Help needed - digital or analog outputs?

[jaree]

In my CD player, I have three options for output:

1) Traditional Analog (left and right channels)
2) Digital Optical
3) Digital Co-axial

My pre-amplifier supports all three inputs. Will using the digital output give me a better sound quality than analog outputs? And of the two digital options which one is better - optical or co-axial?

Since the output from pre-amp to power amp is analog and from power amp to loudspeakers is also analog would using digital output from the CD player to pre-amp really make a difference?

[kexodusc]

Will using the digital output give me a better sound quality than analog outputs?
Depends...The CD player is reading digital info...the amplifiers get analog. Conversion has to happen somewhere in the chain (digital-to-analog, DAC). Sound quality will depend on whether the CD player or pre-amp has the better DAC. Listening tests might be required.
If you believe the CD player has the better DAC, use the analog outs, if you think the pre-amp converts better, use that digital outs....


And of the two digital options which one is better - optical or co-axial?
Neither, though the coaxial one is more reliable, and usually cheaper (it's the same cable as your typical "yellow" video RCA cable).


Since the output from pre-amp to power amp is analog and from power amp to loudspeakers is also analog would using digital output from the CD player to pre-amp really make a difference?
A lot of cheap DAC's perform quite well these days against some very hi-end DAC's...differences can be quite minimal at the extremes. As you lessen the gap between generic and high-end, the chances of noticeable differences are even less.

In my case, my Arcam CD player appears to me to sound better using analog cables than my $200 Yamaha CD player. It should, it was over a lot more expensive. Not much better, but I notice a bit more resolution on softer music like jazz, or acoustic instruments.
When I use the digital output on my Yammie though, I can't hear any differences if they exist.

[LMB]

Jaree

Personally, I prefer digital coax over optical (optical to bright base better with coax)
I have my cd player hooked up with audioquest coax cable
Just try them out and decide which one sounds better to you.

have fun

[albacora14]

I am totally and perfect agree with kexodusc and
LMB, I think you have consider the DAC from your CD player and AMP, processor or Reciever.
I have the 3 connections... I preffer the analog, cos my CD player have a superior D/A, the difference it's audible.