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Reddit mentions of SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply Black

Sentiment score: 36
Reddit mentions: 59

We found 59 Reddit mentions of SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply Black. Here are the top ones.

SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply Black
Buying options
View on Amazon.com
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    Features:
  • SA-36A Pro is TI Texas Instruments TDA7492PE as the core the use of high-quality digital amplifier EPCOS
  • 8 large capacity power supply filter capacitor filter Panasonic reserves required to solve large dynamic bursting
  • SA-36A Pro with Texas Instruments simplest design schematics design standards
  • Try to use the least the best material for the principle Avoid unnecessary coloration to the highest possible degree of reduction of musical flavor
Specs:
ColorBlack
Height2.5 Inches
Length5 Inches
Number of items1
Release dateSeptember 2018
Weight0.661386786 Pounds
Width1.3 Inches

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Found 59 comments on SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply Black:

u/polypeptide147 · 20 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

I'll make a list of stuff you need. For the best "bang for your buck" in the $200ish price range.

-----------------------------------------

Speaker wire. Amazon Basics makes great stuff. If you want, you can get 100 feet of it for an extra $2 I think. You can get those monoprice banana plugs if you want. They just help if you're going to be switching speakers around a lot.

Simple wire stripper. Should work just fine.

Cable to plug it in. That'll just plug the amp into a computer. And that cable is amazing quality. For real. I don't know what it is about it, but the moment I touched that cable I knew it was special. This isn't a joke either. You'll understand when you get one. Trust me.

50 watt per channel amp. This thing will be more than enough. I just like it because it is open box, so cheap. The same one new on amazon is $65. If you want to order from amazon, you can just get the smsl sa-36a. Same amp, just 20 watts per channel. Which, again, is plenty.

[Here's that cheaper smsl amp] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_U2NSBbTRHGFS5). I've got a few of them. They're great. This is what I'd go for if the other one is sold out.

Cheap but good little amp. I don't have one of these because I'm not a fan of the looks, but they get great reviews and a lot of people really like them.

---------------

Speakers:

Miccas. These things are nice for that price. In this price range, you really won't be getting anything better unless you go DIY.

Fluance SX6. These guys are big, but they throw a good amount of sound and some pretty deep bass for a pair of bookshelf speakers. Careful, they're pretty big.

Pioneer. These things are decent, but I think the Fluances would be better for this price. The SX6s throw more bass, which is good if you're not getting a sub. However, these are smaller.

Fluance signature series. I know, you said your budget is only $200, but you said if you need to spend more, then you will. These will sound better than all of the other speakers linked, however, that's not why they're here. I put them here for two reasons. The first is that they're front ported. Most people that are new to speakers might put them up against a wall or close to it, not understanding that the port needs some room to breathe. These have front ports so that's not a problem. The second reason, just look at them. If you really care about looks, these ones are the ones. They're beautiful. (My opinion obviously).

Oof almost forgot. Pleaae don't place the speakers directly on your desk.

--------------------------------

That's a lot. I'll sum it up with my opinion and why.

Amp: smsl sa36a. For close range, you don't need anything with more power. This thing will do whatever you need for bookshelf speakers.

Speakers: micca mb42x. Why? Here's why: for this price range, you won't notice a huge difference in any speakers, unless you get some bad ones. So, get the cheapest ones you can. Later on, if you can afford to upgrade them, you'll probably want to do that. Then you'll have a pair of $80 speakers that you don't need rather than a pair of 130 speakers that you don't need. Another reason I would pick the miccas is because they punch above their price range. Most people say they sound more like a pair of $125 speakers rather than a pair of $80 speakers. So, for real, they're good. Also, they're the smallest of the bunch.

Or, build a pair of C Notes and get something way better than any of these.

Hope this helps!

u/sharkamino · 10 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

Then choose your quality level with a corresponding budget:

Lowest entry level mini amp and speakers: $50 6-1/2" 2-Way Bookshelf Speaker Pair and Hi-Fi Mini Amplifier Bundle.

