Conference hips::uk_audioo

    re .0...
    
    Doesn't your amp have an input marked "AUX"? If so, this should handle
    a vcr's audio output with no problem. 
    
    "Phono" is a misnomer, and defines the type of socket and plug, rather
    than the signal level that it is used for - unless it is on an input 
    marked "phono", which is the record player input.
    
    Dave

    
    Your VCR probably has a SCART output. I made myself up a SCART to Phono
    lead for this purpose using bits from Tandy - alternatively, they sell
    ready-made leads, but they were much too short for my application.
    
    Trevor

    Assuming that you've got a preamp or integrated amplifier with 
    various inputs, but the only pair unused are the 'phono' or record 
    deck inputs, there are two possible alternatives.
    
    1. You need to reduce the level of the signal from the VCR 
    significantly, to avoid overloading the phono input. It then gets 
    re-amplified back to line level by the preamp, so will introduce 
    noise. It can be done by using divider resistor networks, but the 
    only advantage is cheapness, it's not a sonically ideal way to 
    proceed.
    
    2. The best way is to get an 'input expander' unit as supplied by 
    QED and other audio gizmo manufacturers. This is an 'outboard' 
    switch box, which allows 2/3/4 sources to be connected to one 
    input. Ask your local 'mass audio' shop or Tandy. It's a widely 
    available device.
    
    (From memory, I think QED also make a box specifically for 
    switching a CD and a turntable into a turntable input, but you 
    might as well go for a multi input box, and then you've still got 
    a spare set for the next toy - DAT or whatever.)
    
    Mike in Warrington

    RE: .4
    
    We're talking a VCR player source here, not an LP12!
    
    Robert.

    If you are talking about a 'Phono' input (as in record player) then it
    is not going to sound too good with the RIAA equaliser circuit already
    inside the amp as well as your video's audio signal overloading the
    input.
    
    If you are talking phonotype plugs the do as was earlier mentioned, go
    in to the amp via the 'AUX' input.
    
    cheers fjeff

Re: Most of the previous replies.

If we're not careful, we are going to get the guy bent out of shape instead 
of answering a straightforward query.

>    How would I connect a NICAM stereo video up to a stereo system with
>    only phono inputs available?  I assume the phono inputs are somehow
>    'tuned' to receive the weird levels that record decks kick out, so what
>    would I need to do make 'em compatible to the videos output?
    
As I read his question, he has several inputs on the amplifier, but the only 
ones not used at present are the ones for the record deck. It is possible to 
use these with a line level input (as in VCR), by reducing the signal way 
down to cartridge level. Sure it won't sound perfect, but half a dozen 
resistors won't break the bank either!

I've credited the guy with enough intelligence to know that he could use AUX, 
CD or TAPE inputs, and therefore assumed they are all in use. My second 
and favoured suggestion is for him to buy a seperate switchbox which will 
allow him to 'fan-in' several sources into one of his AUX type inputs.

I tossed in the suggestion about the CD/Record Deck box just in case he has 
one of the strange breed of midi/mini systems which use their own type of 
dedicated interconnects, and genuinely the only externally available inputs 
are for the record deck.

Let's lighten up and answer the questions as asked, not take cheap shots at 
each other!

Mike.

    
    
    Yeah, er...sorry for taking so long to get back here, but I've been off
    the net for a few days...
    
    
    
    Firstly, thanks for all the suggestions so far.
    
    Secondly, here's some for info to clarify the situation:-
    
    	
    The video is a NICAM job with a SCART output/input and a set of L/R
    outputs (phono sockets).  The stereo system I want to connect to is of
    the type where the wiring is all internal and the only input available
    is through the record deck input.  As has been said, the circuitry in
    the main box (amp/CD/tuner/tapes) is set up to compensate for the
    record deck input signal.
    
    So, I suppose I really want some suggestions as to what can be plugged
    in-between the video and the stereo to make the signal useable by the
    stereo.
    
    
    Chris.

See 87.*.

Nick

    
    
    Thanks, I'll get someone to try that out (I don't trust myself with
    electronics!! =;*)  ).
    
    chris.