2. analog
  3. 127031-2195

Can I convert stereo to mono for a phono input

My preamp doesn't have a switch to convert stereo to mono.  I would like to switch a stereo signal to mono to set my cartridge azimuth (when using two channels out of phase, this method allows accurate balancing of the channels).  Is there a way to build a simple converter: two RCA female plugs taking a stereo signal and mixing it to mono, output as two RCA male plugs (mono signal)?


I have a test LP that provides a stereo track (test signal) with the two sides out of phase.  All I would need to do is feed that through the mono converter to set my azimuth. 

Thanks for any advice.  Peter

peter_s
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,724 posts
 
A combination of these y adapters will accomplish what you want to do.
http://www.audioadvisor.com/ssearch.asp?txtsearch=y+adapter
fleib
1,124 posts
 
Azimuth adjustment on a test record like Analogue Productions, provides a test tone for each channel individually. No need to build or buy anything other than the right record.
erik_squires
16,236 posts
 
Ops! You are right. You need the maximum AC voltage!! :) Same connection. My bad.

Best,

Erik


erik_squires
16,236 posts
 
It remains a little odd to me that Phonograph cartridges which are inherently balanced devices, don't have XLR outputs.
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,868 posts
 
It’s not the cartridge that needs XLR outputs, it’s the arm cable that does. Some arm makers, and arm cable makers as well, DO offer XLR termination, and some phono amp makers XLR inputs. An arm cable that is terminated in RCA plugs can have them replaced with XLR’s.
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