volume controls?

[stan505]

can you use a dimmer switch to control speaker volume in different rooms?
I am finishing my basement and want to add speakers in different rooms.
any good articles to read about wiring?
thanks
mike

 

[JohnA]

No, they are not designed to be used in a low voltage application

 

[saurabh]

true, but you may find ones specifically designed to handle audio signals, just like the volume controller on the audio equipment.

 

[BMXTRIX]

Yes... and those are called volume controls, not dimmer switches.

There is additional circuitry inside volume controls that is designed to do the job necessary for adjusting audio levels to your speakers.

Or, at least, I believe there is... You know... I've never actually tried it or looked at specific wiring diagrams or electronics inside a dimmer vs. a volume control. I'm not sure how many actually have.

Good question.

 

[WmAx]

Or, at least, I believe there is... You know... I've never actually tried it or looked at specific wiring diagrams or electronics inside a dimmer vs. a volume control. I'm not sure how many actually have.

Good question.

A typical household light dimmer use a semi-conductor called a triac. This device, when coupled with a variable resistor(potentiometer) is used to control the triac, rapidly switching the voltage amplitude on/off, rapidly interupting the circuit, in order to reduce the brightness of the bulb.

A speaker volume control can be two types: [1] a variable L-Pad circuit. It uses a series resistor(variable) placed between V+ source and V+ to speaker. Additionally, a shunt resistor(variable) is placed between V+ to V-. The combination of series and shunt resistance enables a constant impedance to be seen by the amplifier. [2] Variable transformer is used to vary output voltage. This is accomplished by tapping into the output coil at different positions.

-Chris

 

[Rip Van Woofer]

In-wall volume controls (a.k.a. pads or L-pads) are commonly available at places like Radio Shack, and at PartsExpress.