Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with audio and stereo

New stereo amp to replace my broken one.

misterpatrick — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:28:05 -0800

My amplifier/receiver died. I need something inexpensive (~$200) but powerful to replace it. I am not an audiophile but like my music to sound good. Should I get a simple amplifier and an HD radio tuner or troll eBay for a used receiver? I have two sets of speakers plus woofer and need about 100W per channel. Need three or four inputs. Don't need fancy 5.1 or anything. Recommendations? The receiver I am replacing is a Sony STR-DE525. Worked fine for me but our radio reception isn't great here and the stations we listen to broadcast in HD, so one reason to just get an amp and an HD receiver. My other inputs are the computer (iTunes), cable, DVD player and turntable.

Getting equipped to groove

notashroom — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:21:11 -0800

Please help me choose an inexpensive home stereo for a teenager. I'm overwhelmed! I'm looking for a stereo for my 17-year-old daughter and getting overwhelmed by the options. I remember my audiophile ex teaching me, "No highs, no lows, must be Bose," but I don't know much of anything about brands beyond that.

I'm thinking shelf system, but if components can be done within budget and would be a better choice, I'll do that.

Here are the relevant data points I can think of:

- Budget is about US$200. Less is better, slightly more acceptable if it makes a big difference in quality/durability.

- It would be great if it's something I can order on Amazon. Second choice would be other reliable web sites that will ship to continental U.S. and stay within above budget. Third choice would be retailers like Best Buy.

- Build quality is the most important factor after price, then sound quality.

- Treble quality is more important than bass. She listens to more female artists than male, and more pop, folk, and country than r&b, rock, rap, etc. though there is some of all of those in her collection.

- Prefer clean lines in black, chrome, grey, white, etc., not pink or red or funky designs.

- It should be able to play CD-R as well as regular CDs, and preferably would also handle MP3 CDs. Multiple CDs would be nice, but unnecessary.

- She has no need for a turntable.

- She has an MP3 player (not iPod and not likely to be anytime soon) and it would be good to have a hookup through the headphone jack of the MP3 player to the stereo, and hopefully decent sound through that connection.

- Bluetooth or USB would be nice but is not necessary.

- The ability to hook up her TV and output sound through the stereo would be nice but is unnecessary.

- She's planning to move out next summer, and it's possible that this will be the sole system for her and roommates for a while, so it really should be up to taking some bumps from being moved around, bumped by a clumsy kid, etc.

What do you recommend, and why? Thanks for your help!

My stubby amplifier...

rleamon — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:12:01 -0800

Home amp filter: Shallow cabinet, 5.1-channel, three-input-HDMI, two-zone, good-quality amplifier-receiver -- does it exist? The missus and I just moved into our remodeled house -- the custom bookshelves are only 12" deep, so my 16" deep Denon amp that does most of what I want juts out unacceptably.

Is there such thing as a 13" (or less) deep, 5.1 or better surround, three-input-HDMI amp/receiver, that can play to two or more zones (i.e., 5.1 in the living room and 2 only in the kitchen?).

Help me hook up a new HDTV to an old(ish) stereo receiver?

Dr. Wu — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:03:39 -0800

Can you help me connect my optical-out DVD players to my new HDMI-in HDTV? This is the kind of thing that drives me bananas.

Just got a nice, brand-new Sony HDTV, with several HDMI-in ports. I would like to get the highest resolution I possibly can out of my video components -- generally DVD. In the past, when I had an older, analog TV, I just used the stereo receiver as an A/V switcher, for which purpose it works very well. But now this functionality has been compromised by the new array of input/output jacks.

Here's the setup:
- The two DVD players I have (one "regular" and one multistandard) both have optical-out ports. I have an old laserdisc and an even older VHS player hooked up to the system, too, but I'm not terribly concerned about them right now.

- I have all audio and video components running through a good, but eight-year-old, Sony A/V receiver. LP/tape/VHS/LD are connected via regular old component RCA plugs, which are just fine. The CD player and the two DVD players can connect to the receiver with optical cables -- which I prefer to use whenever I can. They work well and provide good sound.

- The problem is that the new HDTV does not have any optical-in ports. (If it did, I'd just run the sound from the DVD players through the receiver, and the picture, via optical cable, right to the TV. But I can't do this.) It does have composite-in and component-in, but no optical-in. And the receiver has only composite-out.

