Now play a FLAC or WAV file. You will hear a clarity and dynamic range that standard Windows audio cannot achieve. The difference is not subtle—it is revelatory.
Standard optical cables do not have enough bandwidth to carry uncompressed 5.1 or 7.1 audio. For PC gaming in true surround sound, analog cables (using the black, orange, and green jacks) or an HDMI cable are actually superior to an optical digital cable. 📌 The Verdict realtek digital output better
The answer depends entirely on your hardware chain—specifically where your sound is being converted from data into the airwaves you hear. What is Realtek Digital Output? Now play a FLAC or WAV file
If you are plugging headphones or basic computer speakers into the small round jacks (3.5mm), the "Speakers" setting is the correct choice. Standard optical cables do not have enough bandwidth
When you use the standard green 3.5mm jack on the back of your motherboard, the conversion happens .
In Windows, go to Settings > System > Sound and select "Realtek Digital Output" from the output list.