2. pc-audio
  3. 1221063079

Connecting my laptop to my home audio...

Out of curiousity, I wanted to know what my laptop as a source (Pandora internet radio) would sound like through my home audio speakers. I used an inexpensive Radio Shack 1/8" mini from the headphone jack on the laptop on one end with male RCA's to connect to my preamp on the other end. I was amazed at how good it actually sounded.

My question to you is: Has anyone ever compared this inexpensive cable from Radio Shack to the more expensive offerings from Kimber, Audioquest, Cardas, etc? Did you notice much improvement in the sound?

Thank you for your thoughts and comments.
no_regrets

Showing 1 response by cwlondon

cwlondon
1,210 posts
 
Yes, you must kill the mini jack. For < $30, this will be a vast improvement:

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/pshowdetl.cfm?&Partnumber=248-599&CFID=2275801&CFTOKEN=21576422

Depending on your other components and/or DAC, you could also use the optical out, which might yield an even bigger improvement.

I use this type of set up for all my computers, both at home and in the office.

Moving up in price, you could try the Hagerman Technology interface box for about $150 (?)......

Finally, there seem to be more and more DACs which take a USB input directly.

Good luck,
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