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Raspberry Pi Forum Headphones in Line_out and Micro in Line_in
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Headphones in Line_out and Micro in Line_in

e14 Contributor
e14 Contributor over 10 years ago

Hi,

I have some questions about the Line_in and Line_out connectors.

From what I know, the Headset-connector has a built in pre-amp for Headphones and Microphones. But when I plug my Headphones in to Line_out I can get a clear signal, too. Whats the difference then between this 2 connectors?

I am also able to record through a micro connected to line_in by using the record_from_line_in_micbias.sh script. So whats the difference in the end by using this 2 connections instead of the head-set connector?

 

I would appreciate any insight.

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  • shabaz
    shabaz over 10 years ago

    It will provide audio but it definitely won't be optimal. You'll notice it most on bass (i.e. lack of it) if you have headphones plugged into the line output. Also a slight loss of volume. Also expect the output to be slightly distorted because the line output it is not designed for such a low impedance.

     

    In a similar vein, there may be some additional noise if you use a line in for a microphone connection, since the line input level is designed for a higher amplitude input and you're having to compensate by increased amplitude setting if you use the line input for the microphone.

    Note that this information is generic - I've no idea if the Cirrus Logic card can switch between line in and mic functions internally, I've not looked in detail. You could examine the datasheet for the Cirrus part if you are really curious.

    However it is generally not a good idea to try to use the line input and output for mic and headphones for the reasons mentioned.

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  • e14 Contributor
    e14 Contributor over 10 years ago in reply to shabaz

    that's helpful, thank you !

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  • e14 Contributor
    e14 Contributor over 10 years ago in reply to shabaz

    that's helpful, thank you !

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