CarPC to Amp connection. How to make preamp levels?

**component** · 04-21-2008, 09:53 PM

I am planning out my car computer, and would like to do it without using a headunit, just to keep things as simple as possible.
I have done a lot of searching, but haven't found the specific answer I'm looking for. (probably because I don't know the specific terms to use in this case)
To connect a computer to an amp, what do I need to do to bring the inputs to a preamp level?
I found several posts mentioning a DSP, but that's it. I want to use a small case, without a full size sound card. What are my options?

**scott_fx** · 04-21-2008, 11:05 PM

your soundcard outputs at preamp level all you need is a cable that plugs into your soundcard (3.5mm mini usually) and then the other end will plug into your amp (rca usually)

it's in the faq btw :-)

**JimmyFitz** · 04-21-2008, 11:16 PM

Originally Posted by component

I am planning out my car computer, and would like to do it without using a headunit, just to keep things as simple as possible.
I have done a lot of searching, but haven't found the specific answer I'm looking for. (probably because I don't know the specific terms to use in this case)
To connect a computer to an amp, what do I need to do to bring the inputs to a preamp level?
I found several posts mentioning a DSP, but that's it. I want to use a small case, without a full size sound card. What are my options?

You can use on board sound output from the mobo. This FAQ shows how to hook it up:
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/advf...iew&advfaqid=7

Here is a tiny USB sound device:
http://store.mp3car.com/Turtle_Beach..._p/com-019.htm

**component** · 04-22-2008, 01:58 AM

Thanks, thats exactly what I was looking for.

**srtbrian** · 08-30-2008, 08:28 PM

Will all CarPCs that say Audio like this one http://www.mitxpc.com/proddetail.asp?prod=CPCI16VOOM2 have onboard Audio and can I hook up a 4CH amp and a Mono Amp for my sub?? and have 5.1 Sound? How do I know what place on the rear to hook the 1/8" jacks into? Sorry for the newbe question just need to know.

**digitalmayhem** · 08-30-2008, 10:41 PM

Originally Posted by srtbrian

Will all CarPCs that say Audio like this one http://www.mitxpc.com/proddetail.asp?prod=CPCI16VOOM2 have onboard Audio and can I hook up a 4CH amp and a Mono Amp for my sub?? and have 5.1 Sound? How do I know what place on the rear to hook the 1/8" jacks into? Sorry for the newbe question just need to know.

5.1 is 5 channels plus a sub no? you would have 4.1 right?

**srtbrian** · 08-31-2008, 12:51 AM

I have 6 Speakers for my mids but Im useing a 4CH amp and my dash 3" im hooking into one CH. and then A sub on its own Amp. I think a USB sound card would be best but cant get any good ideas from searching on what everyone is having good luck with

**trextegra** · 09-12-2008, 02:15 PM

i am still in the planning stages of my system and i also want to run without a headunit. computer straight to the amp.. i found this during my research but havent tested it or anything but specs look amasing. http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...on+EQS746.html altho this basically takes the place of a headunit it is much cheaper and perfect for what you want to do. i am planning on using the stock mobo sound run 1/8 to rca adapter to this crossover. the crossover then divides the signal into 6 channels front l/r rear l/r and subwoofer it has a 7 band equilizer which should provide plenty of tuning. a fader note you control left to right from computer volume control sub control plus an aux input for ipod or game system. the greatest feature of all that i love is the 7volt preamps it has cant be beatin... the only problem you face with this is were to mount..