A step up mini amp and speakers: $120 SMSL SA-36A $52 with Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2" with AMT Tweeter speakers $52 with Speaker Wire and wire tool.

Receiver and better speakers: Around $300 to $400. Look for similar used for the best value.

Receiver: Refurbished with a 1 year manufacturer warranty.

Stereo: ONKYO TX-8220 $135, or ONKYO TX-8140 $200.

Or AV: For use with a TV even with just 2 speakers, 4K HDMI switching, high pass crossover for your speakers if ever adding a subwoofer.

u/The_Lesser_Weasel · 6 pointsr/buildapcsales

Currently I'm using this which is overkill for these speakers, but I got it for a good price and I wanted something that could comfortably power beefier speakers down the line.

The old recommendation was to get a Lepai 2020a, but since those no-longer use the Tripath chips, I'd go with something like the SMSL SA36 or SA50.

u/AverageJoeAudiophile · 5 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

Go used.

Do this and only this.

Get a pair of Infinity Primus P140/P142/P143 on ebay. These are great little bookshelf speakers. Or the p150/p152/p153. Which ever pair you find cheaper is fine as the sub will make up for the lower frequencies.

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1500-15-150-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-634

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Infinity-Primus-HCS-SAT-Pair-Of-Speakers-Black-With-Covers-Quality-Sound-Heavy-/112537557722?hash=item1a33c2dada:g:GqgAAOSwyI5ZnYYO

Then get one of these subs.

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1500-15-150-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-634

Then if all you need is basic desktop use get this amp

https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-50Wx2-TDA7492-Amplifier-Adapter/dp/B00F0H8TOC/

if that is breaking the budget get this,

https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0/


You'll have a killer 2.1 desktop set up. Now go do it right now.

u/NotSelfAware · 4 pointsr/hometheater

Don't listen to people telling you that you can't get anything for that budget. It won't be perfect and you won't get a dedicated sub for that price, but if you start small you can start with a very good base to upgrade from. Get a simple amp such as this 2 channel SMSL amp for £43 from Amazon, and pair it with these Tannoy Eclipse Mini bookshelves from Richer Sounds. (You'll also need some speaker wire which you can order from Richer Sounds too.) It won't replicate a full 5.1 system but for the money the quality will be hard to beat, and when the time comes you can upgrade at your own pace to a much better setup. From there you can upgrade first to a cheap 5.1 receiver, then some towers and move the Tannoy's to rears, and eventually a centre and a sub and you'll have a decent system while minimising waste.

u/Dionysiokolax · 3 pointsr/buildapcsales

My bad. I just checked and I actually have the SA-36A, which I can confirm works just fine coming directly from my PC.

u/ocinn · 3 pointsr/audiophile

You are trying to plug speakers into a line level source. You need an amp. I honestly don't even know how you managed to solder speaker wire to rca jacks.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HRR5AWQ/

u/lovetape · 3 pointsr/buildapcsales

How 'cheap'?

Rock bottom cheap, $29 for a Dayton Audio w/Headphone out is pretty cheap. you get what you pay for, if clean sound is what you want this is not the amp for you


If you want a better quality amp, go with the SMSL SA-36A for $51. more expensive, but SMSL is a solid quality small amp maker

u/thuynhreddit · 3 pointsr/buildapcsales

Easiest is to get 3.5mm plug to RCA jacks wire. The 3.5mm plug would be connected to the sound card on the computer. The RCA jacks go to your amp/receiver. From there, you have to get speaker wires to connect amp/receiver to these speakers.

The link to the DAC is for heaphones and can't be used with these speakers. The connections aren't there and more importantly doesn't provide enough power to drive these speakers. That DAC would connect to your computer using a usb connection. Other's have linked two possible amps you could use with these speakers.

https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-DTA3116HP-Amplifier-Headphone/dp/B01ETJ3Z3Q
https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0

u/steve3236 · 3 pointsr/buildapcsales

If you are willing to spend a little more you can pick up a cheap 2.0 digital amp off amazon and get some small bookshelf speakers like you were saying.