The receiver I have is a Sony STR-DA 333 ES. The manual, in PDF form, is available on this page; click "primary user manual" and go to Page 5.

The HDTV I have is a Sony Bravia KDL-46VE5. The manual doesn't seem to be online, but you can find the details here by clicking on "Specifications." (The site will not allow me to access that page directly.)

- The upshot of all this (if you're still with me) is that my only current option is to run all video components into the receiver, and thence to the TV via a crappy composite video cable. Which would sort of defeat the purpose of the 1080p set that I just bought. (We don't have any sort of cable, satellite, or other TV, so this new HDTV is really just going to be used as a monitor for movies on the DVD players.)

What I would like to do is get the highest possible resolution (the HDTV can handle 1080p/24f) when I watch DVDs. Is there a simple, inexpensive way to convert the optical signal to HDMI?

I can imagine several options:
1. I find a magical converter device that can handle multiple optical inputs and output HDMI. This device would be a switcher, so I could run optical cables from both DVD players into it, and then a single HDMI cable from the switcher to the HDTV.

2. If it's cheaper, I certainly don't mind eschewing with the idea of the switcher box and just getting two separate optical-to-HDMI cables, one for each DVD player.

HOWEVER: the problem I foresee: What about the audio??
I want to run the audio from the DVD players through my stereo system, which has a nice 5.1 setup. HDMI handles both video and audio, right? So if I choose either option above, will I be locked into using the speakers built into the HDTV? Or would I then just add another cable, so that the setup would look something like this:

DVD optical out --> HDMI cable --> HDMI in to HDTV --> TV audio out --> receiver. (In which case the audio running from the HDTV to the receiver would be component, yes? Which would be a step downwards, yes?)

I am reasonably good with stuff like this, but the age disparity between the new HDTV and the older stereo system is giving me a headache.

What's the best, cheapest, most reliable way for me to get the highest-quality picture from the DVD players onto the TV, and still get the room-shaking audio through the stereo?

Should I just buy a new multistandard, HDMI-out DVD player? If I did, I could connect it right to the HDTV, but I'd still have the audio problem that I detail above.

*****
Related questions, for masochists and/or AV geeks:

- Let's say I solve this problem above. I'm still left with an LD and a VHS, both of which I still use occasionally, that will be unconnected. Is my best bet with these just to run A/V to the receiver, and thence to the HDTV via component cables?

- I'd like to minimize the number of A/V component switchers. Ideally, I'd still like my receiver to be the one and only device that switches between ALL a/v components. And what's nice is that I can split the audio and the video signals -- that is, I can listen to the CD player while watching the signal from the VHS, if I so desire. Is there some way I can use this functionality to refrain from buying any further switchers?

What receiver and speakers should I purchase for under $400?

vmrob — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:58:51 -0800

I'm on a budget and want to upgrade my audio system. What receiver/speakers I should purchase to get the most for my money? I currently own a mini-hifi system from Sony (Specifically the MHC-GX45). I wouldn't mind reusing the receiver/amp from that system though I have a feeling to get the most out of the system, I'll be looking for a new receiver as the input options are very limited on the device.

The entire system will be used for stereo sources so surround isn't a priority though a dedicated subwoofer would be nice.

After a quick look online, I found a set of speakers from Sony (SS-F5000) that seem to fit my budget and have overall good reviews. If there is a better pair of speakers (floor standing would be nice, but not necessary) at about that price, what are they and where can I get them?

As for a receiver, I'm totally lost. I've never been in the market and I'm not sure what I need. Auto-switching sources would be nice though I don't know what other features I should be looking for. Recommendations?

My budget for the whole system would preferably be less than $400. If you point out a sub I could add later, bonus points to you. I know the budget will force me to make sacrifices to the sound quality and I'm ok with that, but I really want a system that sounds good. In other words, if I have to step up the price, I can do that, but my purchase will be a little delayed.

Converting vinyl records to digital files using an existing turntable...

You Should See the Other Guy — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:14:35 -0800

I like my vinyl records. I want to make digital files out of them. What are my options ... which don't include a new turntable and, preferably but not absolutely, don't require my computer and stereo to be in the same room? I'm on a Mac.

