AUX: Expand your amplifier inputs!

[@anadialog]

Something I forgot to highlight is the fact that signal brake + poor quality switches can degrade sound, hence a HQ audio switch is important for fidelity!

[@shaun9107]

no idea what that is mate lol

[@michaelhayko2904]

Yes I understand. Thanks again and thanks for replying!

[@AndyP126]

Two things to suggest here: A used Realistic 42-2110. It's plastic, but the inside is all shielded. They can be had for $20 or less on eBay in the US. Only problem with them is only 3 inputs. @DrCassette Made a great video about modding a cheap 8 port switch box: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3fdk4eIjMZ_qaM

[@boxojo8319]

Thank you so much for this incredibly helpful video!! I am trying to add a Technics SL 1200 MK2 to a JVC FS-D88 Vintage compact shelf amplifier (insert laughter here) and I am already using the 2 RCA ins and outs with a Technics CD-A580 (cassette/CD) player so this video was on point!

[@alfaman4113]

Can you use it on the phono input? I want to connect 3 turntables on the one phono input

[@anadialog]

Of course, it's a switch!

[@berniestep]

A great video thank you. The best solution to this problem is a Nakamichi 610.............but they're not easy to find.

[@karellen00]

This will probably be a very welcome video to a lot of people, or at least it would have saved me a lot of time when I decided to get rid of rca splitters! Such a simple and useful device and yet so little is being said about it! Confusingly a lot of times it is called passive preamp, maybe because sometimes it can have a volume wheel, but anyway it's something I would avoid as it's only a resistance in series that can degrade the sound. I use mine to route the signal between pc, dac and turntable (with phono preamp) to a tube headphone amp or speakers, I added some embossed tape stickers for simplicity to find the right source. I would also add that being a passive device you can use in either direction, as an example if you have one that was thought to be used for 3 sources to one amp, you can also use with one source and 3 amps. Also if you have a lot of input and outputs and you don't want to go custom you can use two of them: as an example one that has 4 sources and one destination, instead of attaching it to an amp you can connect it to another one that route one source to 4 destinations. Not easy to explain, but it's exactly how those with two wheel works, just remember that the wiring between the two should be high quality!

[@anadialog]

I agree! Thanks for the extra info Marco!

[@itsnot_stupid_ifitworks]

Teac PB-32 or Teac PB-64 Patchbay is an option. I have the PB-64 in my custom Pioneer rack...follow the link here to see. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3_NooRrZs5-pdE

[@100lho100]

Thanks for this video, very informative as always, I actually use the Dynavox aux-s the opposite way, not to add more inputs to my amp, but to run multiple signals-sources true the same “Buffer”, in my case two Russian Foton tubes from 1967 , this gives the a sound i like to my, CD-player, DAC and turntable, using the same Buffer-Preamp.

[@anadialog]

Cool! Good idea!

[@kozkoz7776]

YEAH ! MARK ONE FOR CANADIAN AUDIO my people / DEEP DOWN INSIDE IM A YANKEE LOVER

[@LeoShimm]

can it be used in opposite manner, I have one input from my DAC RCA. But I need to use it for to feed multiple amps. So one input to switch to multiple output. Can this be used safely without degrading the signal ? Thanks

[@anadialog]

Absolutely yes! Both ways. The signal will always degrade a little bit. That is the downside of this convenient solution. At least its passive and the wires are of decent quality inside. The best would be to rewire everything with bulk OCC copper wire.

[@Ninja_Gaijin]

I use Esoteric Rek-o-Kut Low Noise Phono switch - I use in reverse to split a turntable signal in two :) passive switch

[@michaelhayko2904]

Finally someone knows and explains clearly the answer to a question I've been trying to solve for quite a while; and that is I don't have enough In or Out jack's. I looked everywhere on the internet and even searched KZbin, nothing! Thank you so much you're a lifesaver! But I am wondering about something. You recite all these components that people would want to hook up to their stereo; reel-to-reel, turntable, cassette, DVD, etc. If I'm understanding you correctly all of these would be hooked up to the passive switch via the output jacks. So why would someone only get one or two output jacks? It seems to me that we would need more outputs then what you showed? And way too many inputs. What am I missing? Again, all my thanks!

[@anadialog]

Thanks for your message. You need a lot of inputs for all your different gear but only one output to connect them all (one at a time with the selector) to your preamplifier or integrated amp, which is probably already full. Let me know if this is clear.

[@Gylfy]

Nice! Thank you for an other interesting video! I would take in consideration using rack studio patchbays if you have a lot of stuff! Maybe they're a little unelegant but doing so you can route every output to every input (and viceversa) just plugging \ unplugging a pair of patches! They're quiet cheap, and you can find them used or new with different type of connections! For instance the Tascam PB-32H has 16 input- output 1/4 jack on the front and 16 RCA on the back, if you can find one in good condition can buy (or make) some hi quality TR patches and have everything routed in the same place!