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B009IUIV4A/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1480922309&sr=1-3&keywords=bookshelf+speaker


https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480922292&sr=8-2&keywords=smsl

Although this cost about twice the price I would be willing to say its worth it.

u/Siegfried262 · 3 pointsr/buildapc

For 250 my recommendation would be a pair of Philharmonic Affordable Accuracy Monitors paired with a suitable amplifier. They're easily the best speakers I've used. Great imaging, very clear and detailed, and amazing bass for a 2.0 setup.

I got along with a basic Lepai amplifier with an upgraded power supply which did better than I expected to. Otherwise you could probably get away with an SMSL-SA36 if you're not blasting them.

For the money though, I bet you could find a used receiver for a great deal off your local craigslist.

I currently run them with an SMSL SA-160 which does an amazing job of driving them but would push you out of your budget.

Alternatively, I've also used the Micca MB42Xs paired with the same Lepai as above and it's a fantastic budget-oriented setup which doesn't take up too much space.

u/MasterKat72098 · 2 pointsr/audiophile

Hi quick question, I purchased two Micca MB42X speakers and one SMSL amplifier . I thought they would come with cords to connect the speaker to the amp, but they did not. So what type of wire/cord should I purchase to be able to connect these two pieces?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E7H8GG2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017W13OR0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

u/archetype4 · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

a cheap DAC will help clean up any noise that you'd likely be getting otherwise from the mobo's line out. I got this cheap one to stack with an SMSL 36A Pro amp. Plenty of volume for me. The downside to the DAC is it only supports 44.1/16, and the 48/16 implementation is flawed according to reviews noting some increased distortion. so a better DAC like this guy might be better, and gives you a decent headphone amp, but puts you over your budget.

u/BurtonGoutster · 2 pointsr/buildapcsales

You can get decent bookshelf speakers, a desktop amp, and speaker wire for about $150 and it will sound far better than a soundbar

Speakers $80

Amp $47

Speaker wire $10

u/HarryTheCaveman · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

The Diamond 9.0s are currently £39.99 at Richer Sounds. With that saving I'd upgrade your amp to the SMSL SA-36 or the SA-50. I'm also making a budget 2.0 setup and the general consensus I've found is that you're better off spending an extra tenner on the SA-36 than the LEPY.

u/ldeas_man · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

unless you plan on buying an Atmos-supported receiver and running surround sound, you will get no benefit from those speakers. the normal non-Atmos speakers are currently $99 right now, so I'd suggest just getting those instead

>is it fine to buy a <$50 amp or should I hunt for a used one on craigslist/facebook?

nah, that's fine. people over estimate the power they need, especially for desk setups. 10W continuous @ 8ohms is more than enough for the majority of circumstances, and you can find a lot of amplifiers with that much power for $50. this SMSL SA-36A should be fine for you. but again there's a good amount of options out there. I'd only recommend buying used if you want/need more power, but that's not really applicable in your case. and for $50, even used, you're gonna mostly find 10+ year old AV receivers, with not many useful features (no HDMI, no bluetooth, no wifi, etc)

u/MisterHays · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

The Pioneer BS 22s are recommended quite a bit in that price range. They're a touch on the warm side so if your looking for detailed sparkling highs you might look at something else.

Also since those are a bit under your budget you might consider picking up a SMSL SA36 instead of the lepai. They should be pretty similar, but the SMSL will probably go a little louder before distorting.

u/rauland · 2 pointsr/bapcsalesaustralia

Some people think the THX logo is a tweeter. (The THX is not a tweeter)

Here's a review http://noaudiophile.com/Logitech_z623/

I don't like the z623 personally, the satellites sound thin and the subwoofer plays too much midrange.

If you think soundbars sound awesome then get a z623. $70 is cheap for audio with bass.

But if you're after better audio then we run into problems.

Some say the Edifier bookshelf speakers are good, The Edifier R1280T No bluetooth is currently on sale. I can't vouch for it for long term listening but I did hear one in person briefly in a store, sounded decent but unsure which model it was.

You can try a Voll 50 Passive speaker and hook it up with a SMSL Audio SA-36A or SMSL AD18 amp. You will need your own speaker wire if you go that route and it obviously all these audio components aren't cheap.

