Can I Convert My Guitar Amplifier into a Bluetooth Device?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and methods of converting a guitar amplifier into a Bluetooth device, specifically focusing on connecting a Bluetooth speaker's output to the amplifier's Auxiliary Port. The conversation includes technical considerations regarding signal types and potential risks involved in the connection process.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about connecting the output of a Bluetooth speaker to the guitar amplifier's Auxiliary Port, questioning if a direct connection would work.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need to check the input specifications of the Aux port, noting that it may be designed for weak signals, unlike the amplified output from the Bluetooth device.
  • A participant speculates that a well-designed amplifier should have some protection against incorrect connections, suggesting that the worst outcome might be a distorted signal.
  • There is a suggestion to use a level control circuit between the Bluetooth audio output and the Aux input to prevent overdriving the input.
  • A participant shares a schematic for a level control solution, indicating it as a practical approach to manage signal levels.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the risks of connecting an amplified signal to the Aux input, with some suggesting it could lead to distortion while others caution about potential damage. There is no consensus on the exact outcomes of such a connection.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of understanding the specifications of the Aux input and the characteristics of the signals involved, highlighting potential limitations in the design of the amplifier.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in audio electronics, DIY projects involving amplifiers, or those looking to integrate Bluetooth technology into existing audio equipment.

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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