[@anadialog]

Interesting thanks! Maybe a little too studio pro but good to know about!

[@LloydCapital]

I know this vid is a few years old, but this is exactly the thing I was looking for! Do you find that these switches color the sound at all? And if by chance you still see this comment, have any new versions come out in the past few years that you would recommend? It does look like the TC - 64 is still pretty easily available on eBay. Personally I wouldn't need more than 3 inputs. Anyway thanks for your content!

[@anadialog]

No vid is old! I haven’t checked and I sure there are but they are difficult to find. Yes, a signal break is always a negative thing. The best we can do to mitigate is to get a high quality switch as the one I have shown from Mapleleaf audio. Another solution is to make your own. It’s not that difficult.

[@TarkiBeladakis]

Hi i have sent a Email via your link to Maple leaf as i am interested and have sent them information about a RCA switch that i am interested in. I have had no reply as it has been over a week. Would you know if this company in Canada is still in business or do know a different Email address for them. Any assistance would be very interested. Thanking you.

[@anadialog]

They are a small artisanal company. Make sure you are here mapletreeaudio.com at the bottom I see an email to Al. That is the only way!

[@Coneman3]

Downside is you need another set of interconnects and it adds complexity. But if it’s the only way, you need it.

[@anadialog]

Indeed and the connectors/ connections also add signal break.

[@dandiehm8414]

I wish someone would make a switch box with digital AND analog inputs and outputs and have them be remote controllable. Not a preamp - a switcher!

[@vijfsnippervijf]

Fiio K5 has exactly that! 1xUSB, 1xCoax, 1xOptical AND 1xLine in(RCA).

[@zeroumashi2947]

gold plating is often too thin to really take advantage since it will wear over time. You're better off with nickel or even rhodium plating since both are more durable than gold.

[@anadialog]

If you plug and unplug often, I agree.

[@ghostdancer58]

I love your enthusiasm, keep them coming.

[@anadialog]

THANKS!

[@Enuuuuu299]

I have to connect 2 active speakers to my stereo, except that it only has one output, what do I need?

[@anadialog]

If they are active just a normal switch like these or a simple 2 channel one

[@toddcrookham515]

Wow this was very helpful to me. As my current receiver does not feature any tape loops. I have 2 onkyo TA-2090 cassette decks and 2 Pioneer RT-909 reel to reel players and I'm looking to add a 1/4" 2 track reel to reel player as well. What you showed me is that I can have a high quality solution that is simple and elegant! You're the best, I always learn so much from you! Todd

[@anadialog]

Thank you so much Todd!

[@wethermon]

You can make one of these, you need a 3 pole "break before make" rotary switch (L+R+Ground) so you can route a signal. It's a fun DIY project.

[@anadialog]

True! It takes time but you can choose the materials and spend a fifth...thanks for your input Rafael! (;-) notice the double sense)

[@RC-nq7mg]

i am building one from scratch but using backlit push buttons and relays for switching more for my preference for the tactile feel of a clunky push button and the sounds of relays closing. reminds me of the late 60's Apollo consoles. funny enough that cabinet in his canadian switch is exactly the same one i am using, well mostly, mine is the brushed aluminum as opposed to black with the dark walnut sides, they are made by Hammond mfg.

[@anadialog]

Good job! Send us a pic when done!

[@EddieJazzFan]

I use the Schitt Audio "SYS" which only adds one extra input, but that's all I need. It is high quality construction and adds no coloration to the sound.

[@apw2607]

Great video. I don’t see a DCC deck? I thought maybe you might be tempted given the analog roots of dcc and pretty large pre-recorded library.

[@anadialog]

Thanks. But it's digital. I'll stick with DAT. There is an precise reason why I prefer it besides its superiority in terms of specs.

[@germanschindler8781]

Great video! Thank you

[@itsnot_stupid_ifitworks]

Also Pioneer U-24 which is very sexy.

[@andrewsmetana4093]

Superb one, though quite expensive 800-1000 $ on eBay. For passive piece of hardware.

[@Chiroman527]

Ana, I found a Shinybow (never heard of them), which has 4 Audio RCA inputs and 2 RCA audio Outputs & includes , 2 S-video and 2 Video connections (in and Out). It is powered and passive. $159 on Amazon. Anybody have experience with this equipment ? THX

[@ov3rheat.gamestreams]

😵 ITS 2023 AND YOU USE A CASETTE RECORDER??

[@anadialog]

Several…there is a resurgence, haven’t you noticed?!

[@gamingmusicandjokesandabit1240]

More like Auxpanding your amplifier inputs :-)

[@kravchuk007]

Very useful , just on time

[@donaldscheer5206]

Great! and Very Informative Video as always! Thank You!