I'm not sure what it's supposed to do, but I'm pretty sure it works

kid_dynamite — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 10:52:55 -0800

What is this mystery spindle that came with the turntable I just got? I just was given a Technics SL-1950, in really nice shape, but I'm a little bit flummoxed by the spindle setup. Mounted on the turntable was a long autochanger spindle, which is easily removed and reattached with a bayonet action.

The turntable also came with another object that looks like another spindle housed in a black plastic box. The bottom (bayonet-mount) end of the spindle is exposed, and I can mount this object on the turntable. The plastic box has 2 tabs on the side that don't seem to do anything when I press them; I would expect that they would release the spindle but that doesn't seem to be the case.

So, then, how can I get a 'short', single-play spindle on this turntable, and what is the mystery spindle in the black box?
Any guidance is much appreciated.

"Seasoning" headphones?

rwhe — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:17:39 -0800

Is the practice of "seasoning" headphones just supersition? In the Amazon reviews for a pair of earbuds I'm buying, I came across the claim that they sounded awful unless they were "seasoned" first by hooking them up to a constant audio source with a wide frequency range overnight or even for a few days. I googled "seasoning headphones" and came across this claim for some other headphones and earbuds, although it's not widespread.

To me this sounds like either (1) rank audiophile supersition, or (2) someone pulling the reader's leg. That's why I'm coming to AskMeFi. Opinions, please. Better, facts.

Cheers!

Do I really need two or three separate boxes for just-OK computer audio?

amtho — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:53:33 -0800

Do I really need two or three separate boxes for just-OK computer audio? I need some kind of speaker to hook up to my laptop-used-as-a-desktop, but having three or even two separate components is cumbersome. I also don't think I really need an expensive, fancy system. The sound from this JBL Creature system has been fine, but now I need to use it for another purpose. It was always kind of a pain, anyway, because the sub woofer wouldn't fit on my crowded desk, and it houses the on/off control, so I'd have to crawl under my desk to turn off the power. (the power brick gets alarmingly warm, too, but that's another issue). I always kept the two little "stereo" speakers right next to each other, anyway -- I'm not looking for a "you are there" sound experience from my computer.

I'd love something smallish that will fit on my desk, ideally with a flat surface on top so I can stack something on it. I don't think I need a whole bunch of bass, but enough sound quality for movies and the occasional foray into music (I'm enjoying Admira's classical guitar tracks, thanks!) would be nice.

The speaker built into my tiny Thinkpad is too quiet to even hear most movies, so I need _something_.

I've tried shopping in a couple of local stores, but it seems like everything comes in sets of two, three, or even five separate speakers. Apparently, marketing departments everywhere think that all purchasing decisions are made by teenage boys.

I'd like to spend maybe $50 for something, or maybe a little more if necessary, but it seems like I should be able to find something for less -- used would be OK, even. Is this realistic?

Brand/model recommendations would be extremely welcome.

Do I have to choose functional over pretty?

missuswayne — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 07:49:56 -0800

What's so special about speaker cloth? Can I replace it with regular fabric? We have a large built-in bookshelf with compartments that house stereo speakers. The compartments have rectangular cut-outs, probably 15"x20", covered in speaker cloth, which I'd like to replace. Can I use regular fabric (I had picked out a nubby woven semi-lightweight upholstery fabric) to replace the speaker cloth, or will that really affect the quality of the audio? We don't use that stereo all that much, but when we do it would be nice to be able to hear it. :) Thanks!

Lite Rock, Less Talk? I'd like neither, please.

strangecargo — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:59:16 -0800

(Electronics|Stereo)filter: What is causing this infuriating noise in my preamp and how do I fix it? Links to sound files and long list of symptoms in extended. I have this preamp and ever since moving to my current apartment in San Francisco, it generates a really loud noise that sounds like a combination of 60 Hz hum and FM radio broadcasts. The noise is loudest when the volume knob is turned all the way down, but it doesn't go away when you turn the volume up. And this is what it sounds like when you go from zero gain to full gain and back. The noises don't sound that loud when played back on a computer, but that level of noise is pretty dang loud when sent to the input of a power amp.

