HowTo Wire Radio Speakers to Audio-In on TV-VCR Combo

[clintonG]

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output) of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed. Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires --> amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the TV-VCR.

So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive amplifier? I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your time...

<%= clintonG

 

[Don Bowey]

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to, but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage, producing a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires --> amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one

I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems "common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the center pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a usable
level.

 

[Meat Plow]

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output) of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

Doesn't your radio have a headphone jack? I would try an adapter to rca
then low volume on the radio. Since the line input level is 1 volt P-P you
should be able to adjust the volume low enough to get a decent recording
with a little trial and error recording.

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems "common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to, but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage, producing a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one

I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems "common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a usable
level.

So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

<snip />

I forgot to confirm the white speaker wire comes off the board and goes
directly to one of two speakers wired together (in series?).

//Speakers
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakers.jpg

<%= Clinton

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

Doesn't your radio have a headphone jack? I would try an adapter to rca
then low volume on the radio. Since the line input level is 1 volt P-P you
should be able to adjust the volume low enough to get a decent recording
with a little trial and error recording.

This is an older table top AM-FM radio in a nice wood cabinet and has no
headphone jack. Given instruction I would have no problem rewiring the
existing speakers to a headphone jack if that is plausible or I could use a
cheap contemporary radio with a headphone jack. If neccessary I could
rationalize spending twenty bucks at Target for a cheap radio. All I want to
do is record the late night radio program to tape for playback the next day
and hope for a decent result that is "listenable."

Rewiring speakers to a headphone jack does not sound consistent with Don's
earleir comments however. I'd like to hear Don weigh in again as his earlier
response certainly implies an expertise which may direct me to the optimal
solution. I do know how to solder well. I just don't know jack about the
theory and application of electronics.

 

[Don Bowey]

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems "common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to, but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage, producing a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one

I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems "common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a usable
level.

So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG

I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it with an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton

On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article 46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to, but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage, producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG

I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters. What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply? Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference regarding the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced? Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow? Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!

 

[Don Bowey]

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.


//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton


On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article 46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to, but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage, producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker. If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG

I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters.

Ok. Won't need soldering iron then.

What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply?

That there is a honking big get-hot transistor mounted on it, needing to
shed it's heat to the surroundings.

Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference regarding the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced?

No, I can't see enough detail to be sure. If you can't see if the speaker
wires are connected to it (or that the AC power is wired to it via the power
switch), let's ignore it.

Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow? Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!

Actually, if you could put in a jack that opens the path to the speakers
when a plug is inserted, that would be ok and you might like it because the
speakers would be off while you are recording. Or just add a jack in
parallel with the speakers, but the speakers will be on while you record.

A jack is optional hardware. However, see below.

Since we have no schematic, no meter, and don't know how the amplifier
output interfaces the speakers, and don't know whether the radio or recorder
is AC/DC, there is a safety hazard in going further with the simple plan.

Instead, go to radio shack and buy their el-cheapo 8 Ohms to 1000 Ohms audio
transformer. Connect the 8 Ohm connections to the speaker wires (with or
without a jack), and connect the 1000 Ohm transformer wires to the RCA plug
for connection to the recorder. That is not only safe, but the quality of
the sound may be a bit better.

 

[christopher@NOSPAMoldtemecula.com]

Hello everyone,

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output) of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

Before you blow your power transistor on that classic radio I would go
to Walmart and buy this nice radio that does what you need for under
$50.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4872130


or spend twenty dollars and do it like below with what you have and
$20 of add-on stuff.

********************************************************************

Use a microphone mounted on front of the radio speaker plugged into
this amplifier below.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...rigkw=amplifier&support=support&tab=techSpecs


Then use the cord with plugs below on the amplifiers earphone jack
output into the line input rca input of the VCR.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...+cable+1/8&kw=rca+cable+1/8&parentPage=search


I like George and his radio mannerism, over lunch I would ask him, do
you buy all this creative thinking?

