2nd gen Apple TV audio options

[gsrbob]

Anyone using the DAC from monoprice for audio? I have an older AVR with no HDMI inputs and was considering buying one for the 2nd zone on my AVR. My 2nd zone does not output digital and is strictly for music on Airplay. So the only way i can get audio right now is to leave my TV on with the AVR set to the 2nd zone on TV input.

 

[stevenb]

converting optical audio to RCA...

I went to Amazon and bought one of the Gefen units to convert optical out of the ATV2 to RCA component (red and white) and it worked fine. I have heard on the boards that some people have reported "hiss" on some, but do not remember which ones. The Gefen one is a bit more expensive, but it has better reviews. If you want Dolby 5.1, you need to buy the really expensive Gefen one. Take care.

 

[gsrbob]

I went to Amazon and bought one of the Gefen units to convert optical out of the ATV2 to RCA component (red and white) and it worked fine. I have heard on the boards that some people have reported "hiss" on some, but do not remember which ones. The Gefen one is a bit more expensive, but it has better reviews. If you want Dolby 5.1, you need to buy the really expensive Gefen one. Take care.

Thanx for the input. I was digging around the other day an saw the Gefen piece but haven't looked into it completely. I'm wondering if the more expensive one is even worth it, I'm not sure I would use the 5.1 audio in the second zone. Right now it's mostly Pandora and my music that's on my phone. I did read that the monoprice piece had a bit of a loose optical input.

 

[stevenb]

Do you need Dolby 5.1...

I doubted I would use Dolby with my current set-up. My TV and audio does not support it. When I move on to new tv and audio, they should have HDMI and optical audio. My tv has only a DVI connection, so I had to do something to get audio to my tv with RCA cables. I can say the Gefen unit has worked fine and no "hiss" or other noises. If you shop Amazon, check daily on the price because it varies a lot at times from day to day.