Can Xbox Series S Use Optical Audio Like Older Consoles

This guide answers whether the Xbox Series S features an optical audio port like legacy consoles and how it compares to the Xbox Series X. The overview confirms that neither current-generation Xbox console supports direct optical cable connections, requiring users to utilize HDMI-based audio solutions instead.

Hardware Port Comparison

When upgrading from previous generations, many gamers expect familiar connectivity options to remain standard. However, Microsoft made significant changes to the physical I/O on their latest hardware. Both the Xbox Series S and the Xbox Series X lack a TOSLINK optical audio port. This is a departure from the Xbox One family, including the original Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X, all of which included optical audio outputs for connecting to older soundbars and home theater receivers.

The removal of the optical port on both the Series S and Series X was a deliberate design choice to streamline the hardware and prioritize HDMI 2.1 connectivity. Consequently, there is no difference between the two current consoles regarding optical audio; neither model can output sound via an optical cable directly from the console.

Why Optical Audio Was Removed

The industry has largely shifted toward HDMI as the standard for high-fidelity audio and video transmission. HDMI cables can carry uncompressed multi-channel audio formats that optical cables cannot support, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. By relying exclusively on HDMI, Microsoft ensures that users get the highest quality audio possible through a single cable connection. Optical cables are limited in bandwidth and cannot handle these newer object-based audio formats, making them less suitable for modern gaming experiences.

Alternative Audio Solutions

Since direct optical connection is not possible, users with older audio equipment need to employ workarounds to connect their sound systems. The most common solution is using the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC port on your television. You can connect the Xbox Series S to the TV via HDMI, and then connect your soundbar or receiver to the TV’s optical port using the ARC function. This allows the TV to pass the audio signal from the console to your external speakers.

Another option for audiophiles or those with specific hardware requirements is an HDMI audio extractor. This device sits between the console and the display, splitting the signal to send video to the screen and audio to an optical or 3.5mm output. While this adds an extra component to the setup, it effectively restores optical connectivity for those who cannot rely on their TV’s audio pass-through features. Additionally, many modern gaming headsets connect via USB or the 3.5mm jack on the Xbox controller, bypassing the need for optical connections entirely.

Configuring Audio Settings

To ensure the best sound quality through HDMI, users should adjust their console settings appropriately. Navigate to the Settings menu, select General, and then choose Volume & audio output. Here, you can select the appropriate headphone format or speaker audio format. If you are using a receiver or soundbar via HDMI ARC, ensure that the bitstream out options are enabled to allow your external hardware to decode formats like Dolby Digital or Dolby Atmos. Proper configuration ensures that the lack of an optical port does not diminish the audio experience.

Conclusion

The Xbox Series S does not support optical audio output, matching the Xbox Series X in this limitation. While this differs from older consoles like the Xbox One, the shift to HDMI-only audio supports higher quality sound formats. By utilizing TV ARC ports or HDMI audio extractors, players can still integrate their existing audio equipment into their next-gen gaming setup without issue.