Good Luck,

* * *
Christopher

Temecula CA.USA
http://www.oldtemecula.com

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

On 8/30/07 1:25 PM, in article 46d727bd$0$18914$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.


//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton


On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article
46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in
and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an
external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit
power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to,
but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage,
producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM
radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the
center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a
usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive
amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG






I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it
with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the
radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters.

Ok. Won't need soldering iron then.

What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply?

That there is a honking big get-hot transistor mounted on it, needing to
shed it's heat to the surroundings.

Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference regarding
the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced?

No, I can't see enough detail to be sure. If you can't see if the speaker
wires are connected to it (or that the AC power is wired to it via the
power
switch), let's ignore it.

Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow? Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!

Actually, if you could put in a jack that opens the path to the speakers
when a plug is inserted, that would be ok and you might like it because
the
speakers would be off while you are recording. Or just add a jack in
parallel with the speakers, but the speakers will be on while you record.

A jack is optional hardware. However, see below.

Since we have no schematic, no meter, and don't know how the amplifier
output interfaces the speakers, and don't know whether the radio or
recorder
is AC/DC, there is a safety hazard in going further with the simple plan.

Instead, go to radio shack and buy their el-cheapo 8 Ohms to 1000 Ohms
audio
transformer. Connect the 8 Ohm connections to the speaker wires (with or
without a jack), and connect the 1000 Ohm transformer wires to the RCA
plug
for connection to the recorder. That is not only safe, but the quality of
the sound may be a bit better.

I'll try to get to Radio Shack tommorrow but I'm trying the mic through amp
tonight suggested by christopher.

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

Hello everyone,

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

Before you blow your power transistor on that classic radio I would go
to Walmart and buy this nice radio that does what you need for under
$50.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4872130


or spend twenty dollars and do it like below with what you have and
$20 of add-on stuff.

********************************************************************

Use a microphone mounted on front of the radio speaker plugged into
this amplifier below.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...rigkw=amplifier&support=support&tab=techSpecs


Then use the cord with plugs below on the amplifiers earphone jack
output into the line input rca input of the VCR.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...+cable+1/8&kw=rca+cable+1/8&parentPage=search


I like George and his radio mannerism, over lunch I would ask him, do
you buy all this creative thinking?

Good Luck,

* * *
Christopher

Temecula CA.USA
http://www.oldtemecula.com

I happen to have a little teeny amp which is a 9V knock-off of a Fender Mini
Twin guitar amp. Wierd though, tried to power the amp with a 9V transformer
I found that powers cheap computer speakers The 9V transformer gets frying
pan hot and the amp just hums. Can't get no sound through the mic.

Then used 9V battery for testing and I get sound from the radio through the
mic but I'm still not getting the sound from the amp to record on the VCR
using Line 1. I know the amp is passing the sound through as I can get in
with headphones.

Can use the TV-VCR combo to record a movie for example on Ch 3 just fine to
the VCR so I know the TV-VCR recorder works and I playback sound and
picture.

The 1/8" to RCA cable used to patch amp to TV-VCR was found around the house
and came from Radio Shack and is in like new condition. Tried both Audio In
on TV interfaces but still no joy. Could it be something as stupid as uisng
Line 2 instead of Line 1 on TV-VCR? Don't know until tomorrow... What does
Line 1 and Line 2 imply anyway?

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

Hello everyone,

I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers (output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

Before you blow your power transistor on that classic radio I would go
to Walmart and buy this nice radio that does what you need for under
$50.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4872130


or spend twenty dollars and do it like below with what you have and
$20 of add-on stuff.

********************************************************************

Use a microphone mounted on front of the radio speaker plugged into
this amplifier below.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...rigkw=amplifier&support=support&tab=techSpecs


Then use the cord with plugs below on the amplifiers earphone jack
output into the line input rca input of the VCR.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/i...+cable+1/8&kw=rca+cable+1/8&parentPage=search


I like George and his radio mannerism, over lunch I would ask him, do
you buy all this creative thinking?

