Can I Convert My Guitar Amplifier into a Bluetooth Device?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on converting a guitar amplifier into a Bluetooth device by utilizing its Auxiliary Port. Users are advised against directly connecting the amplified output from a Bluetooth speaker to the Aux input, as this could potentially damage the amplifier. Instead, incorporating a level control circuit, such as a 20k variable resistor (potentiometer), is recommended to manage signal levels and prevent over-driving the Aux input. This method ensures compatibility and preserves the integrity of the amplifier's components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of guitar amplifier input specifications
  • Basic knowledge of audio signal types (analog vs. digital)
  • Familiarity with circuit components, specifically variable resistors
  • Experience with soldering and basic electronics assembly
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to implement a level control circuit in audio applications
  • Learn about the specifications of guitar amplifier Aux inputs
  • Explore the differences between analog and digital audio signals
  • Investigate potential protective measures in amplifier design
USEFUL FOR

Musicians, audio engineers, and hobbyists interested in modifying audio equipment for Bluetooth compatibility.

TechTree
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Hello, I have a guitar amplifier I'd like to convert into a bluetooth device. Using it's current power supply and allow it to receive a bluetooth input. I have a bluetooth speaker that I took the electrics from. The bluetooth speaker is digital, but when it outputs to the speaker it's an analogue signal. How could I connect the bluetooth speaker to the guitar amplifier? The guitar amplifier has an Auxiliary Port, could I just connect the output going to the speaker of the bluetooth deivce directly to the Auxiliary Port? Or would that not work.

Here are some photos of the guitar amplifier & bluetooth speaker:

20190303-160134.jpg

20190303-160125.jpg


Thanks :wink:
 

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You need to look at the input specs of the Aux port. Some of types of input ports are designed to take a weak signal like microphone or guitar pickup. While the output to the speaker of the Bluetooth device has already been amplified
 
scottdave said:
You need to look at the input specs of the Aux port. Some of types of input ports are designed to take a weak signal like microphone or guitar pickup. While the output to the speaker of the Bluetooth device has already been amplified
Thanks for the reply! That makes sense, I'm pretty sure the input of the Aux port is designed to take weak signals as you mentioned. Would there be some way I could connect the bluetooth speaker output to the Aux input without it passing through the amplifier? What would happen if I passed the amplified signal directly into the Aux input, would it damage something or just wouldn't work?

Many thanks!
 
This is speculation. I'm guessing that any decently designed amp should take into account that somebody migjt accidentally plug the wrong wire into that jack. So there should be some protection to keep from blowing expensive parts.
Hopefully the worst thing that would happen is you get a distorted signal.
How you proceed depends on your risk tolerance. Try to do some research on the manufacturer's website, as to what type of signal it can handle,and what happens if that is exceeded.
 
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scottdave said:
This is speculation. I'm guessing that any decently designed amp should take into account that somebody migjt accidentally plug the wrong wire into that jack.

not usually

TechTree said:
What would happen if I passed the amplified signal directly into the Aux input, would it damage something or just wouldn't work?

you would over-drive the AUX input

the easiest way is to put a level control in circuit between the BT audio out and the AUX input. That way you can set the levelso that the input isn't overloaded
here's a quick schematic I drew up

Audio Level Cntlr.gif


and an example of a 20k variable resistor (Pot)

potentiometer.jpg
Cheers
Dave
 

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davenn said:
the easiest way is to put a level control in circuit between the BT audio out and the AUX input. That way you can set the level
Thanks Dave, worked perfectly :)
 
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