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You can connect a smart TV to an amplifier without HDMI by matching an audio output on the TV to a compatible audio input on the amplifier. If both have optical ports, use a TOSLINK cable. If the TV has optical output but the amplifier only has analog RCA inputs, you need a digital-to-analog converter. Analog outputs can connect directly to analog inputs.
Check the TV output and amplifier input first
Look at the port labels on both devices and check their manuals. The TV connection must be an audio output and the amplifier connection an audio input; matching connector shapes alone do not guarantee a working connection. Available ports vary by model, as Sony’s connection guidance illustrates for TVs and external audio equipment.
- On the TV, look for OPTICAL DIGITAL AUDIO OUT, AUDIO OUT, RCA left/right outputs, or a stereo-mini/headphone output that the manual identifies for audio output.
- On the amplifier, look for a matching optical/digital input or analog line input, such as RCA left/right.
Choose the connection that matches your ports
| TV audio output | Amplifier audio input | What to connect |
|---|---|---|
| Optical digital out | Optical/digital in that supports the TV’s output format | TOSLINK cable |
| Optical digital out | Analog RCA line in | Optical-to-stereo-RCA digital-to-analog converter, plus TOSLINK and RCA cables |
| Analog RCA out | Analog RCA line in | Stereo RCA cable |
| Stereo-mini or headphone audio out, confirmed by the TV manual | Compatible analog input | Suitable stereo cable for the TV and amplifier connectors |
| Bluetooth audio transmission | Compatible Bluetooth audio reception, directly or through a receiver | Bluetooth connection or compatible receiver |
Optical TV output to optical amplifier input
- Connect a TOSLINK cable from the TV’s optical digital audio output to the amplifier’s optical or digital audio input. LG’s digital amplifier setup instructions describe this direct connection.
- Turn on the amplifier and select the input connected to the TV.
- Set the TV’s sound output to its optical or external audio output, if required. The amplifier must support the audio format the TV sends; consult both manuals for format choices.
Optical TV output to RCA amplifier input
Optical audio is digital, while RCA line inputs accept analog audio. Put a powered digital-to-analog converter between them: connect the TV’s optical output to the converter’s optical input, then connect the converter’s stereo RCA outputs to an analog line input on the amplifier. Use the converter in the correct direction and confirm it accepts the TV’s digital format and provides an output the amplifier can use. An RCA cable by itself cannot convert optical digital audio to analog.
Analog TV output to analog amplifier input
If the TV has analog RCA audio output and the amplifier has an analog RCA input, connect left to left and right to right with a stereo RCA cable. For a stereo-mini or headphone output, use an appropriate cable only if the TV manual confirms that port provides audio out. LG’s connection guidance shows a TV audio output connected to external audio equipment; check your own model’s labels and instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is an option only if the TV can transmit audio to an external device and the amplifier can receive that audio, either directly or through a compatible receiver. Check both manuals for the supported route and compatibility before buying equipment; the presence of Bluetooth on one device does not establish that the pair can connect for TV audio.
Set the TV audio output and amplifier input
- Turn on the amplifier and select the input connected to the TV or converter.
- In the TV’s sound settings, choose the external audio output. Depending on the model, the menu may use labels such as Speaker Output, Audio Output, S/PDIF, or Digital Audio Out.
- For optical audio, select an output format supported by the amplifier. If the TV offers automatic detection or PCM, consult the manuals to determine which setting is appropriate. Format options and behavior differ by model.
- If both TV speakers and the amplifier play at once and create an echo, switch to external audio or turn off the TV speakers if that option is available. LG’s TV sound-system instructions include this guidance.
Troubleshoot silence, echo, or unexpected sound
No sound over optical
- Check that the TOSLINK cable is seated at both ends and the amplifier is set to the input it uses.
- Confirm the TV is sending audio through optical or external output.
- Check format compatibility in both manuals. If available, try an automatic or compatible PCM setting rather than a format the amplifier cannot decode.
LG’s digital amplifier guidance requires format support, and an LG TV manual gives model-specific examples of digital output settings and format-related silence.
Rank #2
- Please REMOVE the end protective caps before using the cable.
