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Using cables to filter frequencies.

post #1 of 9
4/26/11 at 11:19am
Thread Starter 
I did quite a few searches here and on the internet and couldn't really find anything on this so: Here's my situation. I have a new hp rig that I really like but I'd just like a little treble roll-off. I was thinking that a simple low pass filter built into the interconnect cables would be a simple and cheap solution. I just want about a 3db/octave roll-off above 10k. After a little reading a simple resistor and capacitor filter would do it. Maybe the components would even fit inside the barrel of the RCA connectors between my source and preamp. Is this a bad idea? If so why? Yes, I know that many will say that if you don't like the sound, get different cans. And I'd usually agree. However I'm working with a Stax rig which makes that not so much an option.
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post #2 of 9
4/26/11 at 12:17pm

High pass filter of a resistor and a cap looks like a good idea.

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post #3 of 9
4/26/11 at 1:32pm

What you are describing is patented & in use by MTI cables.

 

I dont recall if MTI cable owns the patent on an equalizer network IN the cables, or just licenses its use but with a few searches you should find it.

 

If audiophiles weren't so anti-EQ they could save themselves many many dollars and do the same thing (better) with a purpose built EQ. Remember when pretty much ALL preamps had "treble" controls? Maybe there was something to say for treble controls after all.

 

STAX can be beat. Easily. 

 

On that note:

If you are interested in building this FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL USE (IM not a lawyer, but I think you can build patented rubbish for yourself without liability {check if you really care}) it is not very hard, and at worst the network could be built into a small project box. BE SURE to include the load impedance in your calculations. The input impedance of the amp you are driving WILL load this circuit, and it wont work the same on an amp with a 10K or 100K input impedances.


Edited by nikongod - 4/26/11 at 1:33pm
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post #4 of 9
4/26/11 at 2:38pm

http://www.linkwitzlab.com/reference_earphones.htm

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post #5 of 9
4/26/11 at 4:45pm

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by jcx View Post

http://www.linkwitzlab.com/reference_earphones.htm


Easily one of my favorite headphone articles :)

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post #6 of 9
4/26/11 at 11:07pm
I am a lawyer and recommend building your own filter. smily_headphones1.gif

Pretty easy and you'll get exactly what you're looking for.

(+1 on Linkwitz!)
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post #7 of 9
4/28/11 at 1:20pm
Thread Starter 

Thanks for all the feedback guys.Well I have all the tools I need to build my own filter and I'm certainly a fan of doing things legally so......

...using the formula

 

fil12.gif

 

I can use a 3.4kohm resistor and a 4.7nF capacitor to create a simple first order low-pass filter that cuts off at about 10khz (9959hz).

However when I went to see about ordering these components I was a little disheartened to see that these values aren't all I need to consider.

 

So for line level voltages can someone give me advise on what specific component values (specifically power rating) and types I should look at?

 

TIA.

 

 

 

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post #8 of 9
4/28/11 at 1:46pm

In a line level application (with ~2v signal & Very high {more than 1Kohm} impedance resistors) the power and voltages at hand are basically negligible. Dont worry about it.

 

I would suggest getting a few values of resistors around what you expect to need so you can adjust it a bit by ear before you solder it all up.


Edited by nikongod - 4/28/11 at 1:50pm
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post #9 of 9
4/28/11 at 1:48pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by nikongod View Post

In a line level application (with ~2v signal) the power and voltages at hand are basically negligible. Dont worry about it.

 

I would suggest getting a few values of resistors around what you expect to need so you can adjust it a bit by ear before you solder it all up.



Sounds good. Will do thanks.

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