How to convert TV optical output to XLR

Many TVs, including Panasonics, don't even allow to choose PCM, outputting automatically Dolby for ATSC and PCM for NTSC. I bought Samsung LED TV because of that - it has choice in the menu for PCM or Dolby output.

Thank you very much for the above information. This TV digital output was new to me. I am reviewing my options.

I just got a Samsung smart TV. Digital audio out is optical. Menu came set a PCM. There were other options but I didn't care at that point. Purchased a doo-dad that converts optical to coax and plugged it into a Tascam DA-30 MK2 Dat deck. Works like a charm. Way better than the analog output of my cable box.

Whoops. I made a mistake. If you ask enough questions, someone will give you the right answer. The correct answer is not to use the TV for audio.

I was told to run the RCA audio cable from my cable box to my Ayre RCA inputs (and bypass my TV) and run balanced cables from my Oppo 105 to the XLR inputs on my Ayre. My cable problem is solved and will result in much better sound by not running audio through my TV and then to my amplifier.

I select one input for TV listening and a 2nd input when listening thru the Oppo 105. My problem is solved. Thank you very much.

Today, I also ordered a new Astound cable box with Tivo scheduled for installation on May 4th. The new Astound (ISP) cable box will enable me to correct the "incorrect wiring" of my Pioneer TV, Ayre AX-7e amplifier and Oppo Blu-Ray player.

I will be using a HDMI cable from the cable box to the Pioneer TV and my WireWorld Silver Eclipse 7 interconnect cable from the cable box to my Ayre amplifier. The Oppo Blu-Ray player audio will also be connected to my Ayre AX-7e amplifier for audio and HDMI cable to the TV. In addition, the new cable box with Tivo will give me more options including recording on one TV and listening on my 2nd TV.

The Tivo Mini box (used for 2nd TV Set) will have a MoCA Adapter that will enable it to connect to the internet using the coaxial cable and not an Ethernet connection. These changes should result in better flexibility, sound and picture quality.