The Best Optical Cable For Soundbar In 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
KabelDirekt Optical Digital Audio Cable
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: KabelDirekt Optical Digital Audio Cable

The cable delivers uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound for a true hi-fi experience in your home theater or studio. Read Review

2. Runner-Up: BlueRigger Digital Optical Audio Toslink Cable

This is a regular fiber optic cable with a special coating that helps reduce the amount of jitter, noise, and distortion. Read Review

3. Best Connectors: EMK Optical Audio Cable Digital Toslink Cable

Not only does this cable have a low-loss signal, but it also has heavy metal connectors to dampen vibration. Read Review

4. Best Durable: BlueRigger Digital Optical Audio Toslink Cable

Featuring corrosion-resistant, 24K gold-plated connectors, and a slim connector design, this cable helps deliver clear sound without any interference. Read Review

You may be getting ready to buy an awesome soundbar but you may not know this, optical cables are useful for more than just transmitting data. An optical cable uses light as a medium to transmit audio signals rather than wires or radio frequencies. The right optical audio cable will give you a much better experience with your soundbar.

It’s critical to understand what makes one optic cable better than another before making your purchase decision. There are several things you should keep in mind when shopping for one, such as length and durability.

Thankfully, finding the right optical cable for your needs isn’t too difficult. Below, we have come up with a list of the best optical cables for soundbars, so you can make the best decision possible when buying a new optical cable for your needs.

