Need help getting started w/software RTA analyzers

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Jay_S
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Need help getting started w/software RTA analyzers

Post by Jay_S » Mon Aug 20, 2012 10:00 am

What I am trying to do: measure/test electrical specs of an old home audio preamp (Acurus RL-11) that I have not used in over 10 years.

What I have: Win7 PC with onboard Realtek ALC883 audio. Mini-jack to RCA patch cords.

What I need: advice on selection and use of analysis software! For example: TrueRTA. I have an old copy of Soundforge somewhere (before Sony bought them). I believe newer versions have some FFT tools - not sure if my old version does.

I have zero experience with this. But I envision:
  • software generated 1kHz sine wave out from PC into preamp, adjust preamp volume to achieve some reference voltage on its pre outs.
    Questions: what voltage (1V? 1.44V? My DMM doesn't do RMS)? How to measure (DMM probes from tip to ring)?
  • Then patch output back into sound card w/second set of mini-jack to RCA cord.
  • Then ... ?? ... click "go awesome test!" in whatever software you all recommend?
Does this sound about right?

The preamp still works and sounds fine. This experiment is more for personal knowledge and fun.

Jay_S
*Lifetime Patron*
Posts: 715
Joined: Fri Feb 10, 2006 2:50 pm
Location: Milwaukee, WI

Re: Need help getting started w/software RTA analyzers

Post by Jay_S » Mon Aug 20, 2012 1:34 pm

Well well, maybe this is the simple solution...

RightMark Audio Analyzer

http://audio.rightmark.org/index_new.shtml

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