Word for the Day Archive

S/PDIF

A format for interfacing digital audio equipment together, S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format) is considered a consumer format, and is largely based on the AES/EBU standard. In fact, in many cases the two are compatible. There are, however differences between the two formats, particularly in the channel status and user bits.

S/PDIF typically uses either unbalanced, high impedance coaxial cables or fiber optic cables for transmission. When using coaxial cables for transmission, it is normally best to keep cable lengths to a minimum, and to use the best quality 75 ohm video-type cables available.