Do any of you use this connector?

[chris260999]

https://imgur.com/a/431oq
I know what it does, but i can't seem to find a single person that uses it. Why is it so unpopular?

 

[DRagor]

Most people that want to use SPDIF buy motherboards that already have the port on back panel, as those have better sound card built-in. Those that are satisfied with average sound card usually don't need anything more then normal mini-jack connected speakers.

 

[COLGeek]

Those using advanced sound devices, music production for example, may use them. Just not something the average user needs.

 

[Solandri]

A common problem I've seen with using onboard audio for advanced sound production is the audio tends to pick up noise from the other motherboard components. So most people doing serious audio work (and who are likely to use this connector) prefer external audio equipment which can be electrically shielded from the inside of the computer, and connected only via a USB cable (the digital link helps avoid ground loop issues).

So you've got a connector on the motherboard which both amateurs and pros don't want to use. Why would manufacturers continue to put it on? I dunno, maybe as a tie-breaker? If you're comparison shopping two motherboards and they're pretty equal in features, you may decide to pick the one with the S/PDIF connector even though you doubt you'll ever use it.

 

[chris260999]

A common problem I've seen with using onboard audio for advanced sound production is the audio tends to pick up noise from the other motherboard components.

i've had that issue for a long time when gaming. Some interference gets to the audio jack and is definitely audible from the speakers. Right now I am using hdmi to a TV with a coaxial out, to an av receiver. I can clearly hear the difference between this conection and 3.5 jack. even though 3.5 sounds louder, the highs sound grainy, and the lows are muddier. This is my workaround since i haven't been able to find the cable required for this port on the motherboard.

 

[chris260999]

So are you telling me an usb connection is preferred over an spdif or a 3.5?