AVF Optical cables

Discover our range of AVF Optical cables

AVF optical cables provide a clean digital audio link between your TV and a soundbar or receiver. Often called Toslink, these fibre optic leads transmit light rather than electrical signals, which helps avoid the hums and buzzes that can creep into copper runs in busy living rooms. The result is a clear, dependable connection that just works for everyday film nights and sport.

Optical is a good option when you want simple, electrically isolated audio. Many TVs still include an optical output for this reason, and many soundbars accept it as an alternative to HDMI. Right-angle or low-profile plugs are useful behind tight wall mounts, while short lengths keep sideboards tidy. If your TV and soundbar both support audio return over HDMI, that is also a fine choice, however optical remains popular for its reliability and ease of routing.

Choosing a cable is mostly about length and build. Pick the shortest run that reaches comfortably, avoid tight bends, and protect the tiny lens within the connector caps until you are ready to plug in. AVF cables use tough outer jackets and snug moulded plugs, so they seat firmly without wobble. Installation is straightforward, and once connected you select the optical input on the soundbar and the digital audio output in the TV's sound menu.

You can find several lengths and connector styles at Currys to match your layout. Pricing varies by retailer and region, so select based on routing and how your hardware is arranged rather than any exotic claims. For most homes, a well-made optical lead is a set-and-forget choice.

Use-case tip: if you are adding a soundbar to a bedroom TV with limited HDMI ports, the optical output frees those inputs for sticks and consoles.

When should I use optical instead of HDMI?

Use optical when you want a simple, interference-resistant audio link or when HDMI inputs are already occupied. HDMI ARC or eARC is also fine if both devices support it.

How long can an optical cable be?

Shorter is better for reliability. Typical living-room runs are well within what an optical cable can handle, so pick the neatest length that avoids strain.

Can an optical cable carry surround sound?

It can carry the multichannel formats supported by your TV and soundbar over optical. Check both devices for the formats they accept.

Do right-angle optical plugs affect quality?

No, a quality right-angle plug is about fit, not fidelity. It helps in tight spaces without changing the digital audio.