The maybe pertinent facts (numbered because there are a lot of them):

1. I recorded the linked sound files by plugging in the output of the preamp into the line in of a MacBook Pro. No mixing or diddling with the file other than that.

2. You can clearly hear the station identifier for KOIT in the first sound file I linked. This is an FM station. What the heck? I was under the impression that FM was way too complicated for equipment to randomly pick up unless it was designed specifically to, you know, receive FM radio.

3. Changing the vacuum tubes inside the preamp doesn't change the nature of the noise.

4. I have other audio equipment (both solid-state and tubed) that doesn't make this sort of noise.

5. The noise is generated independent of what I have connected as an input or output (or if there's anything connected at all).

6. I can't seem to reproduce this noise outside of my apartment (friends' places, hifi shops, etc). Whenever I try, the preamp is noiseless and dead silent.

7. Physically moving the preamp around my apartment doesn't seem to change the noise either.

8. I live in an old apartment without grounding in most of the electrical sockets, but the noise doesn't change if I plug the preamp into a grounded outlet. I've checked that the grounded outlets in my apartment are indeed grounded with one of these devices.

9. I live sort of near Sutro Tower (but who in SF doesn't?). Wikipedia tells me that KOIT broadcasts from Sutro Tower. I also live right next to the N Judah MUNI line. Sometimes my lights dim when it goes by. I suspect the power is probably kind of dirty.

10. Using a different power cable doesn't do anything.

11. For what it's worth, here's a look at the circuitry inside the preamp.

I've been investigating this problem on and off for the last year or so and I still haven't figured out what's causing the problem. Do any electrical engineer types have an suggestions for further testing or solutions to this problem? I have a digital multimeter and oscilloscope at my disposal for the collection of further data.

I'm quite attached to this preamp (more so when it isn't making this noise), so please don't tell me to replace it.

How to place a good speaker in a bad corner?

aladfar — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:28:20 -0800

How to place a good speaker in a corner? After investing in some decent audio gear, I find that I cannot avoid placing the left speaker in a corner due to space constraints. As expected, this emphasizes low the frequencies on that side and makes the sound stage a bit wonky. Short of moving the speaker, is there any way to mitigate this somewhat?

Playing records and listening to my iMac through one system

Foam Pants — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 01:32:39 -0800

I would like to set up a system where my turntable and my iMac all flow out of a nice set of speakers. I have no idea where to start. This is the junk I have:
1. iMac
2. Pioneer belt-driven turntable with audio out hardwired and no amplifier
3. a super crappy stereo with half of the speakers missing. Funny story, I had to toss one because a mouse made a nest in it. I want to make this ugly, usable-space-sucker go away.
4. Basic Airport
5. Record collection that I like to play AS RECORDS
6. a sizable MP3 collection that I play through iTunes

Stuff I am willing to purchase
1. New turntable, even though my current one sports a kick-ass sticker collection
2. amplifier
3. Another Airport
4. Sweet speakers
5. Something else a dunder head like me doesn't realize she needs.
6. The services of a male escort.

While I love my music, I am an idiot who doesn't know jack about setting up an audio system. Please advise me, you can be condescending if it helps it come out.

iPhone car charger?

olinerd — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:13:46 -0800

What's a good iPhone car charger that won't make my music noisy? I have a 3G iPhone. I have a car with an aux input. I enjoy playing iPhone music over my car stereo via this input. It's all spiffy.

Until next week, when I have to drive for twelve hours (instead of the usual max seven) to a relative's house for Thanksgiving. I also need to use the phone for navigation, occasional phone calls to update worried parents on progress, and so forth. When I switch off with my co-driver, I may also want to play games on the phone. We may also use the Pandora app to stream some music when we're in 3G areas. All this points to serious battery draw.

So: I want a car charger for the phone. The problem is, I had one of the Monster combination FM transmitter/charger things for an older iPod that I plugged into my old first gen iPhone, and it charged, but any music played over the aux input to the stereo while the charger was plugged in was horribly static-y. I'm not sure if this was a problem with putting something designed for an old iPod into an iPhone, or if the charging itself interferes with the music playback, or what, but it was pretty craptacular. It wasn't GSM noise -- it was serious static.

