Amplifying music from my laptop

[fek]

I have a Harbinger M120 PA in my jam space that I use to play along to tracks. It's starting to cut out after being on for about an hour and am looking for some other inexpensive ideas. I don't use any of the channels. Only use a cable to plug my laptop in.

Are there any power amps with some basic EQ that could be used in it's place? The stock speakers are suitable. Not great but workable for my needs.

 

[dirtyfunkg]

Maybe an old Yamaha powered mixer? I had an EMX 88S that worked really well, and I used it for that purpose among others.

 

[ChurchHill]

Don't know what software you're using on your laptop to play music, but many of them have simple EQs built-in. If yours doesn't, maybe a cheap (free) small-scale DAW should have basic channel EQs. Depending on which audio card/driver you're using, most of those have bass/treble EQs in them, too. Anyway, if you could get away with using an EQ in your laptop, you could look for power amps that just have power (no built-in EQ). That might make it easier to find, bigger selection to choose from, and ultimately cheaper.

Of course, you could pick up a cheap rack EQ, something like a dbx 215 or the equivalent. As far as a power amp, I've seen used Crown XLS2000s (something like 200w per side) go for cheap lately. Usually under $200. There are plenty of other options at or below that price, too.

 

[HeyNow]

I used to just plug my computer into another tube amp. Make sure you select mono output.

Lately, I just use bluetooth to my surround sound receiver and play music from my computer.

 

[UltraGary]

Buy a cheap old stereo at a garage sale or off of Craigslist. People are giving them away these days and they work great for what you're doing.

 

[ChurchHill]

Buy a cheap old stereo at a garage sale or off of Craigslist. People are giving them away these days and they work great for what you're doing.

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