SirFapsAlot
Von Clippowicz
- 1,128
- -4,661
The optical is actually probably an analog signal since it's audio. But if not your speakers might have a built in DAC since they are powered.
The subwoofer is the DAC and AMP for the system, it and the left/right speakers are getting an analog signal. The "purest" signal you'll get from a PC will be via the USB, as the Optical will be going through Windows and/or whatever soundcard the PC is using. I doubt you'll hear any difference between analog or digital via those 2.1's.
Thanks for the insight, guys. Yeah, this shit just goes way over my head. I used to think that if it's optical, then it's some life changing audio experience, because of the digital element. After reading your responses and looking into some alternatives, I think I'm just going to keep my current speakers and if anything, possibly pick up some decent head phones.
This guy's review pretty much sealed the deal if I end up going with purchasing new head phones. I've got some cheapo ones now, but after tweaking sound / audio settings in various games and listening to music at the right volume setting,, seems OK for the time being, but these are looking great and the build quality seems top notch.

ATH-M50x
Trusted in both the studio and at home, the ATH-M50x are our best-selling headphones for pro audio use. The proprietary large-aperture drivers deliver exceptional clarity throughout an extended fr ...
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