I don't have any friends with car chargers I can try out to see if iPhone-specific chargers work better, and I'd rather not drop the money on one that isn't going to work. Has anyone had experience with an iPhone car charger that doesn't interfere with the output to a car stereo (via a cable, not over FM transmission)? What do you recommend? (I've found reviews of chargers, and I've found reviews of connections to aux inputs, but nothing really combining the two to see if there are noise issues)

Again, this is a 3G iPhone, and I've got a built-in aux input to my car stereo.

Audio-Video-Computing wish list

Echidna882003 — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 13:56:10 -0800

I'm moving and starting over just about from scratch. I'd like people's input on what I should do about setting up nifty integrated audio/visual/computing stuff in my new place. Here are some details:
1) I'm renting, so things like mounting speakers inside walls, drilling a bunch of holes for cables, etc. is probably out.
2) I will have a decent LCD HDTV.
3) I own a 80 hour dual tuner TiVo, I like it okay.
4) I own a PS3 (w/ remote), so I have a pretty good BluRay player.
5) I have my nice T60p laptop (with XP) and a decent dell desktop (with Ubuntu.)
6) cable internet and TV from Comcast (sigh.)
7. I'm fairly technically competent, I just haven't kept up in this area.

So what would you do? Media server? What kind of stereo components are essential or just nice to have? Universal remote of some kind? A safe way to make and watch "backups" of DVDs (wink)? Software recommendations? Internet radio? Clever integration?

Which awesome website do you folks love that deals with this kinda stuff?

Thanks folks!

(sorry if this topic has been covered before, but I'm a very special person who deserves a lot of individual attention, plus I'm very lazy!)

Assembling a budget stereo.

Marquis — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:05:37 -0800

I am confused about assembling a relatively budget, quality home stereo system. (long) Some thirteen years ago, I received a Panasonic stereo minisystem (radio/CD/tape) as a gift. It served me well over the years. More recently I added a powered (AudioTechnica) turntable, which I play through the stereo on the AUX setting.

A couple of weeks ago, the Panasonic CD player died. Although the amp is still okay (ie, vinyl works fine), the CD's the thing I use most often.

I have decided I want to buy a new system. I am an adult now, after all. I also work as a music critic, so this seems to make sense. Unfortunately my budget's not very large - for this reason I've mostly invested in quality headphones (Grado HF-1s, Senns) over the past several years. Now, though, I'd like to make a few careful purchases and hopefully have the stereo problem "solved" for a decade or two.

What I am looking for is a system with good sound, that will fill my living-room well. Should include CD player and allow me to bring in my turntable (which has a pre-amp) and plug in my iPod/computer if I like (preferably without swapping out the turntable). Do not need cassettes, radio, home-theatre set-up, fancy iPod dock, etc.

I'm inclined to buy separate components, not one big set at Futureshop or Best Buy. Vintage is also presumably good. I'm a bit confused about what exactly I need, though.

I am particularly confused by all the mixed-up talk of "tuners", "amplifiers" and "receivers". Aren't tuners radios? Can I just forego a tuner? If my receive has two "phono" slots, can I use one of those for a CD player?

I would really appreciate it if someone could suggest what type of components I need to find, and then what kinds (brands, styles, price-ranges, and also tech specs I need) I should try to obtain.

I have found a good price for lovely PSB Model 40 mk II speakers (freq range-39Hz-21KHz, impedence 6 ohm, sensitivity 1 watt-90db, power-100 watts program), but I have no idea what else I need to fill this system out. Presumably some kind of amp? With what specs? Can I then just use a dirt-cheap CD player? I'm sorta lost.

I'm looking to spend $400-$700, all-in, which I realise is not very much but I think should be able to take me somewhere if I'm able to make patient, prudent purchases.

Thanks for your time!

Which speakers should I get for my Mac?

OmieWise — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:17:32 -0800

I'm going to be relying on my iMac and the music stored on it for a while. I would like to get a set of speakers so that the computer sounds better. What reasonably-priced powered speakers have folks had success with? I'd rather not get a separate subwoofer. I'd be willing to get a small amp and use my small stereo speakers if all the other options are too crappy. Thanks.

Good micro stereo system?

