MuxLab 500087 - Bidirectional SPDIF Coaxial and Optical Toslink Digital Audio Converter
The MuxLab 500087 is a professional and versatile solution designed to resolve incompatibility issues in digital audio systems. This device acts as a high-performance bridge between the two most common connection standards on the market: S/PDIF Coaxial (RCA) and Optical Toslink . Whether you need to connect a next-generation game console to an older AV receiver or integrate studio equipment with different interfaces, this converter guarantees flawless signal transmission without any loss of quality.
Unlike simple one-way converters, the MuxLab 500087 is bidirectional and features a selector switch that allows the user to choose the input source (coaxial or optical). One of its most outstanding features is its simultaneous output capability: regardless of the selected input, the audio signal is transmitted simultaneously through both outputs (optical and coaxial). This allows the device to be used not only as a converter, but also as a signal splitter or digital audio repeater, facilitating the distribution of sound to two different systems at once.
Its compact and robust design makes it ideal for hidden installations or confined spaces in equipment racks. It supports a wide range of audio formats, from uncompressed stereo to multichannel surround sound, ensuring that the listening experience remains faithful to the original source. It is the ultimate tool for system integrators, audiophiles, and professionals seeking reliability and flexibility in digital signal management.
Main features
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Flexible Bidirectional Conversion: Converts Optical to Coaxial or Coaxial to Optical signals with the simple flick of a switch, eliminating the need for multiple devices for different directions.
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Simultaneous Outputs: The incoming audio signal is distributed to both outputs (S/PDIF and Toslink) at the same time, allowing two different receivers or amplifiers to be powered simultaneously.
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High Fidelity Audio Support: Compatible with uncompressed 2-channel LPCM and compressed surround sound formats such as Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby TrueHD.
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High Sampling Rate: Supports sampling rates up to 96 kHz and 24-bit resolutions, guaranteeing studio quality.
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Plug and Play: No driver or software installation required; simply connect the source, select the input and enjoy the audio.
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Compact and Lightweight Design: Its small dimensions (60x60x25 mm) allow for discreet integration behind televisions or in equipment trays.
Product benefits
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Installation Versatility: Allows you to connect equipment that does not share the same type of digital port, extending the lifespan of legacy AV receivers and amplifiers.
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Improved Transmission Distance: By converting a coaxial signal to optical, you can take advantage of the ability of fiber optics to transmit audio over greater distances without the electromagnetic interference typical of copper cabling.
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Signal Integrity: Being a purely digital converter, it does not introduce noise or analog distortion, maintaining the purity of the original sound.
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All-in-One Solution: Acts as a converter, repeater, and signal distributor in a single compact unit, saving space and costs on additional hardware.
Use cases
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Home Theater Systems: Connect a modern TV with optical output to a vintage soundbar or amplifier that only has coaxial input.
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Recording and Post-Production Studios: Interconnect audio interfaces, mixing consoles, and DAT recorders that use different digital standards.
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Gaming and Leisure: Send audio from a video game console (PS4/PS5/Xbox) to an external sound system and wireless headphones simultaneously.
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Conference Rooms and Auditoriums: Digital audio distribution from a central source to multiple amplification zones with different inputs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does this device convert digital audio to analog (red/white RCA)?
No, this is a digital format converter (from light to electrical and vice versa). If you need an analog output for older stereo speakers, you need a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter).
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Does it work in both directions automatically?
The device is bidirectional, but the selection of the active input is done by means of a manual switch located on the unit.
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Does it support 5.1 or 7.1 sound?
Yes, it supports pass-through of multi-channel compressed formats such as Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1/7.1, provided the receiving device can decode them.
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Does it include the necessary cables?
The product includes an external power supply. Audio cables (optical or coaxial) are usually required separately, depending on the length needed for your installation, although some packages may include a short optical test cable.
Project description
The MuxLab 500087 is a bidirectional digital audio standards converter. It allows selectable conversion between S/PDIF coaxial (RCA) and Toslink optical signals. It features an input selection switch and offers simultaneous output in both formats, functioning as both a converter and splitter. It supports uncompressed 2-channel LPCM audio and compressed bitstream audio (Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby TrueHD) with sampling rates up to 96 kHz and 24 bits. An external 5V DC power supply is included. The compact chassis measures 60 x 60 x 25 mm and weighs only 0.45 kg. It is ideal for integration into professional and home AV systems.
