scope:

This standard describes a serial, uni-directional, self-clocking interface for the interconnection of digital audio equipment for consumer and professional applications. When used in a consumer digital processing environment, the interface is primarily intended to carry stereophonic programmes, with a resolution of up to 20 bits per sample, an extension to 24 bits per sample being possible. When used in a broadcasting studio environment, the interface is primarily intended to carry monophonic or stereophonic programmes, at a 48 kHz sampling frequency and with a resolution of up to 24 bits per sample; it may alternatively be used to carry one or two signals sampled at 32 kHz. In both cases, the clock references and auxiliary information are transmitted along with the programme. Provision is also made to allow the interface to carry data related to computer software.