DLWM — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:00:54 -0800

I'm looking for a cheap (about $200) and compact stereo system for my apartment. Mainly it'd be for playing CD's and streaming audio via my Airport Express. I'm interested in the Onkyo CS-315S, CS-325 and CS-415 units, but I can't for the life of my figure out what the hell the difference is. Does anyone know about these systems, or have any other recommendations? I'm also toying with the idea of getting a cheap powered subwoofer, like the Polk PSW10, to go along with whatever system I get -- thoughts?

Help improve my sound!

aladfar — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:44:19 -0800

Help improve my sound! After listening to some pristine, rich & dynamic music at a friend's studio, I've decided to improve my own setup. The catch? I don't want to spend thousands and have no interest in audiophile snake oil. Recommendations? Details on my existing gear inside. Note: I should point out that I was listening to uncompressed AIFF audio at the studio. While I've no plans to get rid of my MP3 files, I want to get the most out of my vinyl and lossless digital.

My current setup:
Mac w/iTunes
Small Mackie Mixer (A glorified switcher, sometimes used for podcasting)
Pro-Ject Phono Preamp
Pro-Ject Debut III Turntable
M-Audio Stereophile Monitors

What I heard at the studio:
Mac w/iTunes
Apogee Ensemble D/A Converter
Mackie HR824 Monitors

Is there a nice spot in the middle? Should I ditch the powered monitors and pursue an amplified solution? Recommendations would be much appreciated. I'm open to anything, but would like to keep things at or below (preferably below) $1k. Thanks!

New car stereo solution?

ObscureReferenceMan — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:37:40 -0800

Car stereo solution for someone non-technical. I have a 1990 Acura Legend with original stereo & speakers, but the 10-disc changer my brother installed is having issues (discs aren't always recognized, and the remote is broken). And the rear speakers are buzzing. So I'm in the market for something new. I don't want to spend more than $500 (for stereo and speakers). My requirements:
- Input for iPod (will be purchasing that soon also)
- Should play at least one CD (in case on a road trip, someone brings tunes)
- Some kind of equalizer (not just treble/bass control)

My question is not so much "which unit" (but I welcome input/feedback), but "where to go?". My gut tells me BestBuy. I've browsed, and they seem to have a decent selection, and installation is minimal. Or do I go to a car stereo place? There are plenty on Long Island (suggestions for/against would also be appreciated). Would $500 get me something good?

One qualification: I do NOT want to buy individual components and install them myself (I know it's cheaper). I am NOT handy. I CANNOT do electrical installation. This is non-negotiable. Sorry.

Any other suggestions (units to be aware of +/-, forums, review sites, etc.) are welcome. Thanks!!

Best places to talk Home Audio?

Phyltre — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 20:42:05 -0800

What and where are the best audio/home theater discussion groups/forums for someone wanting to learn about said items? I'm working in big-box retail (and loving it, thank you very much), and there are some extremely tempting Employee Accommodations available to me. I've been looking at home audio a lot recently, and this cements it--I'm definitely buying when the components cost between 50 and 75% less than retail.

The catch is, I don't know very much about home audio. I've googled the models, and gotten some information. I've googled for audio and home theater forums as well (with tons of results), but I don't know who to trust or respect. That's where I need your help. What and where are the best audio/home theater discussion groups and forums, so I can get good advice and not waste my once-a-year accommodations purchase or, at worst, buy the wrong thing and burn the house down?

(Because I know you'll ask: My preliminary plan is to get a Harman Kardon AVR-144 receiver with two Klipsch RF-82 floorstanders and an RW10d sub. Price to me: roughly $700 for everything. Yes, this will be an ad-hoc 2.1 system on a 5.1 receiver, but I'm not buying everything at once for budgeting reasons.)

iPhone Car Integration

jpcody — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 17:05:08 -0800

I, like many others, am trying to get the perfect setup for my iPhone in my car. Are there any solutions? Current info:
2000 Mitsubishi Montero Sport XLS, stock stereo, no aux-in or tape deck
1.1.3 Jailbroken iPhone
Monster FM transmitter

I'm looking to be able to both listen to my iPhone and place and receive calls. I had a friend that was able to do this through a tape deck, and I became insanely jealous.

Ideal setup: be able to run headphone jack to an aux-in input. I haven't been able to find an accessory to allow me to essentially rig an aux-in.

Less-than ideal setup: an FM transmitter that will not produce GSM buzz and will run without being in airplane mode.

