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We use our computer to play all of our
background music and some of our sound effects. In addition to being a Halloween resource,
this setup provides great sound from the PC. One cool advantage is that you can play a
music CD and also play WAV, MP3 or MIDI sounds files at the same time.
The Mini Stereo Amplifier from
Radio Shack (Optimus SA-155) is perfect for getting quality sounding music and sound
effects from your computers sound card. It's compact in size and only costs $59.99.
We
watched the Radio Shack flier and got it on sale for $39.99, so keep an
eye out for sales.
To connect the amplifier to the
sound card in our computer we used a Y-adapter cord (Radio Shack #42-2475). The 1/8"
plug plugs into the speaker out and the two RCA plugs connect to the stereo out jacks on
the back of the amplifier.
The speakers also came from
Radio Shack (XTS-25) and are shielded for working next to a monitor or TV. 10 watts (20
max) output. And there only $19.99 each, but again watch their sale fliers.
We don't suggest that you use
speaker wire over twenty-feet between the amplifier and speakers, but you can check with a
qualified Radio Shack representative to see what the maximum safe distance they recommend.
Using this
with a lap top gives you a great portable sound system that
can be programmed for your haunt or party and will play all
night without having to be re-set, leaving you free to enjoy
the night.
It's also a
good way to set up haunted sounds or music for a charity
haunt as well. Most offices, even small ones, seem to have
at least one lap top computer now days.
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