QuestionI have a very old Toshiba receiver amp. It has only one input channel which is for a non pre-amped record deck. I want to connect a CD player instead.
I bought an Aiwa CD player in a junk shop and connected it up. I guess the CD player has a pre-amp because there was a loud hum/buzz and then when playing the volume was several times louder than expected and quite distorted. The player does not have a headphone output.
What do I need to do/make to put between the two units to obtain the right input signal. I can use a soldering iron but would prefer a ready made gizmo if such a thing is available.
Thanks
Ron
AnswerI have never seen a Toshiba receiver that does not have an aux input! This would be for the cd player.
And the Aiwa cd player is likely not a cd player only, but a system such as radio/cassette/cd or some combination. The output is probably a speaker output and is causing the hum and is overloading the tape input on your receiver. But, doesn't the Aiwa have a volume control on it? If you give me a model number it can be checked out as to exactly what it is. And, are you sure it is working properly?
You can put a potentiometer or a pad in the line to reduce the level.
You can pad the level down by using 3 resistors. Two in series with the line (one in each line) and the third one across the line just before it plugs into the receiver.
The value of the resistors will depend on how much attenuation you need. Let me suggest you start with 10k ohms for the two series resistors and 1k ohm for the shunt resistor across the input end of the line. This will give you about 20 db reduction in level.
Another thing you can do which will cost only a few cents more is go to Walmart and purchase a new cd player for $9.97; it has volume control and headphone outputs and sounds pretty nice. A step up for $19 will give shock memory and little be better sound. Both will sound better than the Aiwa if it is really old.
C
PS: The hum from the Aiwa could be a bad cap inside indicating repair is needed.
