"MK" wrote in message
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"Serge Auckland" wrote in message
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"Chris J Dixon" wrote in message
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My amplifier has two outputs. One is switched, and used for the
speakers in the living room. The other is taken via a separate
switch box to speakers in the dining room and kitchen.

Originally, the relative sound levels in all three rooms were
reasonably matched. However, during a kitchen refit, I had to
get rid of the conventional speakers, and fitted a pair of small
KEF in-ceiling units. These have a rather lower output level. If
I deselect the dining room pair, the kitchen is well enough
matched to the living room.

As a least cost work-around, it strikes me that I might be able
to improve the situation by inserting series resistors in the
feed to the dining room. Would this work? Living in a semi, I
don't run at particularly high sound levels.

Chris
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Chris J Dixon Nottingham UK


Have dancing shoes, will ceilidh.

If the dining room application is for background music during meals, then
it should work fine by attenuating the 'speakers relative to the others.
Unless you know how many dBs you need to attenuate, and can then
calculate the series resistance value, you'll be better off getting a
loudspeaker volume control as is used in Pubs and Restaurants for just
such an application. They're not expensive and it does allow you to make
changes easily.

This will do it.
http://cpc.farnell.com/_/bt936/louds...all/dp/AV01580

It's a transformer-based design (presumably a variable auto-transformer,
like a Variac). A bit more expensive than a couple of 5-10 watt
resistors, but the extra flexibility is worth-while.

S.

--
http://audiopages.googlepages.com

There is something odd about that part - a pair of audio transformers
rated 60W with 20Hz to 20kHz response in package 140mm x 85mm x 45mm - and
variable as well - and for £20. Don't expect it to sound very good.

Michael Kellett

Yes, but they are most likely auto transformers, and I wouldn't believe the
response....they don't quote dB limits or distortion. Remember it's for
background music, not listening, so it will be adequate for the job it was
designed for. If the OP needs high quality, he will be better off with a
pair of active 'speakers and a multi-room system, but that's neither cheap
nor simple.

S.
--
http://audiopages.googlepages.com