Is it possible to hook up my stereo speakers to my computer?

Question

I rarely use my stereo anymore because all my music is now downloaded onto my computer. Is there anyway to hook my speakers up to my computer? My speakers have the red and black cords that come out the back and go in the little corresponding clips/sockets in the back of my stereo system. My computer takes speakers that just plug in normally with the little plugin that everything usually has. The kid at the computer store told me that he didn't think it was possible but there has to be something...right?

PS. I am computer illiterate so please no high-tech jargon. Just tell me yes or no, what I should be buying, and how much I should be paying. Thanks a million!!

Answer 1

Yes it is possible!  I don't know what type of stereo you have, but typically there are some sort of "inputs" on the stereo.  You might see something marked "input", "phono", "line in", "DVD/VCR", or whatever.  You need to see what type of connection that is and you can use that.  

A lot of modern stereos use RCA plugs that look like these: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RCA_connect...

You can get a cable that will have RCA's on one end (to plug into the INPUT on your stereo), and either a 1/4" or 1/8" male plug on the other end.  If you get the 1/8" you can just plug it right into your computer and you're good to go.  If you get the 1/4" you need to get an adapter that will step down from 1/4" to 1/8".  

They typically sell these things at Radio Shack.

Then, once you're plugged in you just need to go the the front of your stereo and select whatever the name of the input you plugged that into to be the mode of playback.  

Good Luck!