Digital > Analog audio converter ?

[mgpg89]

I know this isn't really Apple-related, but here goes ...

I have the following set-up:
- Philips 42" LED TV (42PFL4007H/12)
- Harman Kardon Soundsticks II speaker set
- Apple TV

The speaker set has a standard 3.5mm jack, but my TV only accepts an optical audio connection ... Is there any way to convert the signal? If so, what should I buy?

Thanks in advance

P.S. I can't simply plug the speaker set into my TV's headphone port, because then I can't control the volume level.

 

[TMRaven]

Probably depends on tv, but you might see if the TV's optical out is a pure digital line out that can be connected to an external dac, which then can be fed to the speakers if they have their own amp. You can also control volume with the headphone port, but you'd just need a preamp. This is all assuming the soundsticks have their own amp.

 

[ChrisA]

... Is there any way to convert the signal? If so, what should I buy?...

Type these words, without the quotes into Google's search box:
"spdif digital to analog converter"
There are quite a few of these on the market with prices all over the map

Looks like you already have speakers but another good way to go is to connect the TV to a "A/V Receiver" and then let the receiver drive a set of passive speakers. The receive would have a digital input and lots more functionality than the simple d/A converter. But does add one more remote control to your system

 

[mgpg89]

Probably depends on tv, but you might see if the TV's optical out is a pure digital line out that can be connected to an external dac, which then can be fed to the speakers if they have their own amp. You can also control volume with the headphone port, but you'd just need a preamp. This is all assuming the soundsticks have their own amp.

Can you point me in the direction of a cheap preamp? Don't really know what I'm looking for.

 

[EvilC5]

you could do a audioengine D1, optical from the ATV to the D1, then the headphone jack to the HK's. the only downside would be the volume control would have to be from the D1 or from the speakers.

 

[Destroysall]

Hmm...well there is this, it will help connect to a DAC. I believe the Audioengine D1's volume knob can control the volume on the speakers.

 

[EvilC5]

Hmm...well there is this, it will help connect to a DAC. I believe the Audioengine D1's volume knob can control the volume on the speakers.

it can, but if you have to get up to adjust it, it might be a pain.

 

[mgpg89]

Are there any cheap remote-controlled preamps?