OK...

1. The optical cable just carries the bits. The decoding on DVD-A and SACD is done by the player and is outputted on the 5.1 analog outputs. The DTS and DD from a DVD-V are carried over digital. The DTS on a DTS CD is carried over digital. Me get confused and forget stuff. *smack*

2. The optical cable does not carry the analog signal.

3. The CD player would be fine. An SACD player or DVD-A player would not be fine.

Sorry for my stupid reply above... wasn't thinking...

I am the Doctor, and THIS... is my SPOON!