Preamp reqd when using my ipod for teaching....

[Jonnyspin]

The only way I can use my ipod in the gym is to connect it to the tape-deck they have, put a tape in, and press rec and pause. If I connect it direct to their amp, the volume is too low. And they have no tuner, so I can't itrip.

Any ideas please?

[andy jr]

Hi Johnny!

I'm not sure about the Ipod. I have a zen and I think they work the same way when you connect to the amp.
You don't have a line out on you Ipod so you are using the connection for the headphone.
Connect the Ipod to the amp. Set the normal volume level on your stereo and change the volume on you Ipod until you think it's OK.
I just tried this with my zen and on my own amp and it works fine.
anders

[Jonnyspin]

Anders, the level seems too low, even with the volume right up. I've even tied the 'line-out' connector on it's docking station, and that's too low too. I don't really understand why. Shouldn't the line out be the same as from the other components in the gym (ie the cd changer and the tape deck?)

If not, then it needs a boost, maybe some sort of cheap pre-amp?

[andy jr]

Strange. What line, in to the amp, are you using for the connection. Maybe you should try one that you know is in function. Maybe the in line from the tape.
You are right the out put should be the same for all types of components. Have you tried the Ipod at home?

/anders

[Jonnyspin]

I'll try some of those ideas out. I'll have to retrieve my leads from the gym to check it at home though :?

[zoepup]

The only way I can use my ipod in the gym is to connect it to the tape-deck they have, put a tape in, and press rec and pause. If I connect it direct to their amp, the volume is too low. And they have no tuner, so I can't itrip.

Any ideas please?

I know there are a few people on here using these and I have met seen an iPod in use at one of my gyms. I use a Dell DJ. My first guess is, yes you must turn the volume up on the iPod headset jack quite high. Be careful though. If you turn it too high you will introduce distortion or a muddy sound and it will not sounds right. On a 1-25 scale I use my DJ at volume level 21 when connected to the stereo.
As far as the iPod goes maybe you have a bad headset jack on it. Does it get plenty loud with just headphones connected? I have to turn up the volume on the amp at the gym pretty high to get the DJ volume to be loud enough for my liking.

Good Luck,

Z