If you want to add a subwoofer in the future then the SMSL AD18 is the way to go, as it has sub-out.

TL;DR
Keep it simple with the Logitech and enjoy the bass or get serious and spend some more money.

u/didntwantaredditacct · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

You'd want at least 20 watts at 4 ohms with < 1% THD. A lot of amps are rated at 10% THD which is useless. If on a budget, look at the SMSL-36A https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_MX0JDbY293T7X

Power output: 2 x 20 watts @ 4 ohms, 2 x 12 watts @ 8 ohms • Frequency response: 20-22,000 Hz • THD+N: <0.1% • SNR: 102 dB

u/jallsopp · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

Wharfedale Diamond 9.1

SMSL SA-36A

That's going to sound pretty great for the money. Since your on a faitly low budget, I'd highly recommend looking into second hand gear. £140 would go quite a long way. Check Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace, plenty of great finds on there for next to nothing.

u/lattiboy · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

So, if you like the convenience of the Pill, but want more ooomph, I've gotta recommend the Logitech UE Boombox. It's been discontinued, but you can get new or practically new models on eBay for 70 bucks or so.

I've owned a lot of nice Bluetooth speakers, and some decent audio gear, and pound for pound nothing really touches the thing.

I would recommend heading up your local Goodwill or other thrift store for speakers and an old receiver. With a pretty minimal amount of footwork, you can grab something that probably cost $1000 back in the day for $100.

Skip Marantz as it's really over priced at this point, but brands like Realistic, Rotel, Sansui, and Pioneer are still affordable. They look cool as shit, and have a nice distinctive sound. You can probably get a low-end 20 or 30 W per channel Realistic off craigslist or at your local thrift shop for 30 bucks.

You can then get a nice set of Boston Acoustic or Polk audio speakers for another 50 bucks. Just make sure the foam around the subwoofers is fine, and that the tweeters aren't busted. Most people are happy to hook them up for you to listen to.

If you don't want to mess with older stuff, grab one of these :

ttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hg16xbX21C1NM

And a set of these:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Ih16xb227QN96

And two of these:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011LXUKE0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5j16xb4JV5NZ5

Alternatively, grab the amp and wires new, and then get the speakers used off eBay or Craigslist or whatever. Speakers lose value at an alarming rate, but at the sub-$100 price point you're not really risking much.

For reference, I got a set of B+W CM2 speakers for $90 off Craigslist. They were almost $1000 new 12 years ago.

u/Armsc · 2 pointsr/audio

So it looks like you have a computer speaker set that had a simple 2.1 setup. Computer into the bass module and then some single RCA connectors for each speaker. These ran to the Gale towers. The problem that you have is inside the bass module is an 3 channel amp. One for the "sub" and one each for the mains.

The new SW150 only has one a one channel amp and it's for the sub. You'll need to either feel it with a low level signal from an AVR/computer or a high level signal from an amplifier that will power your speakers.

Here is the what you need to make it work. Go from the computer to the amp with the cable. Then from the amp output to the sub speaker inputs then go back out to the towers from those same terminals. This will allow you to control the volume with either your computer or the amp. You can also split the signal coming from your computer and go into both the amp and sub with separate RCA cables but you won't be able to control the volume of both with the amp. You'll have to do it with your computer after you level match the sub and amp.

Amp - SMSL SA36 £33

Cable - 3.5mm to RCA £5 to go from the computer to the amp.

Speaker wire £11 to go from the amp to the sub then the sub to the towers.

u/tempsgk · 2 pointsr/BudgetAudiophile

I see, I will get the diamonds then. Also I will ditch the Lepy 2024A amp, and instead go with the more expensive SMSL SA-36A

The Lepy have apparently very annoying LED lights, the SMSL looks to be less annoying. Also with the change in amplifier it looks like its not compatible with the 3.5 to 3.5mm cable. So will this do instead? By connecting the phono cables to the L and R on the AMP and the 3.5 to my motherboard.

u/Rrussell2060 · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

You were planning on spending about $60 dollars for a DAC and Amp. In that price range you should consider the SMSL Audio SA-36A Amplifier : https://amzn.com/B017W13OR0. The Lepai amp is a good hobby amp but can be unreliable, I have owned a couple of them and have had them fail.