Our winner, the KabelDirekt Optical Digital Audio Cable, can help deliver perfect, crystal-clear digital audio for most devices with little or no distortion. It's also one of the best-sellers and has received plenty of positive feedback from previous customers.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 KabelDirekt Optical Digital Audio Cable
Our Score:
9.9
KabelDirekt
  • 36 months manufacturer warranty
  • Home theater TOSLINK fiber optic cables: Professional cable works with multi-channel surround sound, uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution and LPCM
  • 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they are immune to RFI or EMI signal interference
  • Optical digital audio cable: Perfect, crystal-clear digital audio for DVDs, Blu-rays, home theater systems, receivers, satellite TV, online streaming, PlayStation 4 & Xbox One gaming systems
  • Highest quality digital audio cables: Optical cables feature a fully flexible PVC jacket with precision manufacturing to provide the highest quality, longest lasting optical cables available
TOP Choice #2 BlueRigger Digital Optical Audio Toslink Cable
Our Score:
9.7
BlueRigger
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILTY: BlueRigger optical audio cable is compatible with Soundbar, Home Theatre, HDTV, Game Consoles (Xbox, PS4 etc), Blu-Ray Player, DVR, DAC, Audio Processor, Receiver/Preamp etc. Compatible with Toslink, S/PDIF and optical ports
  • IMMERSIVE SOUND: Crystal clear multi-channel surround sound, uncompressed PCM audio, compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems (Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD, ADAT & LPCM). It provides great clarity and rich audio experience for enjoying game nights and watching movies
  • LIFETIME WARRANTY: BlueRigger cables are backed by a Lifetime Warranty and US-based customer support
  • SOLID CONSTRUCTION: Precision-polished 24K Gold plated optical connectors for optimal signal transfer and corrosion resistance. This protects against RFI & EMI interference. The slim connector design, allows for a snug and easy fit in the device
  • DURABLE AND SECURE CONNECTION: Lightweight, flexible high quality PVC jacket for long lasting usage. This cable comes with removable rubber tips to protect the connectors from dust and prevents oxidation. NOTE: Please remove the protective cover before use. CL3 rated for in wall installations
TOP Choice #3 EMK Optical Audio Cable Digital Toslink Cable
Our Score:
9.6
EMK
  • WHAT YOU GET: 1x EMK Digital Toslink Optical Cable ;Our provides a 18-Month warranty for digital optical audio and a 30-day money back guarantee;Please feel free to contact our customer service team for any problem.
  • PREMIUM QUALITY MATERIAL:Optical audio cable made of durable layer of nylon mesh jacket contributes to the OD6.0mm heavy duty construction that protects the cable from kinks and nicks. Most importantly, it greatly minimizes the chance of permanently damaging the fiber core from accidental bent.
  • LOW-LOSS SIGNAL TRANSMISSION: The signal of fiber optical audio cable is transferred by light source which eliminates electromagnetic interference [EMI] and radio frequency interference [RFI].Coupled with heavy metal connectors to dampen vibration. Digital audio cable works with multi-channel surround sound,Supports compressed 5.1/7.1 digital surround sound Uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution and LPCM.
  • 24K GOLD-PLATED CONDUCTORS:Made from premium quality 24k gold-plated conductors and ferrules that resist corrosion, reduce tarnish, and provide maximum protection for the fiber tip.
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: EMK digital toslink optical audio cable work with Blu-Ray player, DVD player, CD player, game console, digital media player, satellite/cable box, DAT recorder, computer, or any devices with OPTICAL (TOSLINK) port to your AV receiver, preamplifier, audio system, home theater system, sound bar, TV etc.
  • 【Immersive Sound】Crystal clear multi-channel surround sound, uncompressed PCM audio, compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems (Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD, ADAT & LPCM). It provides great clarity and rich audio experience for enjoying game nights and watching movies
  • 【Universal Compatibility】BlueRigger optical audio cable is compatible with Soundbar, Home Theatre, HDTV, Game Consoles (Xbox, PS4 etc), Blu-Ray Player, DVR, DAC, Audio Processor, Receiver/Preamp etc. Compatible with Toslink, S/PDIF and optical ports
  • 【Lifetime Warranty】BlueRigger cables are backed by a Lifetime Warranty and US-based customer support
  • 【Durable and Secure Connection】Constructed with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell and lightweight, flexible high quality PVC jacket for long lasting usage. This cable comes with removable rubber tips to protect the connectors from dust and prevents oxidation. NOTE: Please remove the protective cover before use. CL3 rated for in wall installations
  • 【Solid Construction】Precision-polished 24K Gold plated optical connectors for optimal signal transfer and corrosion resistance. This protects against RFI & EMI interference. The slim connector design, allows for a snug and easy fit in the device