Good Luck,

* * *
Christopher

Temecula CA.USA
http://www.oldtemecula.com

I got the mic and the amp all worked out and use headphones to confirm the
amp is picking up the audio from the mic for output. Can't get the damn
TV-VCR to record despite the correct 1/8" to RCA cord to Audio Input on the
TV-VCR. Tried both quick record mode and timed record mode neither want to
record the Audio In when TV-VCR is set to Line 1 or Line 2. Out of options
for now but appreciate the great idea...

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

On 8/30/07 1:25 PM, in article 46d727bd$0$18914$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.


//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton


On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article
46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in
and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an
external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit
power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to,
but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage,
producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM
radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the
center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a
usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive
amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG






I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it
with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the
radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters.

Ok. Won't need soldering iron then.

What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply?

That there is a honking big get-hot transistor mounted on it, needing to
shed it's heat to the surroundings.

Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference regarding
the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced?

No, I can't see enough detail to be sure. If you can't see if the speaker
wires are connected to it (or that the AC power is wired to it via the
power
switch), let's ignore it.

Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow? Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!

Actually, if you could put in a jack that opens the path to the speakers
when a plug is inserted, that would be ok and you might like it because
the
speakers would be off while you are recording. Or just add a jack in
parallel with the speakers, but the speakers will be on while you record.

A jack is optional hardware. However, see below.

Since we have no schematic, no meter, and don't know how the amplifier
output interfaces the speakers, and don't know whether the radio or
recorder
is AC/DC, there is a safety hazard in going further with the simple plan.

Instead, go to radio shack and buy their el-cheapo 8 Ohms to 1000 Ohms
audio
transformer. Connect the 8 Ohm connections to the speaker wires (with or
without a jack), and connect the 1000 Ohm transformer wires to the RCA
plug
for connection to the recorder. That is not only safe, but the quality of
the sound may be a bit better.

No 8 Ohm to 1000 Ohm audio transformers to be found in stock by any
electronics or audio shops around Milwaukeeville. Typical for this deadbeat
region. So working both angles here and with the Meat Plow mic --> amp
suggestion but at stand still with TV-VCR which just won't record for me
using Line 1 or Line 2 from Audio In noting all other recording is a-okay.
Stumped for now but appreciate the time and attention. I'm going to work
this out one way or another...

 

[christopher@NOSPAMoldtemecula.com]

Hello,

I got the mic and the amp all worked out and use headphones to confirm the
amp is picking up the audio from the mic for output. Can't get the damn
TV-VCR to record despite the correct 1/8" to RCA cord to Audio Input on the
TV-VCR. Tried both quick record mode and timed record mode neither want to
record the Audio In when TV-VCR is set to Line 1 or Line 2. Out of options
for now but appreciate the great idea...

My own advise leaves me one possible conclusion. I think the VCR needs
a input signal of around 3v p-p and the amplifier audio out is down
around < 1 volt to drive a speaker or earphone. Any thing recorded on
the VCR would me very quiet.

If my workbench was not so cluttered with my disassembled Theremin
project I would set up and test a couple of ideas. My theremin audio
can output 3 volts p-p.


* * *
Christopher

Temecula CA.USA
http://www.oldtemecula.com

 

[Michael Black]

Hello,



My own advise leaves me one possible conclusion. I think the VCR needs
a input signal of around 3v p-p and the amplifier audio out is down
around < 1 volt to drive a speaker or earphone. Any thing recorded on
the VCR would me very quiet.

They say at least some VCRs won't record audio unless there is a video
signal.

I have no direct experience with this, and have no idea how wide
spread it is, but this seems more likely a culprit than anything
else.

Michael

 

[Don Bowey]

On 8/30/07 1:25 PM, in article 46d727bd$0$18914$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.


//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton


On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article
46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs, one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in
and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an
external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit
power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to,
but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage,
producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM
radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?) to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the
center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a
usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive
amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for your
time...

<%= clintonG






I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it
with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage (AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the
radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters.

