The need to link a device that only has speaker outputs to the line-level inputs of an external amplifier arises from time to time. In most cases, the direct connection does not produce adequate results since speaker levels are substantially greater than line-level signals. That is why the signal level attenuator was created which allows you to connect speaker outputs to operation level inputs without experiencing signal level issues.
If you want your line-level signals to be suitable for the amplifier’s line-level input, they should be in the 0.3V to 2V range. Because of this, approximately 20 dB of attenuation is designed to bring the signals within line of sight. By employing a 10:1 voltage division circuit, this conversion can be accomplished quickly and easily.
This article includes details on how you can change the output from a 16-ohm speaker to a line signal. You will also find some answered frequently asked questions. These answers cover the whole topic of how to change the output of a speaker to a line signal. Keenly read the article to understand the given information.
Change the Output to a 16-Ohm Speaker to Line Signal
1. The circuit
The circuit is intended to be used with standard high-fidelity amplifiers in which the negative speaker wire (black) is linked to the amplifier grounding terminals. Be cautious because some newer amplifiers have both ends actively driven, so take caution when connecting them. If you connect either of them to a common reference, the output stage may begin to emit smoke.
2. Technical specs
The circuit is suited for use with audio amplifiers ranging in power from 1.50W to 50W. When connected to the amplifier’s speaker output, the circuit has the capability of being used in parallel with the present loudspeakers.
3. Circuit description
A typical signal level for speakers is in the 3.20V range (Volts) (amplifiers to a maximum of 50W power output). If you want your line-level signals to be suitable for the amplifier’s line-level input, they should be in the 0.3V to 2V range. Because of this, approximately 20 dB of attenuation is tasked with bringing the signals within line of sight. By employing a 10:1 voltage division circuit, this conversion can be accomplished quickly and easily.
4. Notes when using the circuit
When utilizing the circuit, double-check that everything is properly connected before proceeding. It is possible to damage the amplifier and/or other devices connected to it if you connect the speaker production to the ground at the same time as you connect the speaker ground to the ground.
A 10-ohm resistor placed between both the circuit and the speaker surface connector will help you avoid destroying anything and will ensure that short circuit inductance is always at least 10 ohms, though it may cause humming problems at times due to the increased grounding impedance in some situations.
Take into consideration only using standard power amps with a prevalent speaker signal ground, as that is what this circuit is intended to do. This product will not function properly when used in conjunction with automotive radio amplifiers that have bridge outputs. When using this circuit with an audio system that does not have speakers connected, keep in mind that some amplifiers can produce loud and powerful audio even when no speakers are linked to the output of the amplifier. Alternatively, if this occurs to you, you can use an 8-ohm load resistance as a load by linking it to the speaker impedance of the amplifier.
It is important to choose a resistor that can withstand the amount of power that your amplifier is capable of delivering. To avoid the use of a low-power resistor, choose a resistor in the 50-300 ohm scope, which produces satisfactory results most of the time. In any case, such load resistors are only ever required in a very limited number of situations.
5. Use of a resistor to increase the total speaker impedance
To raise the speaker impedance as required, connect a resistor with the appropriate resistance (Ohms) value and with at least 1/2 the power rating of the stereo or amplifier’s power output rating.
Protect any uncovered resistor leads with electrical tape so that they do not short to loudspeaker wire or other metal components. Always make certain that the speaker or resistor wire is completely covered and not exposed when working with them. By connecting resistors in series, you may effectively double or triple the impedance of your speaker.
6. Reducing the total speaker impedance load by use of a resistor
Calculate the value of the resistor you’ll need in Ohms (this is normally the same as the speaker’s resistance. To use a resistor with a speaker wire and a speaker, link the resistor to the output terminals of the speaker (you do not have to connect the resistor directly to the speaker if that is a problem). Connect the speaker wire to the output terminals of the resistor. Ensure that any exposed speaker wires or resistor leads are completely covered and protected so that they do not cause a short circuit to the surrounding wiring or metal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can one convert a speaker signal to a line level?
Answer; if you want your line-level signals to be suitable for the amplifier’s line-level input, they should be in the 0.3V to 2V range. Because of this, approximately 20 dB of attenuation is required to bring the transmissions within line of sight. By employing a 10:1 voltage division circuit, this conversion can be accomplished quickly and easily.
Conclusion
Before using the circuit, make sure that everything has been properly linked. The amplifier and/or any devices connected to it may be damaged if the speaker production and speaker ground are connected to the ground at the same time. Be cautious when connecting modern amplifiers because some of them have both ends that are actively driven, so use caution when connecting them. You may notice smoke coming from the output stage if either of them is connected via a common reference.
In conclusion, Electrical tape should be used to cover any exposed resistor leads to prevent them from shorting to speaker wire or other metallic materials. When working with speakers or resistors, always make sure that the wires are fully covered and not released into the air. It is possible to effectively double or treble the impedance of the speaker by putting resistors in series with each other.