  • Compatibility - Optical Audio Digital Toslink Cable is compatible with standard and high-definition devices with Toslink (S/PDIF, optical) ports. Compatible for the sound bar to receiver/preamp, audio processor, DAC, TV and PS4, Playstation, Xbox gaming systems, Blu-ray player, computer, AV receiver, Roku, Xbox One/360, HDTV, monitor, projector, etc.
  • Premium Support - If you have any doubts about the product, please feel free to contact us. We offer friendly warranty support and fast/easy-to-reach Customer Service to solve your problems within 12 hours.
  • Durable Construction - Highly sturdy and designed to last, our optical audio cable is Ultra thin, light weight and flexible and comes with dust proof rubber caps to protect the connectors from dust, dirt, and oxidation when not in use or plugged in.
  • Double 90 Degree Right Angle Toslink Digital Optical SPDIF Audio Cable: 360 Degree swivel adjustable right angled on both ends, Ideal for audio installations where space is tight or limited. The rotating head works better for small spaces between wall and devices
  • Superior Sound Quality - Features corrosion-resistant, gold-plated connectors and buffer tubing for optimal signal transfer. Clear uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution and LPCM. It is the high resolution digital cable with Toslink connectors offer the most acurate digital audio signal transfer for maximum audio clarity and resolution
  • Gold plated ferrule resists corrosion and provides maximum protection for the connector tip
  • Precision polished fiber tips for maximum signal transfer | 8.0mm outside diameter
  • Full-sized male Digital Optical Audio (Toslink) connectors at each end
  • Heavy duty premium, square metal connector heads | Mesh metal jacket protects cable from nicks, cuts, and kinks
7 SKW Optical Digital Audio Cable
Our Score:
9.0
SKW
  • Designed for home theatre and professional AV installations. Precision polished fiber tips for maximum signal transfer (includes tip protectors).Optical cables transfer the signal using light, thus completely eliminating any chance for RFI, EMI or ground loop interference.
  • Range of application: cameras, monitoring system, HD video and audio system, MD player network TV, digital TV, satellite television, broadband network, communication net system, 3D and 4D HD digital cinema, digital imaging system, car, aircraft, ships and other digital audio equipment.
  • Unparalleled Sound Quality - Features corrosion-resistant, gold-plated connectors and buffer tubing for optimal signal transfer.
  • No more fear of wire breaking down after a few years of use with extra shielding.We have strict test for each cable before we sent it to you
  • Perfect Compatibility - The SKW digital optical audio cable is compatible with standard and high-definition devices with Toslink ports. Perfect for the sound bar to receiver/preamp, audio processor, DAC, TV and PS4, Playstation, Xbox gaming systems etc.
  • Several highly polished polymer fibers instead of a single plastic conductor
  • Excellent dynamic gradations
  • Smoother, more natural tonal palette
  • Greater resolution and improved tonality
  • Compatible devices: PC
  • Surprising transient performance
  • WARRANTY PROTECTED: Monster has set the standard for high quality sound delivery, and our warranty protection is an extension of our promise to bring you nothing but the best; Monster set the standard with the Original Lifetime Cable Warranty, which means the Monster Essentials Digital Optical Audio Cable is covered by our 100% replacement guarantee, so you’ll be a Monster for Life
  • MULTI-CHANNEL SOUND SURROUND SUPPORT: A full visual system isn't complete without a booming audio system that delivers the surround sound experience each time; This Monster Essentials Digital Optical Audio Cable works with surround sound systems which includes 5.1 Dolby Digital, 5.1/7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, 5.1 DTS, and 5.1/7/1 DTS 96/24
  • REDUCES SIGNAL INTERFERENCE: Not done as an aesthetic choice, the Monster digital optical audio cable are made with gold plated connector terminals that ensure accurate signal transfer and higher fidelity audio
  • MADE WITH PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our Monster digital audio optical cables are made to be durable than most cables out there; Each digital optical audio cable is constructed with a Duraflex with braided protective jacket and metal housings, making sure that you can keep high quality longer
  • PERFECT FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM: Enhance your home theater, streaming, or gaming system with a digital optical audio cable that lets you experience a full cinematic experience without the hassle of making additional installations; The Monster Digital Optical Audio Cable delivers crisp and clear sound so you can maximize your system's full potential
  • The surfaces of the TOSLINK connectors (m/m) are 24k gold plated for absolute corrosion resistance.
  • 1pc/set
  • Providing transmission speeds with a data rate higher than 250 Mbit/s.
  • The optical TOSLINK HiFi digital signal cable BB-101 has an internal optical fiber made of glass fiber-reinforced, transparent polymer.
  • The JIB cable series Boaacoustic Blackberry is manufactured with advanced technology from Germany. The solid processing of the high-quality materials ensures high signal fidelity and detailed sound reproduction of your HiFi components.
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The main aspects you should think about before purchasing best optical cable for soundbar