[@anadialog]

Thank you Donald!

[@Ninja_Gaijin]

Best quality is to NOT use a switch and plug and unplug lol. But they are handy

[@thechuckster1971]

2 turntables into 1 phono input and it sounds just as good as hooking each up individually. $20 and it’s fab.

[@mattbrown3549]

Thank you very much for your extremely informative video. I liked the Maple Leaf Audio Router and sent a couple of emails to them to make me custom made version but sadly there has been no response. You managed to get one. How did you do it?

[@anadialog]

Thank you Matt! They are a little slow...in the link I posted in the video description, under the router section, it mentions to contact Al Freundorfer. Click in his name to send him an email. He is in charge of them and will actually construct one for you.

[@mattbrown3549]

Thanks very much @@anadialog

[@smallworld7865]

This is exactly what I've been looking for thanks so much

[@anadialog]

Great!

[@Goodness_hey]

Thanks for the video, really helpful! The Dynavox is on eBay in the UK being delivered from Germany at around £80 including postage so not too pricey here

[@anadialog]

Glad to hear that!

[@kevinh96]

If you haven't bought one yet, they are now down to £63 on Amazon UK.

[@MrStarbor]

U a absolutely correct Bluray has HDMI but none of my vintage kenwood /pioneer etc do not have it ,,, besides there is more out there

[@sebastianpereira6037]

Interesting but note that you’ll need another interconnect from a magic box further to device and in expensive systems this might be cost prohibitive opposed to adding it internally if room allows it...

[@spencerdodds2207]

I couldn’t really see the devices you camera was aimed too high.

[@Rexcrispy]

Thanks for the help, these products are hard to find at a decent price.

[@anadialog]

True!

[@MrQwerty2524]

I have a passive mixer, it introduces a hum. I came here looking for an alternative.

[@ianyates7742]

A simple answer to the output only having one connector use a pair of 2 to 1 phono connectors one out becomes two, not a perfect answer but it will work and it will not cost a lot of money to achieve a solution to the problem. (Hop this is useful to you all )

[@rickysnit2163]

0:03 analog dialog, just with a few hundred CDs behind him..

[@anadialog]

Music is all great, I just prefer analog (in fact there is also thousands of tapes and vinyl records

[@chhabratanuj]

Nicely explained? Could you pls share, how can I connect a microphone to my guitar amplifier that only comes with a single input. Also, is there a way to use the battery on an amplifier that runs on electricity, to make it portable?

[@anadialog]

When you have only one input, or you get a different amp or you must get dome kind of interface. In your case, alla analog, I would say a small mixer with instrument and mic level inputs. For the other question, I think you must get a fuel or battery power generator.

[@joseluciano6540]

Hello, How to connect a Technics SH-GE70 Stereo Graphic Equalizer to Yamaha R-S202BL 2ch receiver? Thanks

[@brunohebert1351]

go check hifiengine.com and search your model they'll probably have your model manual there. Equalizers were basically put between the amp and the recorder unit (tape), you'll need a bunch or rca to connect them. 2 in and 2 out. But if you want to put the equalizer on the output of the amp it will not work, the only way I see it possible is between a pre-amp and the amplifier, then everything will go through the eq no matter the source but you won't be able to use the eq to tweak your recording (if you do that), That's basically what eq were for during the day, tweak the sound you're recording in order to get a better recording. Hope that helps.

[@hansbogaert4582]

I can understand the logic of having 2 outputs but now you also also loose half of the power ( each output gets 50% ) . You now only have 100mV left on each output. Don't you feel it's a bit to low for a good recording ?

[@anadialog]

I did not notice any change between the single abd the double output switch, the double actually siunded better...

[@joshbiddle2541]

Hi I just bought a six input 1 out audio selector I currently use an eq also I hook it up and get hum can you explain how I would hook it up using my current set up I just want to add more. Not record

[@anadialog]

Is it passive or active? I also made a video on how to kill hum: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hl7InKqEeax-m6M

[@InflexGG1]

Hey, I need a switch for my PC, so I can quickly swap between multiple headphones, what can you suggest?

[@anadialog]

The ones I suggested are perfect, you just use them the other way around. Also, you will need a Y connector for the headphone plug. Otherwise you could use a dedicated headphone switch, probably easier, like this one: www.amazon.co.uk/Goliton-Channel-Signal-Headphone-Switcher/dp/B01FGYYQGI

[@tommyparks387]

So, this box you speak of, it goes into a line out I guess, but how do you control it once it’s installed? I really like the idea... but I’m confused. Please advise, thanks

[@anadialog]

You just connect all your hi-fi gear, each piece has its input (we are talking analog inputs, not digital). One output goes to the smp for amplufication. On the front there is a rotary switch with which you select the input you wsnt to send to your amp (its like a bridge, one selected an input it is auromatically sent to the output and therefore to your amp). Hope this is clear!

