A music center is an excellent means of playing audio, but its intended use is not particularly relevant today. This situation can be corrected by connecting the existing speaker system to the computer.
Connecting a speaker system to a computer is not much different from a similar process with a home theater or subwoofer. In addition, all the actions described throughout the article will allow you to connect music center not only to a PC, but also to other devices, such as a phone or laptop.
Step 1: Preparation
In order to connect your computer and music center, you will need a cable “3.5 mm jack – RCA x2”, which can be purchased at almost any electronics store. Also, the necessary wire is often included with the speaker system.
Note: If you use a cable with three or more plugs, the sound will be less than normal.
Sometimes a standard cable may have three or more RCA plugs instead of two. In this case, it is better to get the cord mentioned above or remake the existing one.
If you install the required cable yourself, you can use special plugs, the connection of which does not require soldering the contacts. The same can be done with a soldering iron, but then do not forget to insulate and check the contacts for short circuits.
Step 2: Connection
When the necessary components are ready, you can proceed directly to connecting the computer to the music center. Please note that some actions may differ from those described by us during the instructions, since each device is unique in its own way.
When connecting the speaker system and computer, you must adhere to safety rules. And although incorrect actions do not pose a physical threat, this may damage your sound card or stereo system.
Step 3: Check
After completing the connection of the music center, you can check the functionality of the connection by simply turning on the music on the computer. For these purposes, use one of the music players or special sites on the Internet.
An article about options for connecting speakers through an amplifier to Windows computer 7, 10.
Navigation
It is clear that you can connect speakers to your computer. Then why use an amplifier? Name "Amplifier" speaks for itself to enhance the sound, make it clearer, better quality, with a stereo effect. Amplifier gives additional power effect and removes distortion.
Amplifier and speakers
The device has specialized terminals for connecting to a computer, and latest models There is USB- entrance.
USB – computer input
Connection diagram of the amplifier to the computer
Option #1
- turn on both devices: amplifier and desktop computer.
- Identify the audio terminals on the computer, connect the stereo plug (3.5mm) to them.
Audio connectors on the computer (audio terminals)
- distribute the audio plugs on the rear panel of the amplifier device.
Amplifier audio connector panel
- connect the audio terminals of the computer to the terminals of the amplifier using plugs.
- Please connect the two devices according to the names of the connection terminals. For example, terminal RCA computer to a similar terminal of the amplifier using a plug, and the second output of the plug to another pair terminal.
Connecting two devices according to the names of the connection terminals
- connect the amplifier to the network by setting the adapter switch to the position "AUX"
Amplifier. Setting the transition toggle switch to the “AUX” position
- connect your computer to the network.
- define option "Speaker" in the computer settings.
Defining the "Speaker" option in computer settings
- set option "Application" And "Device" in approximately the same position.
- start the player device, turn on the sound.
- The connection is complete, subject to sounds coming from the speaker.
- adjust the volume control on your stereo amplifier.
Option No. 2
- turn on both devices.
- connect one end USB cable with similar ( USB) computer input.
USB cable, computer USB connector
- connect the second connector USB cable with USB amplifier input.
- turn on both devices together.
- activate the icon "Speaker" on the computer.
Speaker icon on computer
- activate the key "Playback Devices"
Playback Devices key enabled
- find the option "Amplifier" in the window that opens, turn on the sound.
Unmute sound
- set option "Application" And "Device", approximately in the same position.
- check the sound by turning on the player. The speakers (speakers) must produce sound.
- adjust the volume control on the amplifier.
The question is often asked whether it is possible connecting speakers to a computer without an amplifier?
Theoretically, yes. However, the sound will be of poor quality, quiet, with interference, because the output power of the speakers will not be enough for normal sound.
Below, we will tell you how to properly connect the speakers to the computer via an amplifier.
Connecting speakers via an amplifier to a Windows 7 desktop computer
It was said above that the plug for connecting speakers to the amplifier is usually two wired. Modern amplification devices have markings for connection.
- set the number of inputs/outputs on the computer system board. If there are six input-output terminals, a purchase is required sound card from the developer's website
Computer input/output terminals
- We connect the output terminals of the computer to the inputs of the sound system, according to the instructions.
- configure the computer by activating the option "Control Panel".
Control Panel
- press the key "Sound Effects Manager"
Sound Effects Manager
- select any of the options: « Stereo", "Quadraphonic", "5.1" or "7.1".
