How Do You Play Your iPod Through Your Jambox?

A jambox is the nickname for a portable and battery operated stereo system. There are various models of these portable stereos, but the majority can be connected with an iPod through the use of an adapter cable. You can also use the adapter cable with your car stereo to listen to your iPod while you drive. If you don’t already have a jambox, many new models of portable stereos include a port for iPods.

Things You'll Need

• 3.5 mm mini stereo-to-RCA adapter cable

Instructions

1. Check your jambox to make sure you have a sound input. This input may be on the front or back of the stereo and labeled as “AUX” or “Headphones.”

2. Purchase a 3.5 mm mini stereo-to-RCA adapter cable from your local electronics retailer. This is a thin cable that has two identical plugs on each end. Some retailers may carry these cables that are marketed specifically for iPods.

3. Plug one end of the adapter cable to the headphone input of your iPod and then connect the other end to the audio input of your stereo. Make sure that your iPod and stereo are turned off when connecting the adapter cable.

4. Turn on your iPod and play a song. Turn down the volume on your iPod to low and then turn on your stereo. You may need to turn it to an “AUX” or other setting (depending on the audio input you plugged the adapter cable into) to hear the iPod.

5. Adjust the volume using your stereo. Make sure your cable is plugged in securely if you hear any static sounds.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider purchasing a cassette adapter if you don’t have any audio input on your jambox. These adapters are typically for car stereos, but they can be used with a portable stereo if the connecting cable can stick out of the cassette loader of your stereo when it is closed.

References

• Apple Support: Connecting iPod to Your Home or Car Stereo

Resources

• Pocket Calculator Show: The Birth of Boomboxes