Amplifier to Computer?

d3moliti0n · 11 Apr 2010 at 14:03

Hi

I was just wondering, can I connect the amplifier (that I use with my turntable) to my computer, so I can get sound coming out of my main speakers? If so, how do I go about doing this?

My amplifier is pretty old now I guess, it's a Rotel RA-820AX. Also, do I need a dedicated sound card for this or is it still possible with the onboard sound?

Possibly a stupid/newbie question but I'm not sure if I can do it and if I can, how to actually go about the process.

Thanks for your help.

d3moliti0n · 11 Apr 2010 at 14:09

Ok, just answered my own question, I need an RCA to mini jack cable.

Corasik · 11 Apr 2010 at 22:47

You may find 2 things crop up, Firstly windows tends to wind up the volume too high for many Amps line inputs which are designed for 2V outputs from CD players etc. PC soundcards can push as much as 4V like car stereo equipment. So keep the output from the PC turned down and use the volume on the amp as much as you like. Secondly some PC motherboards and soundcards dont have a very well set DC 0v, so you can get a pop/crackle if you turn the PC on or off when the amp is turned on. I prefer to have my amp turned off when I turn the PC on or off.

Quite a few motherboards (and soundcards) have a digital output (sp/dif), you can use that in conjuction with an external dac (such as the DacMagic) which will give a much cleaner analog output, with proper 2V maximum outputs. Not saying you "NEED" a dac, but the results are often worthwhile.

Yabsley · 12 Apr 2010 at 15:54

What is the best way to connect your stereo speakers to your PC? I've been wondering about this as currently I use the method d3moliti0n describes above with the RCA to mini jack cable. I have the speakers connected to the amp and the amp plugged into onboard sound on my computer. The amp is only ever used with the computer so is there a smaller/better way to connect the speakers to the PC without the need for an amp? I'm thinking of doing away with the amp if I can.

Guest2 · 13 Apr 2010 at 15:44

I have my Xonar Essence soundcard hooked up to my Nad amp through a Cambridge Audio dual phono > dual phono lead. Then speakers as usual from from amp. The DAC used in the Essence is apparently comparible with a Beresford Caiman

My soundcard clicks when it turns on but thats the relays or something and happens in any half decent amp when turned on. My Marantz used to do it as does my Nad