Optical cable - DVD to Amp - help needed

[nasa]

Hi,

I bought an optical cable to replace a coax digital cable from my DVD to my AMP. The head of the cable doesnt "click" into the socket! both ends of the optical cable seem to be too small.. Are there different types of optical cables?

 

[P924]

Why do you want to change? Coax is better, optical is call toslink for a reason

 

[nasa]

Oh thanks! I always thought optical was better. Guess I'll exchange the optical for a new coax.

EDIT: Found this FYI -

1. An optical cable is a better option in environments with lots of electromagnetic interference, for instance, near personal computers or power cords sending out radio frequency noise.

2. Optical cables should be the preferred option for long distance transmission. While 3 or 6 feet will not make much difference, if the user needs speakers that are spread 25 to 50 feet, optical digital cables are definitely the way to go.

3. In low budget circumstances, coaxial cables are usually more economical.

4. Coaxial cables are the only choice when the sound system set-up requires that the cables are bent to fit certain areas. Also, the performance of optical cables may get compromised if the system is moved frequently.

 

[Barry]

There are 2 styles of TOSLINK (optical) connector. The original one has a squarish base that provides the latching, this is usually what is used on DVD's and amps. The mini-TOSLINK looks like a headphone mini-jack and is typically found on laptops or devices where density is at a premium and this allows analogue or digital connectivity through the same socket (but not simultaneously). Details and images at http://http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toslink.

nasa it is possible (but unlikely) that the interconnect you have is actually terminated with adapters. Probably worth a look - could be your lucky day .

 

[noxibox]

In my experience there is variability in the sizes of both the sockets and connectors. Some simply don't click in place. What has worked for me is to put a small piece of masking tape onto the plug to make it a bit fatter to get a snug fit.