Options: Stereo, Quad, 5.1 or 7.1
- configure the option "Sound Effects"(optional) by going to the menu "Equalizer", selecting timbre, sound in accordance with the use of a CD, music studio, DVD.
Selecting sound effects
- press the key “Confirm” (Ok)(connection confirmation).
On the latest computer models you can see a terminal for digital audio ( SPDIF).
Appearance of the SPDIF connector and switching cable
This connector has an optical connection, therefore high quality, absence of interference, noise, low level of background sound. When using the digital audio terminal ( SPDIF), the audio system (speakers) must have a special surround sound decoder.
If your sound system has a standard jack RCA, then you can connect the speakers as indicated above (without a decoder)
Connecting speakers via an amplifier to a Windows 10 desktop computer
The latest developments in computers on the platform Windows 10 have a lot of advantages, however, the sound needs to be adjusted even when installing sound amplifiers.
Scheme:
Option #1
- turn on your computer.
- login with right mouse button to option "Sound".
Setting the Sound option
- select option "Playback Devices" from the menu.
- select submenu "Columns", activate it by double clicking.
- view the menu that opens "Properties".
Properties menu
- press the key "Additional settings".
Additional settings
- select line 2 4bit/44100 Hz.
Line 24bit/44100 Hz
- sound is set.
Option No. 2
- log in to the menu "Start".
- press the key "Device Manager", enter it into the activity.
- enter the menu "Sound".
Sound menu
- then to the menu "Audio Devices"
“Sound” menu, “Audio devices” submenu
- press the key "Search for devices", the connection will be established automatically.
Device search page
As a last resort, if the sound does not work, i.e. the speakers are not connected, you should install a sound card for the system Windows 10 using the manufacturer's website.
We looked at different options for connecting speakers to a computer with and without an amplifier, as well as options for connecting to computers of different platforms Windows.
Video: How to connect speakers to a computer?
It seems that music centers are finally reaching their end of life. But it’s a shame to send high-quality and rather expensive equipment to the trash heap. Therefore, we will try to find an alternative use for it.
Is it possible to connect speakers from a music center to a computer?
Is it possible to connect speakers from a music center to a computer? Of course Yes. If the musical unit itself is still alive, this will not be difficult at all. We only need one cable, which looks something like this:
On one side of the cable hangs the familiar 3.5 mm minijack, and the other is topped with two tulips. By the way, You can make this cable yourself, if your hands know how to hold a soldering iron. To do this, you will need the cable itself (a stereo headphone cord is ideal) and plugs, which can be bought at any radio parts store or on the market. Cheap and cheerful.
The cable must be connected to the AUX connector on the rear panel of the music center. These are two identical holes, red and white. For clarity, here it is:
Second end of the wire plug it into the speaker output in your PC (in a round hole with a green rim). And that's almost all. Next you need to turn on the music center and select AUX mode on it. This setting is different for each individual center, so look for instructions or try the “scientific poke” method.
Now you know how to connect speakers from a music center to a laptop or desktop computer, if the center itself is available. What to do if the center died?
Do we connect speakers from the center without a center?
This is where things get a little more complicated. The fact is that the music center has an amplifier installed, from which the speakers are powered. The power of the sound card in the computer is not enough to drive them. Therefore, the question is how to connect speakers from a music center to a computer without center, is not as simple as we would like.
We'll have to look for an amplifier or make one ourselves. This can be either a separate device or a board from old speakers. The main thing is that the power of the amplifier does not exceed the power of the speakers.
Soldering the amplifier yourself is also possible not the most difficult task. The Internet is teeming with ready-made circuits of any complexity, and the necessary parts are usually easy to find on sale. And if you have computer acoustics at home, in which for some reason a couple of speakers do not work, check their power and operating voltage and compare them with the music speakers. center (their characteristics can be found in the instructions or on the back wall of the center). Suitable - you can connect.
As you can see, an old stereo can become a good computer speaker. Go for it!
In recent years, the range of both professional and amateur acoustic systems has expanded significantly. Today you can create a high-quality sound system of two simple speakers connected to the built-in sound card of a personal computer, analog speakers and an active subwoofer, multi-channel digital system connected to a computer, home theater, or regular TV.