When you mean headphone out, that is just the green port on my I/O port correct? Yes

  1. I just need to swap it to a 3.5mm to the RCA into the amp: Yes

  2. Speaker wire from amp to the Ensemble speakers.: yes
u/ZaphodBeeblebrox · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

Are these good enough Link

u/SeanAngelo · 1 pointr/headphones

Alright, I'm looking for another amp that will be more or less better than the FiiO E10K that I picked up along with my 250 Ohm DT770's. I was looking at some SMSL products on Amazon UK.

 
These in particular: (ranked from lowest to highest price)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B017W13OR0/ref=pd_sim_23_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=6ESY4HYBBZ5V4NCKTVGE
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B013HL9NVK/ref=s9_dcacsd_rdc_bw_c_x_1_w?th=1
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01C2OAANI/ref=s9_dcacsd_rdc_bw_c_x_3_w
 
Which one would be the best in driving my DT770's? I know my FiiO E10K is enough to drive it but let's pretend that I don't own an amp at the moment of time. Which one would you recommend for driving them?

 

Bear in mind,
-I will be using my computer as the main source of music (Spotify/iTunes to be exact.)
-I also have a Sharp XL-DAB151 speakers, I also want to connect that to my amp if possible to get the best sound from it.
-It has two RCA ports on the back (left and right, the 3.5mm jack is plugged into my on-board audio on my motherboard) so does that mean I need an amp with similar ports too? I noticed that SMSL M3 and the SMSL SD793II also has it, would that be the ideal amp?
-Is there any difference between a USB powered amp and a wall powered amp?

 

So basically,
-I need to drive my DT770's and hook up my speakers to it.

-I would like to be able to switch between the two audio devices, switching to the speaker when I'm not using my headphones.

-Want to keep it under £100 ($125). Preferably around the same price as the FiiO E10K or under £80 ($100)

 

Thanks a lot in advance,
Sean.

u/kevinthezebra · 1 pointr/audio

I'm gonna pick up this amp. It has 1 rca and 1 3.5mm input.

u/ashleypenny · 1 pointr/headphones

Thanks, I live in England and we don't seem to have monoprice here. Well reviewed options include:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B017W13OR0/ref=pd_aw_sim_sbs_23_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HSM382Q3VFBAH3E6B88E

&

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00LP3AMC2/ref=pd_aw_sim_sbs_23_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HSM382Q3VFBAH3E6B88E

Will these do?

The amp isn't portable though - will the 250ohm versions sound alright in situations where I am not at my desktop?

u/ElbowToBibbysFace · 1 pointr/Zeos

hi /u/ZeosPantera, I'm trying to make a simple setup for my small living room. I was looking at the MB42X's and an amp, with the option of adding a sub later. My problem: my TV only has SPDIF out. I was previously going to buy this amp, but I need something else, right? Does the Griffin Twenty cover it for me? How do I make this work?

u/PriceKnight · 1 pointr/bapcsalescanada

Price History


  • SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power   ^PureLink
    ReviewMeta: ★★★★☆ 3.8/5 from 85 valid reviews
    CamelCamelCamel - [Info]Keepa - [Info]

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    Don't En Passant these deals.
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u/nnet3 · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

Another question: Are you able to get to a high volume with the SMSL SA36 before it distorts?

