To connect an optical audio cable to a TV that lacks an optical (Toslink/SPDIF) port, you will need to use an audio converter or an alternative connection method depending on the ports your TV does have.
You'll need to use old school RCA cables, red and white, to connect from the TV to the converter. The converter will then output a digital optical signal that you can connect to your soundbar.
The short answer is yes, but to use both, your equipment must be able to support the two. Take note, there has to be an HDMI port and an Optical audio input on your A/V device. When using optical and HDMI simultaneously, set it up properly so the HDMI will carry video signals, while the other carries the audio.
Not all TVs have optical output ports. While most modern TVs include this feature, older models may lack optical audio support. Check your TV's specifications to confirm.
HDMI ARC provides better sound quality, supports more audio formats, and simplifies audio transmission with a single HDMI cable. Optical cables, while still reliable, lack support for uncompressed audio and require a separate cable for video.
There are several ways to connect external audio to your TV. One of the popular ways is to use an optical cable that can send high-quality audio.
Wired connections offer a reliable and straightforward way to link your TV to external speakers. Before diving into the specific methods, it's crucial to identify the available audio outputs on your TV. Common options include RCA, HDMI, Optical, and 3.5mm analog ports.
You're in luck — all you need is a single HDMI cable to connect your TV and soundbar enabled with Dolby Atmos (HDMI 2.0 for ARC should do the trick while HDMI 2.1 is necessary for eARC setups). This is the simplest option and will send audio directly from your TV to your soundbar.
If the TV has no ARC label on its HDMI ports, connect the HDMI cable to any HDMI ports on the TV and to the HDMI OUT (ARC) on the home theatre system or home audio system. Then connect an optical cable to the optical output port of the TV and the DIGITAL IN (TV) port on the home theatre system or home audio system.
Connect the devices using an Analog audio cable:
Method 1. Connect with an HDMI cable
Most modern smart TVs have an optical port. An analog connection uses the red and white RCA cables or a 3.5mm headphone jack. This is also a great option and is common on both new and older TVs. For the best possible audio quality, we recommend using the digital optical connection if your TV has one.
Compared to optical cables, aux cables are far more prone to interference from other devices: according to Orbitsound, a reputable source of information for audio information, aux cables are more prone to interference because "electrical sources, like your mains power, can distort the signal.
Connection steps
Connect the optical cable to the A/V Receiver or Soundbar optical input jack. Attach the Digital audio adapter (supplied) to the other end of the optical cable and connect it to the Optical Audio Out jack on the TV. Connect the HDMI cable to the A/V Receiver or Soundbar and then to the A95L TV.
Plug Your Optical Audio Cable into Your TV
Then, simply connect your optical audio cable to your TV's optical output (on the back). Be sure to line up the shape of your cable's connector with your device's input, but don't force it! Once the two line up correctly, inserting your cable should be seamless.
Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply looking to enhance your audio experience, the HDMI to Optical Converter is a must-have accessory for any modern home.
In conclusion, TVs typically feature digital audio output ports, such as optical and coaxial, which provide high-quality sound transmission. Additionally, analog audio output ports like RCA and 3.5mm AUX are widely used for connecting speakers and headphones.
Although Optical cables are still compatible with some devices today, they are mostly older devices that are not commonly used. In modern times, most devices are built to be HDMI compatible instead, this gives the newer cable the edge over Optical cables when it comes to compatibility.
If you want better sound quality, advanced-quality audio formats, and fewer cables, HDMI ARC is the best option. It supports Dolby Atmos and uncompressed surround sound and enables a single HDMI cable to manage both audio and video.
Generally most TVs will let you chose either Optical or HDMI ARC as an output and not both. The best way to check would be either: the TV settings, the TV Manual, or contacting Samsung directly and checking with them.