Coaxial to RCA require converter?

[Stridulent]

I know this is probably a stupid question but I have googled relentlessly for an answer.

Basically, I am trying to output from my computer via spdif coaxial then split that to the RCA red/white (basic splitter) to a very old receiver that only has RCA inputs. Just trying to get some surround sound for my computer. Is this possible? Or do I have to buy some sort of converter? Right now I am getting a lot of static and can slightly hear the music.

[Big Daddy]

Originally Posted by Stridulent

I know this is probably a stupid question but I have googled relentlessly for an answer.

Basically, I am trying to output from my computer via spdif coaxial then split that to the RCA red/white (basic splitter) to a very old receiver that only has RCA inputs. Just trying to get some surround sound for my computer. Is this possible? Or do I have to buy some sort of converter? Right now I am getting a lot of static and can slightly hear the music.

Coaxial SPDIF outputs digital signals. Red and white RCA are analog. You need a digital to analog converter. There are some high-end D/A converters, but these are some inexpensive models:

http://www.amazon.com/Gefen-GTV-DD-2.../dp/B0021QBIBQ
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Audio-...6977038&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/Menotek-Digita...6977038&sr=1-6
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Optica...977038&sr=1-15
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-to-Ana...977038&sr=1-20
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Optica...977231&sr=1-27

[Stridulent]

Thanks for that great response. I'd probably be better off just buying a new system.