The choice is almost limitless, and any of the options will provide very high-quality sound. Accordingly, you have to choose a sound source for your speakers based only on convenience. If you have a computer with a good sound card, you should connect it to it, otherwise, to a TV. One of best selections will, of course, become a music center, which is a complete and balanced acoustic system.
A music center usually consists of a sound source that can play audio recordings from almost any media - from magnetic cassettes to memory cards, high-quality powerful speakers and an active subwoofer. For everything to work correctly, the speakers need to be connected to a sound source. How to assemble all the components into a single whole?
Features of the music center
Many people believe that now, when every home has personal computer or a laptop, or even more than one, the need for such a somewhat archaic device as a music center has disappeared. Now such equipment is perceived roughly as a record player - something needed only by true music connoisseurs who are concerned about some subtle sound parameters that are not needed by amateurs. But is this true?
It is worth noting that music centers differ greatly from each other in their characteristics, and you need to choose one based on what this device will be used for most often. For everyday listening to quiet music, one option is suitable, for throwing parties - another, more powerful one. If you plan to connect a music center to your home theater via an AV receiver, you will need a third equipment option. How can you avoid making a mistake with your choice, so that after connecting the speakers it doesn’t turn out that the result does not live up to expectations at all?
First of all, you need to focus on the size of the system and its type. The size can most often determine the operating power of a device - and the maximum volume already depends on the power. There is no need to connect huge speakers with speakers the size of a plate to the music center if the dimensions of the room are very modest - in this case speaker system It simply will not reveal its full potential, and it will be unreasonably expensive.
The second thing you need to pay attention to is the type of music center, which determines the set of functions of the device. There are only three types:
- Micro is a monoblock music center, the speakers of which do not require connection, as they are built into the design of the sound source. The range of functions of such a device is very modest - usually a microcenter can only boast of CD playback and radio. Its power is low, comparable to a good radio.
- Mini is a larger option, the speakers of which can be separated from the sound source, which in turn has more complete functionality. It can even play music from the built-in storage. In addition, on the device panel you can often find a display that provides information about the tracks being played and shows the graphic equalizer settings. In general, the range of mini music centers is the widest - it includes both amateur and semi-professional models. Accordingly, there may be different options for connecting speakers here.
- Midi is the most powerful, largest and most complete version of the music center. Not only the speakers are separate here - even the sound source itself is divided into separate blocks, each of which is responsible for a specific function. The device can play music not only from disks, cassettes and flash drives, but sometimes even from records. The connection between the speakers and the sound source is the most difficult here and is carried out using professional speaker cables.
Like the dimensions, the type of device must be selected to suit the size of the room. Micro is an excellent choice for listening to music in an apartment, while midi is more suitable for events in large halls and with large audiences, since the power of such devices is very high.
Features of music center speakers
Depending on the type of speaker system, a different number of speakers can be connected to the sound source in the music center. In the simplest versions, there are two speakers, and they are built into the body of the device. In this case, operation of the system is very simple - you just need to plug the equipment into a power outlet, after which you can immediately start listening to music. You don't have to connect anything else.
In more complex, expensive and powerful models The music centers have separate speakers, and their number may vary. Each column, in turn, can be equipped with a different number of emitters - speakers. Their number usually varies from one to three. If there is only one speaker, then it is responsible for playing all audio frequencies. If there is a separate small speaker, then high frequencies are displayed separately. Some models further separate out the low frequencies by using a larger driver. This separation provides better sound clarity.
The simplest speaker option is a stereo pair. It consists of two front speakers, each equipped with one speaker. Each column is responsible for its own channel - left and right. They are responsible for reproducing the entire range of sound frequencies (from 20 to 44000 Hz), which cannot be done without distortion, so the sound quality in simple music centers is reduced. In more complex models, the sound is divided into frequency zones, each of which is reproduced by a separate speaker.
To reproduce the lowest frequencies, a single speaker is used - a subwoofer. It is equipped with a very large speaker - the sound quality depends on its diameter. The bass reflex - a cylindrical tube in the body of the low-frequency speaker - helps improve the sound even more.
The number of speakers is always indicated in the instructions for the music center. The number of channels is also indicated there, described by an index made up of two numbers: the first means the number of broadband channels, the second means the number of low-frequency channels. Indexes range from 2.0 (stereo) to 7.1 (surround).
But you can't go far with speakers alone. One of the main advantages of using a music center to play music - its self-sufficiency - is ensured by a set of essential parts:
- an audio decoder that converts information on the media into sound;
- sound processor - analogous to a sound card in a computer;
- an equalizer that allows you to adjust the sound - equalize frequencies.
