Choose an analog-to-digital converter when your source uses left and right analog audio and the receiving equipment needs a digital coaxial or Toslink signal; choose a digital-to-analog converter for the reverse connection, such as sending digital audio to analog RCA or 3.5 mm equipment. Choose an audio extractor when you need to separate audio from an HDMI source and route it through digital or analog outputs, while checking the converter’s supported signal format, channels, and sample rates.

Check whether the audio adapter supports the connections in your system, such as 3.5 mm, RCA or L/R analog, Toslink optical, coaxial, HDMI ARC, or eARC. Confirm the signal direction and format, including analog-to-digital or digital-to-analog conversion, stereo or surround audio, PCM or compressed audio, and the source’s supported sample rate.

Use Toslink or coaxial connections when the source and receiving equipment use digital audio, RCA or 3.5 mm connections for analog stereo audio, and screw-terminal adapters when you need to connect or extend bare speaker or audio wires without cutting and soldering. Choose a digital-to-analog converter, analog-to-digital converter, or HDMI audio extractor when the source and destination use different signal types or connectors.

When installing audio adapters, confirm the required signal connections, such as HDMI, eARC, Toslink, coaxial, RCA, 3.5 mm, or screw terminals, and allow space for compact converter units and cable routing. Many converters use an external 5V DC power supply, while eARC extension systems may use 12V DC power or power over cable, so plan nearby power access and use the recommended Category cable for longer runs.