Ok. Won't need soldering iron then.

What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply?

That there is a honking big get-hot transistor mounted on it, needing to
shed it's heat to the surroundings.

Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference regarding
the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced?

No, I can't see enough detail to be sure. If you can't see if the speaker
wires are connected to it (or that the AC power is wired to it via the
power
switch), let's ignore it.

Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow? Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!

Actually, if you could put in a jack that opens the path to the speakers
when a plug is inserted, that would be ok and you might like it because
the
speakers would be off while you are recording. Or just add a jack in
parallel with the speakers, but the speakers will be on while you record.

A jack is optional hardware. However, see below.

Since we have no schematic, no meter, and don't know how the amplifier
output interfaces the speakers, and don't know whether the radio or
recorder
is AC/DC, there is a safety hazard in going further with the simple plan.

Instead, go to radio shack and buy their el-cheapo 8 Ohms to 1000 Ohms
audio
transformer. Connect the 8 Ohm connections to the speaker wires (with or
without a jack), and connect the 1000 Ohm transformer wires to the RCA
plug
for connection to the recorder. That is not only safe, but the quality of
the sound may be a bit better.

No 8 Ohm to 1000 Ohm audio transformers to be found in stock by any
electronics or audio shops around Milwaukeeville. Typical for this deadbeat
region. So working both angles here and with the Meat Plow mic --> amp
suggestion but at stand still with TV-VCR which just won't record for me
using Line 1 or Line 2 from Audio In noting all other recording is a-okay.
Stumped for now but appreciate the time and attention. I'm going to work
this out one way or another...

Just a thought - Are you sure a VCR will record audio without the presence
of video?

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

On 8/30/07 5:48 PM, in article 46d76556$0$32492$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,

On 8/30/07 1:25 PM, in article
46d727bd$0$18914$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,

Hello Don,
Thanks for your time and your sage advice. Take a look at the images
of
the
board for the radio and let me know what you may make of them per the
following...

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one
is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.


//SpeakerWire
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/speakerwire.jpg

//ObliqueView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/obliqueview.jpg

//TopView
http://metromilwaukee.com/images/radio/topview.jpg


<%= Clinton


On 8/30/07 9:42 AM, in article
46d6f389$0$19607$4c368faf@roadrunner.com,


I like to record the Coast To Coast AM radio program which airs on
local
radio from 12am to 5am nightly. I have a TV-VCR combo that will
support
recording an external source.

In the front of the TV-VCR there are two female RCA [1] inputs,
one
input
labeled Video and the other input labeled Audio. In the rear of
the
TV-VCR
there are -- two pairs -- of RCA inputs, one pair labeled Audio in
and
Audio
out and the other pair labeled Audio in and Audio out.

I know I can set the TV-VCR to Line 1 to record input from an
external
device. Can somebody help explain to me how to wire the speakers
(output)
of
an AM radio to interface with the TV-VCR to enable recording radio
programming (input) to the VCR?

<%= clintonG

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connector

Okay searching the web I just learned the speaker wires transmit
power
and
not a 1:1 audio signal as I ignorantly presumed.

The speaker wires carry an audio signal (an AC voltage) to a low
impedance
speaker (probably about 8 Ohms). The speaker impedance (similar to,
but
more complex than resistance) presents a load on the voltage,
producing
a
current flow in the speaker wires. The product of the voltage and
current
is power.

Forum discussions say I
must use an amplifier inline i.e. AM radio speaker wires -->
amplifier -->
TV-VCR Audio In.

Your forum discussion group is, in my experience, wrong on this one


I don't really understand how power can become audio when amplified

You should discard this idea. Further study, if wanted, will
explain
the
conditions much better.

but if
that's all that it is I know I am using an older table top AM-FM
radio
which
will need to have an amplifier to record the radio's audio using
the
TV-VCR.

No external amplifier is needed.

Your recorder's audio input has a very high impedance, which means
the
signal audio voltage will drive it easily.

