Thread: PC audio for dummies

Agreed as well, definitely need on amp. All computer speakers have in-built amps, so you might be able to rip one out of an old set of them. Just make sure all the Ohm specs match up.

JD

so,,
one of these


or a cheap sound card?
both around $40,,

To me it sounds like the sound card still works in the computer, so just an amp should do. You've just got to make sure the amp is powerful enough for the speakers. If the Speakers can handle 90 Watts each, pumping 15 watts into them will be a bit disappointing. For example the alpine setup I have for the 110 has two speakers, each can handle about 110 watts, and the headunit can put out 200watts. Haven't got it fitted yet, but should have about twice the power as those tin foil standard underdash speakers.

JD

You do realize that the claimed 200w is PMPO right? Or it's 4x50w.

Do the speakers have a power supply?

A lot of external pc speakers plug into the wall as well, as that is where the amp is...

no, they are unpowered.

Get yourself a set of powered speakers which plug into the green 'Headphone' socket of your motherboard/sound card.
Mine are Logitechs with total power consumption (from the 240 socket) of 9.6 watts.
In real terms this gives you around 3 watts per channel. From memory, around $40.

Plenty loud for computer use, and more than half-volume gets me into trouble...

The next best step upwards will be around $60+ which is still cheaper than a powered sound card...

Hi Pedro, don't worry about computer amps and speakers. They are not what you want for a stereo. Small speakers and under powered.
Go to you local "Cash Converters" store or similar and get a second hand stereo amplifier and some good old, bigger stereo speakers . Come from the line out socket on the computer to the inputs of the amp. and you will have enough wattage to have a disco in the caravan if you wish.
If you want a stereo in the caravan you need stereo components .Don't worry if the stuff is a few years old it'll still sound fantastic and pump out the decibels!!
Got my computer set up through a NAD amp. and large stereo speakers and youtube really rocks!!!
Cheers, Peter.