Audio Systems: Connection of a cdplayer, resistor network, voltage reduction

Question
Hi Cleggsan,

At home I have an old Sanyo  GXT 210 stereo music system, a great installation but it can't play any cd's. I've got a cdplayer (without speakers or amplifier) and I would like to connect it to my stereoplayer. I've tried to connect the two with a cable with a red/white exit and an exit that I can plug in in the 'mic' input. I tried to play a cd but the sound was very weak and chaotic. On the Sanyo installation there aren't any 'aux' or 'video' inputs so I can't connect the cdplayer via these inputs. Is there any way that I would be able to play cd's with the equipment I have? Is there something I can do to make it work?  Many thanks in advance, Jos

Answer
If the  GXT 210  has no aux or tape level input you cannot go directly from the cd player to the mic input.  The nominal ac voltage output level of the cd player is normally around 1 volt.  But the input of a mic input is nominally only .010 volts ac.  Therefore, the signal voltage level it too great for the mic input; it must be padded down with a resistor network.

The voltage pad is just two resistors connected in between the cd output and the  GXT 210  input and will reduce the voltage accordingly.  You could make such a voltage reduction pad or purchase one from a video/audio shop.  They are not expensive.

Let me know if you need more.