If your AM radio uses an audio output transformer, find the
connections
from
it to the speaker, and see if both wires go directly to the speaker.
If
they don't then one of them is probably connected to the systems
"common"
somewhere. Connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack. If one
is
not
connected to common, connect it to the shell of your male RCA jack.

Connect one end of a low power, 100,000 Ohm resistor (radio shack?)
to
the
other speaker wire. Connect the other end of the resistor to the
center
pin
of the RCA jack.

Turn the radio volume down low, and plug the RCA jack into the audio
input
of your recorder. While recording, turn the radio volume up to a
usable
level.


So what might be your recommendation for the least expensive
amplifier?
I'll
be calling Radio Shack to learn what may be learned. Thanks for
your
time...

<%= clintonG






I can't tell if the transformer shown is a power transformer or an
audio
output transformer. If you can't trace the wire by eye, or check it
with
an
Ohmmeter....... Hmmm!

Do you have a Volt/Ohmmeter? If yes, then first measure for voltage
(AC
and
DC) between the outer shell of the audio input jack, and each of the
radio
speaker wires. If there is no voltage, then measure for resistance
between
the same points. If there is no voltage and no continuity (n low
resistance) then it doesn't matter which wire goes where.

Otherwise..... Do you have a soldering iron?

Have soldering iron and good at soldering but no meters.

Ok. Won't need soldering iron then.


What does the large
obstructive metal shield wrapped around the transformer imply?

That there is a honking big get-hot transistor mounted on it, needing to
shed it's heat to the surroundings.

Load the
SpeakerWire.jpg and ObliqueView.jpg links above. Any inference
regarding
the
determination of transformer type which may be deduced?

No, I can't see enough detail to be sure. If you can't see if the
speaker
wires are connected to it (or that the AC power is wired to it via the
power
switch), let's ignore it.

Your comments
regarding my reply to a headphone hack as suggested by Meat Plow?
Doesn't
sound plausible or consistent with what I've learned from your earlier
comments. Jees, this topic deserves to be blogged for posterity!


Actually, if you could put in a jack that opens the path to the speakers
when a plug is inserted, that would be ok and you might like it because
the
speakers would be off while you are recording. Or just add a jack in
parallel with the speakers, but the speakers will be on while you
record.

A jack is optional hardware. However, see below.

Since we have no schematic, no meter, and don't know how the amplifier
output interfaces the speakers, and don't know whether the radio or
recorder
is AC/DC, there is a safety hazard in going further with the simple
plan.

Instead, go to radio shack and buy their el-cheapo 8 Ohms to 1000 Ohms
audio
transformer. Connect the 8 Ohm connections to the speaker wires (with
or
without a jack), and connect the 1000 Ohm transformer wires to the RCA
plug
for connection to the recorder. That is not only safe, but the quality
of
the sound may be a bit better.

No 8 Ohm to 1000 Ohm audio transformers to be found in stock by any
electronics or audio shops around Milwaukeeville. Typical for this
deadbeat
region. So working both angles here and with the Meat Plow mic --> amp
suggestion but at stand still with TV-VCR which just won't record for me
using Line 1 or Line 2 from Audio In noting all other recording is
a-okay.
Stumped for now but appreciate the time and attention. I'm going to work
this out one way or another...

Just a thought - Are you sure a VCR will record audio without the presence
of video?

Duh. As it turns out I called the company supporting BrokSonic TV-VCR combo
later this morning and they told me recording would in fact be mute without
a video channel. So this project has crashed and burned for the moment and I
have to try to cobble together other equipment. Thanks so much for your time
and efforts...

 

[911 Was An Inside Job]

They say at least some VCRs won't record audio unless there is a video
signal.

I have no direct experience with this, and have no idea how wide
spread it is, but this seems more likely a culprit than anything
else.

Michael

Well, its true for the BrokSonic...

As it turns out I called the company supporting BrokSonic TV-VCR combo later
this morning and they told me recording would in fact be mute without a
video signal. So this project has crashed and burned for the moment and I
have to try to cobble together other equipment. Thanks so much for your time
and efforts...