analog vs. digital output writers.

[NiteLite]

My CD and DVD writers have always used an analog output. I picked the parts I wanted and had a tech shop case it together in 2002. MSI KT3 Ultra (VIA KT333 Chipset based) motherboard.
I just noticed a new DVD writer I am considering buying only has "digital" out.
I never considered this until now. Will the digital out writer not work with my setup? And what would be required to be compatible if newer writers start only using digital outputs?
Thanks for any help.
NL.

[redwudz]

DVD RWs don't use audio out when playing a DVD. Their audio comes over the IDE cable. The audio out is for CDs mostly. You don't even need to use an audio cable at all if you are just using DVDs with the drive.

EDIT: You would need a digital in on your audio card or built in digital audio on the motherboard for CD digital audio. Or just get a DVD ROM or CD-RW that still uses analog audio out.

[greymalkin]

if you're using winxp it sends everything over ide...the analog out is a thing of the past.

[NiteLite]

Hey thanks for the info, guys
I use win98se. So with my current setup (using win98se) and current motherboard I can rip and burn DVDs but not CDs?
So if I purchase the DVD writer with the digital out only would I just not hook it up to the digital out of the writer? Or am I not understanding?
I would use the writer for playing and backing up DVDs. So am I compatible with that or need to upgrade MB? Or only need to upgrade if I play CDs?
Sorry I'm still confused. (always something new to learn).
I really appreciate your time with this.
NL

[redwudz]

You don't need any audio connections for DVD burners/players. A digital audio connection would only work with a digital input sound card and if you are playing a CD.

CDs use the audio out connections for playing CD sound. Either the digital or the analog audio output from the player/burner. CD audio input to the burner is over the IDE cable.

So, if you don't need to play CDs with the burners, you don't need any audio cables.

[NiteLite]

redwudz,
Thanks for the confirmation!
I was looking at the coming BenQ 1650 and noticed the reviews at Newegg which some complained about the 1655 having "only" digital out. It caught my eye. Anyway looks like I'm ok with that for DVDs. I guess my 3 yr old computer is becoming obsolete.
The computer shop I used packed up and left town so we are w/o any support in my area at the moment. So much thanks for your help and time.
NL