Follow these simple steps to connect your computer to the stereo.
Steps
Step 1. Locate the audio jack input by looking at the back of the computer
It is usually green in color.
Step 2. Connect the stereo male audio cable
Plug the male end of the stereo audio cable into the audio output jack on the back of the computer.
Step 3. Take the other end of the stereo audio cable, and plug the male pole into the stereo Y-female audio cable
Step 4. Plug one end of the RCA cable into the Y-cable
Connect the white male RCA cable with the white female RCA cable, and connect the red male RCA with the red female RCA cable.
Step 5. Locate the red and white "AUX IN" ports on the back of the stereo
The red door is the right, and the white door is the left.
Step 6. Plug the other end of the RCA cable into the stereo ports
Connect the white RCA male to the white female port, and connect the red RCA male to the red port.
Step 7. Choose "AUX" on the stereo to receive audio from the computer
On some stereos this is done by remote control, or manually.
Step 8. Verify computer connectivity
It may vary depending on the type of computer / OS you have.
Go to the Control Panel (usually through the Start menu). Click Hardware and Sound, then the sound icon. Click the Playback tab. Check the Speakers entry. If it has a green check mark, it means it has been recognized. If it has a red down arrow, it means it has no audio input. Make sure all cables are connected correctly to allow the computer to recognize the audio input
Advice
- To adjust the volume settings:
- This process can be greatly simplified by purchasing a cable of sufficient length that has a 1/8 "male mini jack (headphone style) on one end and two male RCA connectors on the other end. This reduces the number of components required and you saves a few euros.
- You may run into a "ground loop" problem, where a high-pitched low hum (from the electrical wiring) is played through the stereo speakers. This is a fairly common problem, but it can often be solved by purchasing a mass isolator and installing it between the computer and the stereo. This instrument contains transformers that eliminate ground loops by isolating the stereo from the computer. Major online sites like RadioShack and Amazon sell these devices.
Warnings
- Make sure you start with the lowest volume on both systems or you could damage the speakers.
- While this isn't necessary on modern systems, to be safe, keep your computer and stereo off until you're done plugging in the cables.
