If you want your mixtapes and your favorite playlist on your computer to fill your entire room, then learn how to connect stereo speakers to a computer. Doing so will allow you to maximize your stereo systems. You can also edit your songs and record audio files more conveniently through this setup.
However, for simple streaming purposes, you can also invest in computer speakers, which are easier to hook up and install. However, for professional audio purposes, your speakers can turn your computer into a reliable music machine. Doing so requires a few cables connected in the correct places.
Connecting Stereo System into a Computer
To crank up your computer’s audio quality, here’s how to connect stereo speakers to the computer:
- Tune-down the volume of your stereo and your computer’s sound card. If you cannot locate the sound card on your computer, you can opt to turn it off to prevent any instant bursts of music.
- For this setup, you’ll need the right cables. Find or purchase a Y-adapter that has a stereo plug on one end and two RCA phone plugs on the other. Most computer and electronic stores have these types of cables available. These cables are usually labeled as male stereo and male RCA plugs.
- Some computer or stereo sets come with a free Y-adapter. However, if you cannot find one, you can buy one since they are generally affordable. If your computer is a bit far from your stereo setup, find a longer stereo cable to do the job. You can ask your local electronic store to help you find the right cable for this setup.
- Locate your sound card’s speaker jack and plug in your stereo jack. Most sound cards come with labels, so you’ll easily see where to hook up what. However, if yours do not have a guide, check your user manual or find any online reference.
- Connect the RCA phono cables into your stereo’s Aux Input jacks. Aux input jacks are usually located at the back of your stereo. Find either an Aux Input or Tape Input. Most jacks are color-coded for easy guide. Now, connect the red cord to the red-colored jack. Do the same for the colors black, white, or green. Hook up the same color so you don’t get your cables mixed up.
- Turn On your stereo and shift it to Aux Input or Tape Input. Depending on which jack you used, select the settings you’ve used.
- Try playing a song to check if the connection is successful. Adjust the volume according to your preference. If you still cannot hear any sound, try to re-plug the cables and make sure you hooked them up in the right jacks.
Other Considerations
Stereo speakers do not work as your regular computer speakers. A close setup might damage your computer hardware. Thus, keep a safe distance between the two devices. For simple audio use, you can buy a computer speaker instead to save yourself from figuring out how to connect stereo speakers to a computer.
Try to hide the cables under your carpet to secure them at the edge of the wall to avoid guests from flipping over them. Cords lying across the floor can cause possible accidents and damages to your devices.
You can plug your cables even when your computer is running. Current OS notifies you when you plug in a cable or cord to your computer. Sometimes, it will also notify you if the connection is unsuccessful.
Test your speakers after completing how to connect stereo speakers to the computer. However, do it gradually. Stereo speakers can sometimes be too loud. You wouldn’t want to shock your ears with loud music. Try to adjust the speakers to your preferred setup.
You don’t need any additional drivers to complete this process. Most speakers have a plug and play feature that does not require any app or drivers to work. Want more awesome audio tech hacks? Go here!
Conclusion
Most people opt to purchase computer speakers to improve the audio quality of their computers. However, if you need a hardcore music setup, you can utilize your stereo system to do the job for you. Figuring out how to connect stereo speakers to a computer should be done carefully since the speakers’ power might sometimes be damaging to your computer hardware. So take precautions and always refer to the guide above on how to do so correctly.