Connecting speakers
The speakers are connected to the music center in a standard, very simple way - using speaker wires with terminals. Worth a closer look back panel sound source in the music center.
The following connectors can be found on it:
- for connecting AC cable;
- for connecting a subwoofer;
- socket for FM antenna;
- screws for connecting terminals - plus and minus.
The same screws or clamps can be found on speakers. It's simple - connect the wires to the terminals, observing the polarity, and the music will start playing. Thanks to the versatility of the connections, you can easily replace the speakers from the kit with any others that suit the parameters. The output impedance in Ohms is indicated next to the terminal screws and should match the speaker impedance of the speakers you are using.
Sometimes you can also find RCA connectors labeled “Line In” or “Input” - they are designed to introduce audio information into the music center. For example, for recording sound or karaoke.
Many users are wondering how to connect a music center to a computer. This is due to the fact that the acoustic system itself is practically of no value today. After all, to listen to songs on the center you need to use disk or flash drive. A computer connected to the Internet allows you to listen to any music and watch movies. The musical device in this circuit will be an excellent conductor for sounds.
It is also interesting that with the help of the center you can enjoy full-fledged radio broadcasts without using headphones. And the speakers of a musical device are, for the most part, much better than many speakers.
Connecting a music center to a computer should start with purchasing a cord. This wire is popularly called tulip, since it has branching similar to a flower:
- It is used to transmit sound from one source to another. You can purchase it at an electronics or radio store.
- For purchase network cable you need to know the brand and model of your devices (both a computer and a music center), since different equipment requires plugs of different diameters.
- Do not listen to those who advise connecting the speakers from the music center to the computer directly. This way you can short-circuit all the wiring and damage not only the speakers, but also the PC itself.
When choosing a cord in a store, make sure that it is of normal length. Remember how far your acoustic monster is from the computer, and estimate how much cable footage you need.
Connection instructions
Please note that this wire can be used to connect both a laptop and a desktop computer to the music center. Both there and there it is necessary to use special plug, which is commonly called “jack”:
- So, after we have sorted out the purchase of the wire, we carefully take it out of the packaging and straighten it. Working with a twisted cord is completely inconvenient.
- Now we insert one end of the cable into the connector on the music center. Depending on the manufacturer, the entrance may be located in different places. Carefully inspect the device to find it.
- We connect the second end of the cord to the computer. This plug will be a standard size so you can figure it out easily.
- To connect the speaker to the computer, on the rear panel system unit you need to find a headphone input. This is where our “jack” is inserted. Once you insert the cable into the socket, the system will turn off automatically.
- After this, you need to configure the music center. In order for the sound to start playing through it, you should select the “aux” item in the settings. The same option is used to transmit sound when connecting the device to a TV. Aux mode allows you to redirect audio from one device to another.
Another thing worth knowing is that when purchasing a tulip you will be offered models with gold plating. It is believed that they convey sound better. This is true, but it’s almost impossible to notice such a difference at home. To do this, you will have to connect the cord to professional equipment.
Making a tulip with your own hands
Adapters for connecting one equipment to another are quite inexpensive. But there are situations when you don't want to go to the store or you just like to tinker with electronics. In this case, you can make a cable to connect the computer and the music center yourself. To do this, perform the following manipulations:
- Take a regular headphone wire with a standard plug and remove the insulation from it.
- After this, you need to twist the copper wires into a tight bundle.
- Now we wind one end of the wire to the audio input. Of course, it is best to solder the parts.
- Next, the contacts at the center and the other end of the wire are connected.
- After this, we connect the metal and plastic parts using electrical tape.
- This cord can be connected not only to a computer, but also to a phone or tablet.
Of course, such a system is imperfect and its implementation will require a lot of material that is difficult to find in the home of an ordinary person. Therefore, it is easier to buy a cable.
When using a headphone cord, you should arm yourself with a lighter and singe the ends of the wire. This way you will remove the insulation and get rid of unnecessary hairs that will interfere with your work.
Conclusion
Using a music center as speakers for a computer is very reasonable and practical. Firstly, the device’s speakers convey sound much better than most computer speakers, and secondly, in this case your center will not gather dust on a shelf. After all, with the advent of the Internet, listening to music on discs has become no longer practical.