- IN THE BOX: 6-foot digital optical audio Toslink cable.
- CLEAR AUDIO: Multi-channel, fiber-optic digital audio output; corrosion resistant gold-plated connectors and buffer tubing for optimal signal transfer.
- DURABLE: Lightweight, flexible cable with a rugged PVC exterior and removable rubber tips that protect the cable when not plugged in; remove before using.
- CONNECTS DEVICES: Quickly connects a sound bar, CD player, Blu-Ray player, game console, or other device to an audio system or TV.
No sound through an optical-to-RCA converter
- Make sure the converter is powered and connected optical-in to RCA-out.
- Verify the amplifier is set to the RCA input receiving the converter.
- Check that the converter accepts the TV’s output format and supplies compatible channels. A passive cable cannot replace a converter.
Echo, distortion, or missing surround audio
For echo, use the TV’s external-audio or speaker settings to avoid simultaneous playback. If sound is distorted, missing, or not the expected surround format, check the audio format and channel support of the TV, amplifier, and any converter in the chain. Not every output or converter passes every format.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
Rank #4
- 【Extra-Long 10ft Cable for Flexible Setup】iVANKY 10ft optical audio cable provides just the right length to connect your devices comfortably - no more struggling with cables that are too short. Enjoy the same pristine, lossless audio quality while having the freedom to arrange your home theater, gaming system, or audio components exactly how you want
- 【Ultra-Clear Audio Quality with Japan Toray Original Fiber Core】iVANKY optical audio cable uses Japan Toray Original Fiber Core to deliver zero-distortion, lossless audio. This toslink cable is compatible with uncompressed PCM audio and compressed 5.1 to 7.1 surround sound systems, including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution, and LPCM. This digital optical audio cable ensures a wide dynamic range for an immersive listening experience
- 【Universal Device Compatibility】This optical cable for soundbar and home theaters connects seamlessly to a wide range of devices with standard Toslink (s/PDIF, Optical) ports, such as TVs, Soundbar, Speaker, Receiver, PS4, Xbox, Blu-Ray players, and more. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enhance their audio setup with a fiber optic cable that works flawlessly across multiple devices
- 【24K Gold-plated Connectors & Superior Durability】 Unlike conventional PVC jackets, iVANKY optical cable features a high-quality nylon braided jacket that withstands over 16,000 bends, making it highly durable and resistant to breakage. The aluminum shell and 24K gold-plated connectors prevent tarnishing and maintain conductivity over time, ensuring long-lasting performance
- 【Precision Design】The precisely designed cuboid connectors of this digital optical audio cable make installation easy and secure. The flexible and lightweight nylon material ensures hassle-free handling. Additionally, removable rubber caps protect the connectors from dust and oxidation when not in use. CL3-rated, this cable is also designed for in-wall installation, providing flexibility for your setup
Rank #3
- Optical digital audio cable: Perfect for equipment with a TOSLINK interface (OPT In / OPT Out or S/PDIF In / S/PDIF Out). TOSLINK connector to TOSLINK connector (F05 connector)
- Versatile: Ideal for transmitting crystal-clear digital audio from your TV, video game console (PS3/PS4/Xbox One), DVD/Blu-ray player, or TV streaming box to a soundbar, amplifier/amp, stereo/Hi-Fi system, D/A converter, and more
- High-End: This metal-free fiber optic audio cable, featuring a fully flexible PVC jacket, is entirely immune to electrical interference. Each cable undergoes multi-stage testing during manufacturing to ensure maximum product quality and durability
- 24K gold-plated connectors: Corrosion resistant gold plating keeps connectors clean. And because these cables are fiber optic, they provide 100 % signal transmission with 0 % loss
- No risk: 36 months manufacturer warranty
What to verify before buying a cable or converter
- The TV port is an audio output, and the amplifier port is an audio input.
- The connector types match, or the necessary conversion device is included in the connection plan.
- For optical connections, the amplifier—or converter and amplifier together—supports the TV’s selected format and channel output.
- If you rely on the TV remote for volume, check the manuals for whether that control works with your chosen connection; behavior depends on the devices and connection.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
