How to connect the radio to the subwoofer. How to connect an amplifier.

Connecting the sound amplifier to a separate radio, whether it's a CD player, tuner or combo-station, in principle, the process is simple. Almost every radio is equipped with RCA sockets for outputting audio signal to an external device. The amplifier, acting as a receiver, receives a signal on the audio inputs. Accordingly, the amplifier is connected to the original radio tape recorder by means of an interconnected RCA cable with the choice of a certain number of linear channels.

A small problem can arise if the number of output jacks of a radio tape recorder does not coincide with the number of input connectors of the amplifier. For example, the radio has two standard stereo outputs. And the amplifier has built-in 4 receiving channels: a pair for the front speakers and a pair for side speakers or one subwoofer. To repeat the incoming audio signal to all channels of the amplifier, use the input selector. Sometimes a signal is passed through several amplifiers: from the output of the first to the input of the second. Or the signal is repeated by a crossover.

What to do when there is no line output on the radio

Often there are cases when amplify the sound from the radio tape recorder is problematic due to the lack of linear outputs. Then how to connect the receiver to the receiver? You can use several different methods. They differ in sound quality and in the cost of implementation. Let's consider connection of a radio tape recorder through high-level inputs.

The principle of connection is very common. The amplifier receives a signal from the radio through the input channel. Usually, if you connect the speakers to the radio, the signal, passing through the built-in micro amplifier of the player, falls on the speakers. In our case, instead of outputting to the speaker, the sound must be redirected to the input of an external amplifier. In this case, the magnitude of the linear signal can reach about 10-15 W. All you need is to equip the amplifier with appropriate high-level inputs, which will be fed with a linear source signal.

In the same way, you can consider connecting the radio to a subwoofer with a built -in sound amplifier. It's even simpler, because each subwoofer model is equipped with one or more high-level inputs. A system cable often includes a power cable and a separate cord for signal transmission.

Connecting to an amplifier through a high-level input is often subject to extensive criticism. However, the reasons for it are not so significant. Yes, there is a slight discrepancy in the sound with the original signal, but it is almost imperceptible. Especially if it's a solid high-quality amplifier or a subwoofer. If you only need to connect the radio to the subwoofer, the sound will be quite acceptable.

Paradoxically, systems with high sound quality can introduce certain distortions due to the design features that are not so noticeable in middle-class systems. In short, connecting to a high-level input has a greater advantage than a linear one. Both the price and the ease of connection are added in favor of the former.

But do not think that this method does not allow you to get a good, more than acceptable sound. Yes, there are premium amplifiers with personal signal sources for individual expensive audio systems. But they are also equipped with high-level input jacks for compatibility.

Even if the amplifier does not have high-level input channels, the signal can always be converted to linear. For this, converters of match size are used. Their price is quite acceptable. The choice should be reasonable and balanced. It is not worth chasing cheap converters. It is better to use products of famous manufacturers of middle or top-class.