EDIT: 2nd Question: Did you buy this or this SMSL SA36.

u/TeamTaeyeon · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

I got these with an open box discount which totaled out to be $34.00 with free shipping which came in looking brand new with no chips or scratches. Here's a review on them. I'm only a beginner when it comes to this but so far they sound pretty solid to me however they will need a subwoofer.
If you get lucky, I got this which came with a 12V power supply instead of the described 24V power supply, contacted Amazon about the misinformation and they gave me a $25.00 gift card back.

u/juggafat · 1 pointr/buildapcsales

I have these powered by an SMSL SA38 and they get plenty loud as a desk setup.

https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0

u/whatinthenameofholyf · 1 pointr/audiophile

OK, that's a really easy load so almost anything will power them. This, for example. Or this.

u/JepheDelPhuego · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

Alright awesome! Thanks for your help with this. Only two more questions:
What do you mean by high level inputs?
And will this work for me? Is 20w enough?
https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=smsl+sa36&qid=1555675258&s=gateway&sr=8-2

u/I3igAl · 1 pointr/ZReviews

I bought the Covo S for my wife and paired it to a SMSL Mini5, mostly so she could also have a headphone out without getting a separate unit.
 
If you are getting the Covo because of budget constraints, pair it with a Lepy 2020:

https://www.amazon.com/Lepy-LP-2020A-Stereo-Amplifier-Supply/dp/B00C2P61FO

If you can swing a higher budget, or dont mind buying used, get either the MB42X or the MB42 and a crossover upgrade kit:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009IUIV4A
http://www.miccastore.com/crossover-upgrade-for-micca-mb42-bookshelf-speakers-mkiii-p-114.html
And pair either of those with an SMSL SA36:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017W13OR0

Buying the covo and lepy is like buying a used beater car from the corner lot; it will get the job done but it won't be very good at it. if you can, its better to save up and reach the next tier.

u/Skitch_n_Sketch · 1 pointr/audiophile

I'll start off with the a basic setup and expand from there. All speakers require power which is supplied to them by an Amplifier. The Amplifier (Amp) takes signal from your source (Computer, Phone, Turntable, etc) and boosts it. You'll come across two different kinds of speakers, Active and Passive. Active speakers simply have an amplifier built into the speaker like so, while passives like so require an external amplifier.

A DAC (Digital to Analog Converter) takes the 1's and 0's from your computer and convert it into something the amplifier can understand. Basically all devices have one built in, but external ones exist that may be better. For simplicity and/or budget, I'd skip this as your computer already has one built in and this generally improves the sound the least.

So let's build a simple 2.0 system with the speakers I linked above. If you chose to buy the passive version (MB42X), you'll need an external amplifier like this. To set that up you'll go:

  • PC -> Amplifier -> Speakers

    If you chose to buy the active variant, setup is a bit simpler though keep in mind you'll lose a volume knob. Often times powered speakers don't have build in volume knobs or they're in a hard to reach location. This is where a preamp comes in, which generally allows for volume control and multiple inputs. The one I linked adds a volume knob and allows you to connect two sources at once then switch between them. So you can go:

  • PC -> Speaker (With no knob, you'll have to control volume through windows0
  • PC -> Preamp -> Speaker

    Headphones add another layer to this whole thing. I'd probably just leave them plugged into the computer, but volume might get wonky.

    Lastly, subwoofers often end up being harder to integrate than you'd think. If you're on a budget, I'd honestly skip it.
u/TK503 · 1 pointr/audiophile

2 weeks ago I asked for recommendations for a passive 2.1 setup for my PC for under $300.

I would like a recommendation for a swap on the sub for something that's Amazon prime-able rather than purchased through a 3rd party website for shipping reasons, and would also like a second opinion on the speaker setup if you think there are better speakers for the same budget and available through Amazon prime

I was recommended

[Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2LG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PxrzCbRECT5Q2)

Dayton Audio Sub 1000 10" powered sub

(That sub is what I want replaced)

SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply

(for that AMP, it doesn't allow headphones to pass through it. I wanted to ask if I needed a seperate DAC amp thing the /r/headphones guys are always talking about or if I could just use an AMP for my speakers that allows the headphones to be plugged in

u/J0C30 · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

What are would be some good amp recommendations?

