How to Connect a PC to a Stereo Receiver

Use stereo connectors like these to hook up a receiver to a PC.

Connecting a computer to a stereo receiver makes it possible to enjoy high-quality audio files stored on the PC or downloaded from the Internet on a full-size audio system. Many people use their computers as an audio storage device for holding thousands of songs ripped from CDs or recorded online. Playing that music on a home stereo requires a standard set of stereo cables and a Y-adapter that can unite the 1/4-inch cable plugs with the smaller 3.5mm audio jack found on virtually all computers and laptops.

Things You'll Need

• Y-adapter with two 1/4-inch jacks and one 3.5mm mini-plug.
• Stereo cable long enough to connect between the PC and receiver

Instructions

1. Connect the two plugs on one end of the stereo cable to an unused pair of audio input jacks on the back of the receiver, such as the Auxiliary jacks or a set for connecting a second tape deck.

2. Insert the plugs on the other end into the two jacks on the Y-adapter.

3. Push the mini-plug on the Y-adapter into the Line IN jack on the back of the computer tower, or use the headphone jack to connect to a laptop.

4. Turn on the receiver and dial the selector control knob on the front of the component to the set of jacks that connect it to the PC.

Tips & Warnings

• Turn off the receiver while connecting the audio cable to the computer.

References

• RAM Electronics: How to Connect Your Computer to Your Stereo