[@adotopp1865]

I am not being sarcastic but another solution is don't have so much connected. I might try a new thing, such as recently another play around with surround sound, but now I have finished playing I take it out. I might have a go with cassettes again but will bring my cassette deck out and optimise connection and try to get the best out of it

[@williamjoelserson4898]

Hey Ado, I'm going with that Maple Tree product because my amp only has a phono input, a tape input and an aux input. Rather than uninstall and reinstall other gear (CD, laptop, tuner) I just bought the maple tree LR1. Also, I'm disabled and find turning around and plugging in a source is really cumbersome. This thing is small and perfect for my needs.

[@Unicorn-ST]

I use a mixer to get extra inputs. The good or bad (it depends on each one) is that you can as adjust the level, and also get more than one output

[@py4aw]

1)Aren't some losses in audio perhaps? 2)Is possible to connect one onto another switcher in way to multiplicate the in & outs?

[@anadialog]

Yes David, in my opinion the signal brake has always a negative effect. That is why I try to connect gear of less importance or simply that I use less, and get the highest quality as possible. I would not recommend a double routing...soubd degradation is even more evident at that point...

[@shaun9107]

Do to the total lack of inputs on all modern amps these days , I got mine for £4 from a car boot sale , . ONKYO AV has almost nothing useful at all due to the modern sloppiness with Bluetooth & Internet connection for an amp ? USELESS , no tape loop ether . MODEL 2084 E with no brand on it , it has AV & sckart as well . Its better than unplugging from the back as the stupid tight , braking your amp . Yess its for keeps . £4 , look around for second hand stuff , be smart ,

[@anadialog]

Onkyo is a excellent brand and what a price! good catch!

[@shaun9107]

@@anadialog Heat issue with the ONKYO , the fan has never spun at all . Gets very warm so I put a PC fan on top of it with a 18 V battery . Sound quality , smooth & very DEEP ! . I think this box was used for KARIOKE as it has AV , could be .

[@filippoaureggi5284]

I have a question, in my home stereo I'd like to connect many sources and I'd like to record not only with one ore two of them but every single machine , I have 3 cd player two tape deck, two Dat recorders one Minidisk and a Revox B77, What6 can I do ? Excuse me for my bad english, I write from italy

[@anadialog]

You can use a switch both ways for routing all signals to your amp and use one to rout one signal from your amp to multiple sources, but your amp must have an output.

[@filippoaureggi5284]

@@anadialog Yes my power amp have an output, but i don't understand how to connect it. A switcher like dynavox has one output, for example I connect my 5 decks to it and connect it for example to my amplifier on one input AUX (example), the rec selector on amp is on aux rec and the signal come out from here, but how to connect this signal to all the decks wit another dynavox that has multiple input and one output, I don't understand can you explain me ?

[@ArcadeDude44]

Wow, thank you SO MUCH for this video! I recently have been searching for just this device, as I will hopefully soon be assembling my audio gear into it's new home.:). I kept coming up with dead searches (pro mixers, etc), none of which would work for me. Your timing with this awesome video could not have been any better! Happy new year, my friend!

[@anadialog]

Cool! Its great to know that these vids do help some time!

[@johndenbury4697]

You said cassette tapes are making a comeback, why ?

[@anadialog]

I made several video on magnetic tape and cassettes. Here is the playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLDKsdsTBptr477KwjoZyMlCc8Yvjplijw I said that because major labels are releasing important artists on cassettes, because several producers are back making new type I cassettes all over the world plus we have the whole cassettes culture trend, where thousands of small indie bands are recording and/or releasing their music on cassette. It's a comeback!

[@fcber1891]

Is there a loss of quality in sound. If you switch...

[@anadialog]

Unfortunately, yes. All types of signal interruption decrease the quality of the signal.

[@joshbiddle2541]

But I mean if I can hook it up with using my eq I'd record if it could be done

[@anadialog]

Yes, you connect the output to the eq ans then the eq to a recorder or amp

[@joshbiddle2541]

The box is passive

[@anadialog]

Yes

[@joshbiddle2541]

@@anadialog ok thank you I've also been noticing that if I just have the eq running and not the eq record function I get hum or some sort of interference now if I didnt want to record how would I run it being able to still use the eq

[@thechuckster1971]

The $20 Chinese switches work just fine. The under $10 Chinese switches is where you run into problems. As long as the box has a screw holding the rca input into the box your probably ok. You don’t have to spend big for these.

[@anadialog]

I disagree. I had the one in the thumbnail (the Dynavox) and it was quite good but much worse than the audiophile one I mentioned here. The components and the shielding do need quality for high performance IMO.

[@bolsesolheim7469]

POOR PEOPLE CHANNEL.BORING STUFF !