SMSL SA-36A(see that thrown around lot)
SMSL SA-36A Pro 20WPC TPA3118D2 Digital Amplifier AMP 12V Power Supply Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YcUzCbJ6BSNBN

Kinter K2020A+ Limited Edition Original Tripath TA2020-020 Class-T Hi-Fi Audio Mini Amplifier with 12V 5A Power Supply Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077Z7DBRT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2bUzCbBAGW3Y1

Nobsound Mini TPA3116 Audio HIFI 2.0 Channel Stereo Output Digital Power Amplifier 50WX2 DIY https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WTOAC1M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qdUzCb79JSKGY

u/FlufferNutter8675309 · 1 pointr/audiophile

Hello! I finally have all of my components and am ready to connect my audio parts to complete my setup!

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the parts I am using is:

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my computer's motherboard: MSI Gaming Pro Carbon AC ( for audio out?)

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SMSL SA36 Amp: https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-SA-36A-TPA3118D2-Amplifier-Black/dp/B017W13OR0/

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Dayton SUB1000: https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1000-10-100-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-628

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Micca Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/

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Here are the outputs on my Motherboard: https://imgur.com/a/cMMDTQG

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my question is, how do I connect the whole system? I'm guessing to connect from my PC to my Sub's input, then from the Sub's output to the amp, and then from the amp to the 2 speakers ( L and R respectively ).

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IF that is correct, how do I connect from the back of my PC to the Sub? via the the Red and White input's? or the High level input? I don't know what that cable is called but I've seen plenty on older TV sets for audio out, similar to S-Video but these would just be Red and White? tyia.

u/aaq1 · 1 pointr/audio

would this amp solve my problem? also, how do you connect the bare speaker wire into these? They don't have the clamps at the back.

https://www.amazon.ca/SMSL-Component-Amplifier-Black-SA-36A/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1486565237&sr=8-4&keywords=SMSL+SA50

u/obsessiveimagination · 1 pointr/audiophile

Yes. Don't buy the Mackies, they are neither good studio monitors nor good value. Instead, some Micca MB42Xs and a small amplifier such as the SMSL SA-36A would be far better in performance and fidelity to the input. Also some good 100% copper speaker wire is a good idea to use for a low resistance connection between the amplifier and speakers. Then all you need to hook up is a source via two RCA, which can be through a 3.5mm to RCA splitter if your preferred audio source's output is a 3.5mm jack.

u/timessquaregt · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

Unfortunately Vizio is not available in England :(

Maybe I might just get a soundbar then, thanks mate.

Also suppose I could get double the budget to £200 what would you recommend I mean I could get something like the diamond 9.1's and power them with this https://www.amazon.co.uk/SMSL-SA-36A-Audio-Stereo-Amplifier/dp/B017W13OR0

or even some polk t15's : https://www.amazon.co.uk/Polk-T15-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B002RJLHB8/ref=sr_1_75?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1518990818&sr=1-75&keywords=speakers&refinements=p_36%3A5000-7000

for something in between the two price points.

Is the lack of sub a deal breaker, with the amount I would be spending on the perhaps it is just worth getting a better soundbar?

u/Shhhh_Peaceful · 1 pointr/audiophile

https://www.amazon.co.uk/SMSL-SA-36A-Audio-Stereo-Amplifier/dp/B017W13OR0

Or, if you need more power, SMSL SA-50 which is about 10 quid more expensive.

u/reely989 · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

Thanks for all the help! So, I guess just to give a quick and dirty rundown. I'll be running USB into my E07k which has two outs for headphones. I'd have my headphones in one, and one of those RCA cables you linked out of the other into whichever amp I buy, probably https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-Component-Amplifier-Black-SA-36A/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1466891255&sr=1-5&keywords=SMSL

Which I'll have connected to two Pioneer Andrew Jones bookshelf speakers. Would that be acceptable? The DAC serving as kind of a pre amp for the speakers as well I'm guessing? I know very little about this stuff, sorry for the dumb questions. This way it just seems like it will be easier because my computer's audio source stays constant as the USB source for the FIIO

u/AsamiWithPrep · 1 pointr/buildapc

My computer doesn't output sound to the aux ports (sounds fine through DP on my monitor). I plan on setting up some speakers w/ amp, should I get a sound card (would need to be pcie, my GPU covers the pci slots) or a dac? Can somebody recommend what to buy, relatively inexpensive?

