I wish to know how do you hook up a microphone (for singing) to a receiver.

Current set up is dvd player is connected to receiver through optical, video outputs to tv. We get surround sound from the dvd player ok, but when we try to use the microphone input on the dvd player, the sound is very muted coming out of the speakers.

Therefore, I would like to know how to connect the microphone straight to the receiver, and if there's a way to have the dvd player output sound at the same time you input sound (by singing).

Do you use the phono jack? It has L/R, do you need an adaptor? Preamp connected to the phono jack?

You really need to look at the specs on your equipment. The output voltage of microphones can vary depending on the type of microphone you are trying to use. By the same token you need to look at the specs of your DVD player's mic input to see what input level it needs. Very likely the DVD player manual will tell you what kind of mic you need. If the level of your mic is too low, you may need to purchase and inexpensive mic preamp. Without knowing brands and models of your gear, it is difficult to give a more precise answer.

..Doyle

How are you connecting the mic to the receiver? A RCA plug or adapter would suggest an inexpensive mic designed for a computer. Usually these are not suitable for singing or for connecting to a receiver.

Most receivers, perhaps all, do not have inputs suitable for the low voltages and impedances of most microphones. There are several types of mics each requiring a different kind of preamplification. Some mics need a battery or power supply.

If you can find it the maker's web site should have specifications for the microphone or at least indicate the type of mic that it is. That should tell you whether you need a matching transformer or outboard pre-amp or a different microphone.

Unless it's a karoke receiver, you are probably going to need some type of mixer to blend the mic with the music.

Microphone plugged into DVD player?

List the make and model of equipment for more complete answers....

For starter, I have this low budget mixer:

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/Behringer-Xenyx-802?full_sku=103845053

It has a phantom power supply (switchable) if you need that for a high impedance mic. If you need info on quality mixers and mics, a music store like the above should be able to help you.

By the way, you will definitely need a feedback eliminator, to protect your tweeters. So you have been warned. Also, it is a good idea to use pro speakers with tweeter protection. Not all pro speakers have tweeter protection circuit built in the speaker boxes. So you have been warned about tweeter protection.

Thanks for all your answers.

Do you have suggestions on what equipment to purchase?

I don't need to use my existing mic or dvd player.

How would YOU set up your system, given that I plan on using a "normal receiver"?

The dvd player doesnt accept rca. It's the "fatter plug" type

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/93/Jack_plug.png/400px-Jack_plug.png

Stereo jack?

Thanks for all your answers.

Do you have suggestions on what equipment to purchase?

I don't need to use my existing mic or dvd player.

How would YOU set up your system, given that I plan on using a "normal receiver"?



You might want to consider one of these in this link. (http://www.vocopro.com/frm_product.html) Perhaps the DA-900 because it seems to be the least expensive and specifically mentions RCA line / pre-outs.

I'd think you could implement something like that into a tape monitor loop or other inputs of your receiver. You do need to be careful about the feedback though.

I'm not vouching for quality or anything like that because I don't know the product. I merely searched for "karaoke mixer" and that was one of the first things that came up.

It would be nice if they had manuals on their website, but I didn't see any links for that. Perhaps they'd send you a PDF if it looks interesting to you.

Take a look at the DA-1050 pro. This one has a feedback eliminator, for a little more money.

I know it's really late, but thanks for all your responses.

I guess what I'm looking for is a "microphone pre-amp". I'll definately check out some of your guys' suggestions.