Your computer handles audio in two main stages: (digital data) and Playback (analog sound waves).
For most PC users, the audio journey begins and ends with the green 3.5mm jack on the back of their computer. However, tucked away in the Windows sound settings is another option: (usually optical/SPDIF or HDMI). realtek digital output better
works differently. It bypasses the computer’s internal DAC. Instead of converting the signal to analog inside the PC, it sends the raw, untouched digital data straight out of the PC—usually via an optical (Toslink) cable or a coaxial cable. Your computer handles audio in two main stages:
If you route your audio through a dedicated desktop DAC before it reaches your headphones, sending a clean, unaltered digital signal ensures the highest possible fidelity. When Standard "Speakers" Is Better works differently
Realtek is the dominant manufacturer of onboard audio chips (codecs) on PC motherboards. When you use the green, orange, or black 3.5mm jacks, you are using . This means the Realtek chip on your motherboard converts the digital audio signal (0s and 1s) from your computer into an analog electrical signal (a sound wave) that speakers or headphones can understand.
Enhancements alter the digital bitstream before it leaves your PC. For a pure output, you want the external device (AVR or DAC) to handle all processing, not Realtek’s cheap DSP.