Speakers that I plan to buy

Amp that I plan to buy

But let me know if there's a better combo for the money.

u/picantejosey · 1 pointr/audiophile

Hey everyone, I am looking for a new amp for my set up. My current set up involves a set of Pioneer bookshelf speakers and an SMSL SA-36Pro amp.
I recently got a pair of AKG K7XX's from massdrop and now need a new amp to drive the speakers and headphones by allowing me to alternate the output. Can anyone suggest me an amp that'll do that? I would prefer not to spend more than a $100 but will if I have to. Thanks for the help everyone!

u/In_Limb0 · 1 pointr/audiophile

I currently have the AudioEngine D1 as a DAC to headphone Amp, however I'm looking to add speakers to my setup, the Micca MB42X's are what I had in mind. I know I need to lead the D1 DAC into a speaker Amp, then that into the MB42X's, but I'm not sure which Amp to get. Recommendations I've received have been the SMSL 36A and the SMSL A2, but these suggestions came from a seller referring to their stock. This thread suggests the SA-60, but going from a DAC to amp as well as availability of the SA-60 in Australia I'm super unsure on the choice. So should I go for one of these, or something different?

u/blujaffa · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

well i was using some logitech 5.1 (surround sound) speakers which i sold for £40 on ebay to go towards my new speajkers. Richer sounds are a great shop imo and they always give you help and advice so i would look at the speakers there .

I got the Monitor Audio MR1s and there is so much difference between my old ones, crisper highs/treble and over all clearer sound, its very hard to explain how they sound better but trust me.

Types of speakers:
There are mainly 2 types, powered and non-powered.

Powered: They have a built in amp and plug into a wall socket for power and then go straight into your PC, they are easy to set up but some people like to have a separate amp (im also new to this so im not to sure why)

Non-Powered: They are just speakers and on there own cant produce sound as they dont have any power, which is where the amp/amplifier comes in. The amp just gives the speakers power so that they are able to produce sound and connect to a PC ect.

the bigger the speakers the bigger the amp needs to be to give it enough power.

I would go to richer sounds if you have one near you and ask for a demo for some speakers around £100 if you can and im sure you will notice a difference. Also watch some videos about audio and why some speakers are better than others.
Im also very new to this, i got my first pair 2 weeks ago.

These are some good powered speakers that will probs beat cheaper multimedia ones on the cheap:

M-Audio AV32

M-Audio AV42

Mackie CR4

These are some good non powered speakers and amps on the cheap:

MORDAUNT SHORT M20 AND SMSL SA-36A

Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 AND SMSL SA-36A

BTW the amp ive chosen will power them on a desk but might not be great for a big room.

Hope this helps :)

u/Umlautica · 1 pointr/audiophile

Check out /r/budgetaudiophile but here are two ideas:

u/shadyinternets · 1 pointr/BudgetAudiophile

i am fairly positive that your tv's rca outs are not powered, they just send a signal so connecting them to a speaker with that adapter wire wouldnt do anything as your speakers wouldnt know what to do with the signal from the rca outs.

spend a little more and you can get a basic little amp that would do what you need. https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-Component-Amplifier-Black-SA-36A/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=sr_1_8?

u/Pokegamer · 1 pointr/vinyl

I dont claim to be an expert in audio, but this sony and this yamaha are popular new receivers. If you want a deal, try craigslist or FB marketplace. They aren't the worst spots to look but it takes patience.

There are also lower end amps if you dont want to spend a crap load of money, something like this would also get the job done. It wouldn't be the most amazing amp ever made but it wouldn't be the worst.

As for the preamp, it depends. Some people have no problem using a table's built in pre, others think they're garbage and even cut them out of the table. Using the built in pre saves some money but the sound quality won't be 100%. Might be more in the range of like 90% but that's not acceptable for some.

It's really what you are ok with. I personally run through my lp120's pre into an active speaker right now, but i'm getting a cheaper amp and passive speakers to free up my active speaker cause it's more portable and has other uses for me. I'm sure someone will tell you how I'm using a terrible setup, but it's what I'm ok with.