Need insight: Converting Balanced Differential Outputs to RCA Inputs

[llebcire]

I've searched through the site and get an error and have researched enough on Google just enough to be confused.

What I need is to convert the balanced differential outputs from my factory HU to a standard unbalanced RCA for my amp. Currently, I'm running high-level inputs to my amp and while it sounds great I'd like to use line level.

While I could purchase something like an Audio Control LC7i or Rockford BLD-2, I would like to attempt a DIY to save money and I don't have any noise that I need to remove in my current setup.

Ideally, I am hoping that someone has done this previously and can provide guidance.

From my research, I see 2 options:

1. Build a simple circuit using an op amp to convert. Should be simple, based on a 12v power supply, and have a flat noise free frequency response. I find many references to this and some high level circuit overviews, but I'm not finding the part numbers listed so I can build it.

2. Build a converter using a 1:1 transformer - this seems too simple to work so I'm hesitant.

Thanks in advance!

-Eric

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[hispls 5,000+ posts]

I think people who really care will buy DSP/converter or replace the factory head unit. If anybody has done what you're talking about it hasn't been done by anyone on this board.

DIYaudio.com may be a better place to find more technical types.

 

[trumpet 5,000+ posts]

You have nothing to gain by that conversion.

 

[llebcire]

Appreciate your response!

I posted there as well - would prefer to keep the factory HU for cosmetics and integration and wanted to try a DIY for this.

-Eric

 

[llebcire]

Thanks!

Running into integrated high-level inputs on a new Zapco and the sound quality is quite impressive so your advice makes perfect sense.

-Eric