Digital Audio Output PCM or RAW | What Should Choose?

If you are looking for a suggestion regarding digital audio output then this article is going to be the right path for you. While using a device for entertainment purposes, you will always look for better sound quality. In a device (e.g., TV, DVD player, CD player, game station, etc.) you can find different kinds of audio output options namely PCM, BITSTREAM, Dolby Digital, etc.

If you do not have sound knowledge about them, then it will be hard to choose. We will assist you to learn about PCM audio output and RAW audio output and which one you should use on your device.

So, let’s hop in and find out which digital audio output is better.

What is PCM & RAW?

In this modern era, you can find out too many audio options for digital devices like TV, Video players, etc. One of the key things about these devices is the audio system. You can use either PCM or RAW as your digital audio output.

PCM or Pulse Code Modulation is used for PCM stereo. PCM converts analog information into a binary value. It’s basically used in HDMI cable-connected audio devices. It supports both analog and digital transmissions.

RAW digital audio output is called Bitstream or Source Code. RAW audio output is a non-decoder, which means it will give you the raw sound. RAW is preferred for a higher-quality sound receiver device.

Digital Audio Output PCM or RAW | Differences Between them

PCM and RAW, both are different from each other. You can see several differences between these two digital audio outputs. Such as,

PCM	RAW
Decodes sound by itself. Convenient for two channels. Only used for PCM stereo.PCM is preferred for a lower-quality sound receiver device.	Non-decoder audio output system.Convenient for more than two channels. Dolby Digital, Digital Theater System, or PCM stereo passes through RAW.

PCM or RAW? Which One is Better for You and Why?

Actually, it depends on your device. If you have a good receiver then you can go for RAW but if you have a medium receiver then you should use PCM. There are several facts too. Let’s see now.

When and Why, You Should Use PCM?

You should go for PCM digital audio output when you are using your multimedia device without any external speakers or headsets. This audio output gets the sound direct from the console (e.g., blue ray, DVD, cd, etc.). You will get better sound quality compared to RAW digital audio output.

Pros of PCM Digital Audio Output

• Better for Secondary audio feature.
• Less pressure on the receiver as it needs to work less.
• Sound decodes in the multimedia player.
• The good sound quality in default speakers.

Cons of PCM Digital Audio Output

• Provide good sounds for only two-channel digital.
• Multimedia players need to work more.
• Sound quality dropped when using external speakers.

Pros of RAW Digital Audio Output

• It sends an encoded 5.1 signal.
• Higher quality sound while using an external sound system.
• Audio is decoded by the home receiver.

Cons of RAW Digital Audio Output

• Lower sound in the internal player sound system.
• Need a high-quality receiver.
• The receiver needs to work more.

So, after analyzing all this detail, you can choose the right audio output system. If you want to use only system sound then you can go for PCM or if you want to use an external audio system then you should go for RAW.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Is PCM audio better?

If you are considering a stereo sound system then PCM audio is better. It has left and right stereo channels. If you are using a TV connecting CD/DVD then PCM is best without any doubt.

What is the best digital output audio format?

Actually, it depends on you and which device you are using. If you are using only the TV’s sound system then PCM digital audio is the best option to choose and if you are using an external sound system then you should go for RAW digital audio to get better sound.

Conclusion

Both the digital audio is best from their perspective but they come with some tiny differences when using an internal or external sound system. You can choose according to your device’s sound system.

Hope that you now get to know which is best for you and choose the best one for your sound experience. If you do have any questions, feel free to comment below and let us know. Gracias.