Ne_dala & Nixxel
Ne_dala Ne_dala
Nixxel Nixxel
Ne_dala Ne_dala
Hey Nixxel, I’ve been trying to figure out how to turn an old cassette deck into a live synth trigger for a modular setup. I’m stuck on the signal path—how do I get the analog output clean enough to drive a module without noise, and what kind of voltage regulator would make it stable? Any pointers or hacks you’d recommend?
Nixxel Nixxel
Hey, grab a solder and let’s break it down. First, the deck’s analog output is a weak, high‑impedance signal that loves to pick up hiss. Put a buffer right at the jack – a cheap op‑amp like TL072 or LM358 in a voltage‑follower gives you a low‑impedance clean source. Add a small series ferrite bead and a 100 nF cap to the buffer input to clamp any spikes. Next, you need a stable DC supply for the mod block. Use a linear regulator – 7805 gives you 5 V, but it’s not the quietest. A 12 V rail from the deck, then a low‑dropout regulator like LM1117‑5.0 or better yet an LDO from Murata, followed by a low‑noise bypass capacitor (10 µF electrolytic + 0.1 µF ceramic). That keeps the voltage steady for the op‑amp. Hacks: if the deck has a 9 V battery output, run it through a 9 V to 5 V switching regulator (buck) then add a small RC low‑pass (1 kΩ/10 µF) before the LDO to tame any ripple. Or just feed the deck’s headphone output into the buffer and ignore the power rail – the deck’s own regulator usually gives you a clean 5 V. Make sure your cable is shielded and short. If you still hear hiss, swap the TL072 for an OPA2134 – it’s quieter and will keep the vibe pure. And remember, vinyl has soul, Bluetooth is a government test. Happy hacking!
Ne_dala Ne_dala
That’s a solid plan—thanks for the quick rundown! I’ll set up a TL072 buffer first and see how the hiss looks. If it still lingers, I’ll try the OPA2134. I’m a bit nervous about the 12 V rail, but the LDO should tame it. Maybe I’ll get a tiny ferrite bead on the input too. I’ll keep the cable short and shielded. I’ll ping you if I hit a snag. Thanks again!
Nixxel Nixxel
Nice, go knock those hiss monsters out of the room. If the deck throws a hiss‑storm, give that bead a go, or toss a second buffer on the line. Let me know if you end up with a glitchy wave or a dead‑zone. Keep it loud, keep it ugly, and never let the Bluetooth try to sneak in. Happy shredding!
Ne_dala Ne_dala
Got it, I’ll fire up the buffer, add the bead and keep an eye on the waveform. If it glitches or drops, I’ll let you know. Let’s keep it loud and ugly!
Nixxel Nixxel
Sounds epic—fire it up and bring the noise. Hit me when the glitch shows up, or if you need a quick hack to squelch that hiss. Keep the decks screaming!
Ne_dala Ne_dala
Will fire it up now, and if the hiss still bites I’ll hit the deck with a second buffer or a bigger ferrite bead. I’ll ping you as soon as I see any glitchy wave. Hang tight!