Making a mono audio cable

stu

A few months ago I posted a question asking if I could use a hi-fi as a PA. Anyway I plug my mic into my laptop then the laptop into the hi-fi amp. It works well execpt its too soft as was predicted by the forum pros. I can hardly hear myself over the drums but as it is my only option right now Im going to live with it.

One of the problems I think is that the sound only comes through one speaker. Windows doesnt have a mono option and its the same with the hi-fi amp.
So I had an idea.

If I cut cut the wire coming out the laptop and split the left wire (I think its only the left speaker working...) so that it goes into the left and right in the amp will I achieve mono?

Logic tells me it will work

costafonix

what cables are you using going from your laptop to your hi-fi? and what plugs are you using?

stu

Should have thought of that.

Its a Jack plug (the small kind) from the laptop and then those AV type plug into the hi-fi

like this http://www.varologic.com/blog/Images/Gold_3.5mm_Jack_to_RCA_Phono_Cable.jpg

costafonix

sounds like it would work, basically on your output jack you have an earth and a Left & Right, u just need to join the L & R wires to make the signal mono and feed both channels on your amp,

AlanRatcliffe

Look around for a freeware mixer program that will let you both boost the mic signal to optimal level and pan it to both outputs. I can't think of any names offhand, but I have seen them around...

stu

Thanks Alan. That sounds like a better plan

stu

Hey Alan

I cant seem to find a program that will do the job I want. Must be because Im an idiot and not looking properly. Dont go out your way but if you randomly remember a programs name please post it here.

AlanRatcliffe

A quick search for "software audio mixer" turned up these:
http://www.mymusictools.com/utilities_28/power_mixer_20660.htm
http://www.newfreedownloads.com/MP3-Audio/Misc-Plug-ins/Audio-Control.html

Norman86

Just out of curiosity, why not make a crude mono cable with:

1 x 3.5mm stereo to 2(male) RCA cable
1 x 2 RCA(female) to 1 RCA (male)
1 x RCA to 6.3mm mono jack (if needed by the amp)

stu

Thanks Alan. I kept getting programs that would mix audio tracks :-\

Norman, I wanted a avoid buying anything becuase I dont like spending money ? But I see what I can do if the program doesnt work.

Norman86

Sure, i understand...
But to get those wont cost R50! and that WILL give you mono...
Software is a pita to get working right! especially for something which should be so simple!

Tonedef

Norman86 wrote: Just out of curiosity, why not make a crude mono cable with:

1 x 3.5mm stereo to 2(male) RCA cable
1 x 2 RCA(female) to 1 RCA (male)
1 x RCA to 6.3mm mono jack (if needed by the amp)

Wont that still just give you one channel? Does this setup connect left and right?

Norman86

If he needs an extra, add a 1 x 1 RCA(female) to 2 RCA (male) cable for left and right!
That'll definitely work! but it also depends what input is being used on the amplifying end of course!

Like i said, its crude! but it will get the job done!