Would you like to understand exactly what you've been doing before buying something? If that's the case, you should follow this blog article. In it, I'll go over the main factors you should think about before purchasing best optical cable for soundbar.

These features are supposed to keep your purchasing intention as informed as possible and to ensure that you find the best optical cable for soundbar for your needs.

What's holding you back? What other reasons do people give for purchasing inferior products rather than the top-of-the-line product they desire? We'll be around when you're prepared to intervene. Please read the following points to help you select best optical cable for soundbar easier.

Size

To ensure that the unit will not block the screen, or interfere with the remote control or display of your TV's remote, check its dimensions. You should also check that the design of the unit matches your TV.

Wired/wireless Speakers

Some soundbars allow for wired and wireless connection to other speakers. Some soundbars only support a subwoofer. However, a few models offer "surround sound" connectivity, which allows you to connect other speakers to the rear of the room to replicate 5.1. You can purchase these speakers separately or as a bundle at an extra cost.

Ease Of Set-up And Use

It is easy to hook up the soundbar with your TV or other device and get started using it immediately. This can be gauged by looking at the manual or reading some user reviews.

Additional Features

You might also want these features in your soundbar:
There are special sound modes for various audio types, such as watching movies, listening to music, or gaming. You can adjust the treble and bass settings depending on what you are watching/listening too.
Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa for voice-controlled music.
Front-panel displays that display important information, such as volume levels. Make sure to check if this display is able to be switched off when it's not in use so that it does not become distracting.

Connectivity

Soundbars typically only require one cable to connect with your TV. HDMI is the best choice. Make sure that your soundbar is equipped with all necessary ports for connecting to Blu-ray players and USB storage. You should check if your soundbar has a pass-through function that transmits 4K HDR video from your 4K HDR TV.

Subwoofer

In large rooms, a soundbar with an external subwoofer (or dedicated soundbar) can be more effective than one without it. A subwoofer that is well made will enhance low-end sound quality and add a cinematic vibe to your system. A sub that is poorly designed can cause a drop in sound quality. A soundbase is a great option if you need bass, but aren't able to fit an external sub. They include an integrated subwoofer.

Number Of Channels And Speakers

A soundbar with just 2.1 channels may be enough to enhance the audio quality of your TV. A 5.1 and 7.1 models might offer better sound quality when you watch TV/movies or listen to audio. Dolby Atmos is available on 5.1.2 and 7.1.2 models. This technology allows for a richer experience. It involves placing speakers higher than the roof, to create sound from above.

Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Bluetooth is an important soundbar feature that allows you stream music from compatible phones, tablets and computers to your soundbar. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to stream music from your Spotify account or access cloud music libraries.

FAQs

Where Do I Place My Soundbar?

The soundbars can be placed directly in front of your TV using a stand, or any other type of furniture. They are usually less than 2 inches high so they won't interfere with the infrared remote port of your TV or block it. Some soundbars are also wall-mountable and include brackets. There are third-party kits that can be used to mount soundbars on the wall.

Can You Add Speakers To A Sound Bar?

There are both yes and no. Some sound bars have additional speakers that can be added to the system, which brings you closer to home theatre sound. If the soundbar is multi-room compatible, then wireless rear speakers can be added. This is a good option for those who have or want to install a multi-room sound system in their home.

Will A Soundbar Improve Sound Quality?

Modern TVs have very tiny speakers which bounce sound off of your TV. As a result, they can be distant and harsh. A soundbar can be added to most TVs to improve their sound quality, particularly when it comes down to reproducing spoken words. It will also allow you to listen to music.

Can You Use A Soundbar To Play Music?

A soundbar can make music play through your TV much more enjoyable. Bluetooth is a feature that many soundbars offer, so you won't have to turn on the TV to hear your music. A soundbar that has a wireless subwoofer will work best to reproduce deep bass and dynamics.

Can A Sound Bar Be Used As A Center Speaker?

There are some that can and others that can't, but it's not something we recommend. Although a passive soundbar could technically be used to provide center channel speakers, this is not what it was designed for. This is like asking a pitcher to play both catch and second base instead of the only position that he excels at.

Can You Use Any Soundbar With Any TV?

There are very few exceptions to this rule. However, you can still use your soundbar with any TV. It is helpful sometimes to match soundbar and TV brands. New soundbars often use HDMI ARC to transmit the audio from the TV's speakers through the soundbar. If both of your devices have this port, you are good. An optical connection is available on some older soundbars, and almost all TVs have them.

Can You Add A Subwoofer To A Sound Bar?

Wireless sound bars often come with a subwoofer. You can also add your own wireless subwoofer to the sound bars that do not have one. If you desire an immersive experience, you'll want it.

Are Soundbars Really Worth It?

They are well worth the investment when compared to how loud your TV sounds. A soundbar costs only $100 and can make your TV viewing experience 10x better. A soundbar can make it easier to understand speech by allowing TV speakers to face down.

Conclusion

When looking for best optical cable for soundbar, it's not always clear where to begin. We produced this list of key factors to serve as a preliminary step prior to actually making your purchase to assist you in making an informed decision.

We hope that these sections will assist you in making the best decision possible and saving you money on items that do not work or are poorly. If you have any questions about our product selections, please visit QED Performance Optical Cable. This will be the most fantastic option for your expectations.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.