Realtek Digital Output refers to the SPDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format) port on your motherboard, usually in the form of an Optical (TOSLINK) connector.
: Digital signals are less prone to the "hiss" or signal degradation that can affect long analog cables. When to Stick with "Speakers" (Analog) realtek digital output better
Most users leave "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device" unchecked. This forces all audio (YouTube, Spotify, games) to be mixed by Windows' shared mode, which degrades bit-perfect transmission. A "better" digital output must be bit-perfect. Realtek Digital Output refers to the SPDIF (Sony/Philips
To avoid unintended audio processing, open the Realtek Audio Console and, under the Digital Output settings, ensure all "enhancements," "effects," and "sound equalization" are disabled or turned off. This ensures the audio stream remains unaltered (bit-perfect). This forces all audio (YouTube, Spotify, games) to
If your audio gear has an optical input, using digital output is always better.
User controls (simple):