Beolab 4 Question

[CharlieWednesday]

Could anyone help me with a question I have about Beolab 4 speakers?  I want to buy a pair to usd as PC speakers, but I’m not sure if that means I need the specific ‘Beolab 4 PC’ version, or will just ‘Beolab 4’ do the trick?

I want to connect them to my PC via 3.5mm, and I’m hoping to be able to set them so they go into standby automatically when not in use.  Do all Beolab 4’s do that, or only the PC version?

Location: Liverpool
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[Guy]

I think that the only difference is that the BeoLab 4 PC do not have powerlink sockets, hence either will work with a PC.

I bought the ‘standard’ BeoLab 4 for use with my PC, and connected via 3.5mm (line-in socket) using this cable from Steve:  https://soundsheavenly.com/beolab-4-and-4pc/79-336-beolab-4-4pc-input-cable-minijack-connection.html#/4-length-3m

I tried using them with the Line In switched to ‘PC’, where they go to stand-by if there is no signal (both versions do this).  However, I found that the ‘switch on’ delay was annoying – i.e if the PC made a chime noise as an email arrived, then the speakers would only catch the last bit!  I eventually moved the switch pack to ‘Line’, and made a new double power cord with a switch on the cable; resorting to simply powering the Beolabs up when the PC was in use.

You could always use your Beoport if you want them to switch on automatically whenever the PC is booted up.

 

• This reply was modified 1 day, 16 hours ago by Guy.

Location: Warwickshire, UK
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[CharlieWednesday]

Thanks Guy, that’s really helpful.  I don’t have the Beoport anymore (I gave it to a friend when I got an Essence), but mine is really a gaming PC, so for gaming audio, they should stay on while I’m playing.

I saw a pair in great condition including stands for just over £200 on eBay, which was a bargain, and when I asked him a question about them, he doubled the price!  I’m sure I’ll find a cheaper pair though, as I don’t really want the stands.  I’ll keep my eye out for a pair on eBay, and thanks for the letting me know which cable I need.

Location: Liverpool
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[Author]

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