brian, whsn i shorted the analog inputs, the tube warmth light stopped working, which is what happens when ya remove the a-to-d chip. i figured the chip can't be getting much signal if the whole circuit is shorted out. this, removing the tube, using the 3.4v power-supply instead of the stock 1.3v unit, should be sufficient, no? i'm no electronics expert, tho... ;~)
speaking of 3.4v power-supplies, i found an atari p/s w/the same specs as the $20-$30 stancor, for only $4 at hosfelt - after i'd already bought my stancor from radio shack... ;~)
regards,
doug s.