Optical cable broken?

Arctucas · **Optical cable broken? -** 04-25-2012, 16:48 | posts: 1,748

I have an Auzen Meridian 7.1 2G, and I am using the optical cable to connect it to my Z-5500 control pod.

While re-arranging my PC cables, I noticed that the optical cable has a 'red spot' approximately in the middle.

Does that mean the cable is broken at that point?

Thanks

nikavelli · 04-25-2012, 18:25 | posts: 348

I think the real question is why are you using digital out in the first place. The Z-5500's DAC is inferior to what is found on the Meridian. Using digital out, you're actually downgrading the sound quality.

Arctucas · 04-25-2012, 18:28 | posts: 1,748

OK, but how about answering the question?

heymian · 04-25-2012, 18:54 | posts: 360

He's right. When you use digital out, you're bypassing much of your sound card. This is a waste because the Meridian 2G is well built with high quality components. Instead, you're using the lower quality DAC found inside the Z-5550's. If I were you, I would not be using optical out. Get yourself some high quality analog cables, you will get a nice increase in sound quality.

Arctucas · 04-25-2012, 19:08 | posts: 1,748

I appreciate all the helpful advice.

However, I am simply asking about the optical cable being broken, not whether it is the best choice, or any other thing.

Once again, in case I am not being completely clear about my inquiry; is the cable broken?

EspHack · 04-25-2012, 19:17 | posts: 1,548

you're getting sound from the speakers? if not, is broken i think

Arctucas · 04-25-2012, 20:04 | posts: 1,748

@EspHack,

Yes, I am getting sound.

From my limited knowledge about, and experience with, fiber optics, I can believe the cable is still allowing transmission, but I seem to recall that if light appears anywhere along the cable, it is indicative of a break, while the cladding and/or sheathing remain intact.

I am merely trying to ascertain or confirm this is the case.

I have submitted a ticket to Auzen, but from past experience, it may be a week or more before I receive a response.

That is why I was asking here, as I believe the users and staff are generally quite knowledgeable and helpful.

I do appreciate your addressing the question.

Nato.dbnz · 04-25-2012, 22:13 | posts: 3,255 | Location: Auckland NZ

If you are getting sound then it's safe to say it isn't "fully" broken. There is no danger with a damaged optical cable as it's only passing light so I wouldn't worry about it.

Arctucas · 04-26-2012, 01:49 | posts: 1,748

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nato.dbnz

If you are getting sound then it's safe to say it isn't "fully" broken. There is no danger with a damaged optical cable as it's only passing light so I wouldn't worry about it.

OK, Thanks.

ROBSCIX · *Last edited by ROBSCIX; 04-26-2012 at 02:51.*

The red dot is the optical signal.

If you have sound it is still passing the signal but I would replace it ASAP.

Hope that helps.

automaticman · 04-26-2012, 05:11 | posts: 662 | Location: Orange County, CA

You mean you're seeing a red spot like light coming through? If so I'd change it but I wouldn't bother with an expensive cable.

I also prefer analog out to optical in my setup, if you're going cable shopping it's a good time to make the switch.