo output. So, in the case of TVs, you can’t get 5.1 through HDMI.

What is the maximum sample rate for SPDIF?

You can get 20 bits or 24 bits of audio with SPDIF and the sample rate at maximum can be 192 kHz.

Which audio is better 5.1 or Atmos?

Traditional surround sound uses channels like 2.1, 5.1, and 7.1. Dolby Atmos, on the other hand, provides better spatial accuracy by assigning sound to specific locations in the room. Dolby Atmos also incorporates upward-firing drivers for added height, enhancing the overall experience.

Conclusion

So, to sum up, you can get 5.1 surround from SPDIF if you are fine with compressed audio and using formats like DTS or Dolby Digital. Because true lossless or uncompressed 5.1 or even 7.1 is not supported by the existing SPDIF technology. So, if you really need a lossless 5.1 stereo or higher, we recommend you to use other connectors like the HDMI or USB, which are gaining rapid popularity these days, due to their versatility and ease of use.