Two computers, one set of speakers.

[David Segall]

I have a KVM switch that allows me to switch between two computers
using a single keyboard, video and mouse. I would like to extend this
function by sharing one pair of speakers between the two computers. It
is probably preferable to be able to hear the output of both computers
at once rather than switch between them but either would do. Can I
just use a Y connector to join the two outputs? If so, where can I buy
one? If not, what do I need?

 

[Mike]

I have a KVM switch that allows me to switch between two computers
using a single keyboard, video and mouse. I would like to extend this
function by sharing one pair of speakers between the two computers. It
is probably preferable to be able to hear the output of both computers
at once rather than switch between them but either would do. Can I
just use a Y connector to join the two outputs? If so, where can I buy
one? If not, what do I need?

The answer is in your request - hear both at once, why not
just have a pair of speakers for both ?

Or is that tooooo easy ?

Or if you dont have an amp as each pc is low level than use
a basic mixer from altronics or dick smith or a hifi store,


mike

 

[Rod Speed]

I have a KVM switch that allows me to switch between two computers
using a single keyboard, video and mouse. I would like to extend this
function by sharing one pair of speakers between the two computers.
It is probably preferable to be able to hear the output of both computers
at once rather than switch between them but either would do.

The cleanest approach is a proper mixer.

They're dirt cheap on ebay and not too bad at Dick Smith etc.

I actually use an older Teac Model 2. The only real
downside with it is that its physically not that small.

Can I just use a Y connector to join the two outputs?

Not a good idea, that connects both outputs.

 

[Gregory Toomey]

I have a KVM switch that allows me to switch between two computers
using a single keyboard, video and mouse. I would like to extend this
function by sharing one pair of speakers between the two computers. It
is probably preferable to be able to hear the output of both computers
at once rather than switch between them but either would do. Can I
just use a Y connector to join the two outputs? If so, where can I buy
one? If not, what do I need?

Use a preamplifier. A kit from dick smith is only a few dollars.

gtoomey

 

[Franc Zabkar]

I have a KVM switch that allows me to switch between two computers
using a single keyboard, video and mouse. I would like to extend this
function by sharing one pair of speakers between the two computers. It
is probably preferable to be able to hear the output of both computers
at once rather than switch between them but either would do. Can I
just use a Y connector to join the two outputs? If so, where can I buy
one? If not, what do I need?

My passive KVM box has three spare sets of contacts on the rotary
switch. I use these for switching the speakers in my monitor between
two PCs.


- Franc Zabkar

 

[ross franks]

Jaycar sell audio mixers.

My passive KVM box has three spare sets of contacts on the rotary
switch. I use these for switching the speakers in my monitor between
two PCs.


- Franc Zabkar