Introduction: Cheap IPod Speakers

About: Music, chemistry, electronics, etc.

Do you want to have iPod speakers, to play your music like it's coming from a stereo, but don't want to go broke trying to buy an iSphere or whatever? These speakers cost less than $20 and are easy to make.

Step 1: The Materials

Materials

You're going to need

1. An audio cord ($2)
2. A 1/2" (or 1/4") to 3/4" jack adapter (<$1)
3. Some sort of cheap amp ($15 from wal-mart)

Total= A little less than $18

I've heard the Audio Cord called different things so just describe it to the guy at radio shack and he can help you find it
The adapter size depends on the jack on the audio cord. If you have a 1/2" jack on the audio cord, you'll want a 1/2" jack adapter. I've got a 1/4" jack on the cord and my 1/2" jack still worked after a little wiggling and some tape.

Step 2: The Assembly

The best part about this project is that really anybody can do it. There is absolutly no electronics, mechanics, or any other kind of skill needed to make these. So...

1st - Find the jack on your audio cord that fits into the headphone slot on your MP3 player. Stick it in there.

Step 3: Hook It Up!

Now, take the other end of the audio cord and hook it up to the jack (If it isn't an exact fit or if you have had trouble with anything, go to Step 5 for troubleshooting). Once you havethem together like in the picture, hook the entire thing up to the amp on the slot that says "input."

Step 4: Crank It Out Loud!

Once everything is hooked in, turn on the amplifier and play the song you want. Rock Out! Use the volume knob to adjust...*GASP*...the volume! Have fun knowing you didn't spend loads of cash on the store brand! Congratulations! Look at Step 5 if you had any problems.

Step 5: Troubleshooting

Here are a few problems you might have.

Q: The sound is all distorted! What do I do?
A: You probably have the gain, or distortion, on. Turn any knobs titled, "Gain" or "Overdrive" or "Distortion" to off. If you have a Clean/Solo option select "Clean".

Q: No sound!!!!!
A: Have you tried turning up the volume? If so, then maybe the jack isn't a perfect fit. Try wiggling the jack in the adapter until you get sound. The spot on mine was the top so I worked it up to there, then taped it still.

ANYTHING ELSE? PM me and I'll try to give you an answer! Have fun!