The kicker: $100 budget. Preferably way cheaper.

Has anyone had any success with this? Any audiophiles that can satisfy my possibly irrational desire to run my iPhone through my car stereo?

Manuals for a Technics SU-G91 amp?

lonefrontranger — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:01:57 -0800

Old-skool AmpFilter: Who can provide links and/or guidance for us to find manuals / technical info for an older Technics amp and 5-CD changer? Neither AskMeFi nor Google has been of any help.

Specifics: The amp is a Technics SU-G91 New Class A Stereo Integrated Amp. The CD player is a Technics SL-PD845 5-CD changer.

Both components appear to have serial# / manufacture dates of 1993. From the (very) sparse info I was able to locate on the web, Technics was apparently taken over by Panasonic at some point, and neither site has any info on these 2 components that I could locate.

mr. lfr was the beneficiary of a friend's move, and picked up these 2 components. Both appear to be in pristine shape, however it's a little flaky trying to figure out how to set up the amp for surround mode with satellite rears.

I think (I'm not that knowledgeable about All Things A/V) that this system may predate Dolby 5.1 Surround. It does have a Dolby ProLogic button on the front of the amp.

I've tried various google searches and the information on these things is not easy to find. A smattering of forum posts on diy sound forums is about all I could find, and they mainly concerned stuff like how to re-solder leads to the heat sink on damaged amps.

Specifically want to figure out how many channels the amp has, and how many watts per channel - I see some references to 130 wpc, but is this for all channels, or only the front? Don't want to fry the satellites or blow the amp.

A link to a .pdf of an user manual for one or both of these components would be ideal. Failing that, someone who knows where we can find links to (preferably free) schematics online, or can otherwise give insight. I would imagine there's someone on MeFi who knows enough about older rack system componentry to provide assistance.

Thanks AskMeFi!

Where to find a quality record player?

Braeog — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 11:16:46 -0800

I'm looking for a record player for my parents for Christmas, the highest quality within a budget of $400-$500. This has been addressed in the past, but that was a year ago, and my budget is greater. Can any audiophiles give me recommendations on equipment? My parents have a 20-30 year old record player and speakers set up in their house, but some years ago, the record player stopped functioning (smoke comes out whenever they try to use it). The speakers should be still in solid working order, though I'm not certain whether or not they have a pre-amplifier (a term I discovered while reading previous threads). Since I don't have the equipment here in front of me to look at, I'm uncertain as to whether or not the turntable could have a pre-amplifier built into it. I have no problem buying one of these as well, but I could also use the help figuring out what I'm looking for in that respect, or any other equipment I'll need.

Thanks for the help and advice!

A cheap mp3 player for a 16-year-old girl...

Ian A.T. — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 12:48:32 -0800

Please help my girlfriend buy a cheap mp3 player for a 16-year-old girl in foster care she's "adopted" for the holidays. Every year, my girlfriend participates in a program where she gets the name and Christmas wish list of an underprivileged kid. This year, she's shopping for a 16-year-old girl whose parents have had their parental rights revoked and who is currently a ward of the state living in some kind of foster home. Quote:

"One of the things on her list is an MP3 player, which is totally one of those things that would make some people scream "what!?", the implication being that if you can have an MP3 player you can't be in particularly dire straits, but I feel like I understand: I mean, why can't she have what everyone else has, you know?

"On the other hand, it seems like a dicey gift for someone in her situation: how is she going to get music for it? Is she going to have regular access to a computer? Is she living in some foster care setting where there are multiple opportunities for someone to steal it?

"So basically, I want to get her an MP3 player but I sure as hell don't want to get her an iPod, something both expensive and utterly desirable by others; I'm looking for something a little more toylike, as I think that's probably all that she needs.

"Does this exhausting explanation bring any product to your mind? I tried to go online and read reviews last night, but that always confuses me 10 times more.

"As for my budget, I don't think I have a very realistic notion of how much a cheap MP3 player should cost. She has other stuff on her list that I'd rather spend money on (like clothes and school supplies) so this is more of a second-tier present, you know? Definitely less than $100... like way less."

Ian here again. I know one of the stock AskMe answers is "we need more information," but the information we have about her situation is all we're going to get.

Thanks, guys!