Apple Pro Speakers

[Chusan]

I just purchased 40 new iMacs for use in a college computer lab. The computers came with the Apple Pro Speakers that I would like to use with PC's if possible. Does anyone know where I could get an adaptor that will convert the Apple minijack connector to a standard audio connector?

Thanks,

---Chuck

 

[wags22]

Check with Radio Shack.

 

[Chusan]

Okay, thanks.

 

[raylaz]

Chusan, I have pair of the Apple Pro Speakers that I would like to use with my Apple iBook (only has standard, not minijack). Were you able to locate an adaptor that works?

 

[Chusan]

raylaz,

To be honest, I haven't yet checked at Radio Shack and those Apple speakers are still sitting in a box in my office (which is a shame because they are really good sounding speakers).

Anyway, I'll let you know if I find something that works.

 

[raylaz]

Thanks,
I stopped by a local Radio Shack this afternoon, and unfortunately, at least this particular location did not have the correct adaptor.
...... still hunting.

 

[silicontrip]

The adapter you want is known as a 4 pole 2.5 mm (1/10&quot minijack. Unfortunately no such part exists or at least I cannot find one. The connectors are, from tip to base: left +, left -, right +, right - There IS NO COMMON GROUND. Which makes it difficult to use a 3 pole 2.5mm minijack, which is quite easily found.

Dont get an inline minijack, as the sheild around the speaker plug will get in the way. Get one that can be screw mounted. As you can take off the nut and the extra clearance allows the plug to fit all the way in.

Also note that the speakers are not powered and must be amplified by an external amplifier, I don't believe that soundcards today come with amplified out, you need to purchase a reasonable amp to go with them, something that can drive the 120 watt speakers. They appear to be rated at 8 ohm. This kinda defeats the purpose of them being portable. :-(

Apple wont give me a refund because they don't work with my dual G4 Macintosh. Despite the fact that their online store did not say so.

 

[Chusan]

Thanks for the update. I didn't even think about them not being powered speakers. Oh well, think I'll give up on this one.

Thanks again.

 

[jmcool]

Hi! I haven't been able to find a jack that can adapt this...though I'm sure there is one. I was just so fed up with finding one, i cut the wires on the Pro Speakers, just above where it comines them. I then found some old headphones, cut off the cord, and stripped the wires on all the four cables. It was really easy...I just taped them together, and PRESTO, it works! The only thing is the sound is somewhat quieter than the speakers on the iBook..kinda defeating the purpose, but they are portable speakers that work nicely. Good luck!

 

[WVUnorbeey]

I'm only just becoming a mac user, and I bought the Pro speakers specifically for my PC.
I have found an extrenal amp that connects via USB.
It might not be the cheapest solution, but its called: Griffin PowerWave USB Audio Device
You can find it at griffintechnology.com or the apple store website. Its about $100...yeah....maybe not worth it, but oh well.

 

[nrb501]

If you live in the UK a 4 pole 3.5mm jack plug is available from Maplin electonics code QT65V