Audio Standard Standards

All Audio Standard standard versions with speeds, features, and compatibility.

Audio standards encompass analog signaling, digital protocols, and codec specifications for sound reproduction. S/PDIF (Sony/Philips) carries digital audio over coaxial or optical connections, while AES/EBU provides professional balanced digital audio. Modern standards like aptX HD and LDAC define high-resolution Bluetooth audio codecs. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X define immersive spatial audio formats transported over HDMI eARC or streaming connections.

AES3/EBU (Digital Audio)

5/10

Professional digital audio interface carrying two channels over balanced XLR cable. Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz. The studio-grade alternative to consumer S/PDIF.

Dolby Atmos

8/10

Object-based spatial audio format placing sounds in 3D space rather than fixed channels. Requires HDMI eARC or compatible streaming for lossless playback.

S/PDIF

3/10

Sony/Philips Digital Interface for consumer digital audio. Carries stereo PCM or compressed 5.1 surround (Dolby/DTS). Available over TOSLINK optical or coaxial RCA.