Headphone jack vs. Line out ??

Hi,

As you can tell from the question below I don't know very much about
computer audio, but would appreciate an answer very much.

When I want to connect my laptop to my HIFI's line in plug (3.5mm
plug), what is the difference between using the Headphone jack and the
Line Out on the computer? I get sound from both.

/p

On Sat, 06 Nov 2004 16:37:50 +0100, Dutronc wrote:

When I want to connect my laptop to my HIFI's line in plug (3.5mm plug),
what is the difference between using the Headphone jack and the Line Out
on the computer? I get sound from both.

My understanding is that the headphone jack's output is pre-amplified (and
usually volume-controlled) - suitable for driving small speakers. Line-out
is not pre-amped, and is suitable for connection to amplifying devices.
Theoretically, there is less quality degradation involved with line-level
output (mileage varies depending on the device, I guess). I would
reccommend taking a hint from the terminology, and connect line out -
line in.

Cheers,
Minderbinder.