61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch, 1 in 2 Out or 1 in 4 Out Way Pair Stereo Speaker Selector W/Screw Type Connections Metal Non-Slip Box - Black (1 x 2 Way)

Great simple switch

I need an inexpensive way to run 4 speaker with a 2 speaker system. This was perfect and easy to hookup. Price price price, it was also next day delivery and I needed it know.

I actually used this in reverse - two amps, one pair of speakers - and it worked just fine. I had to crack it open and draw out the schematic before I did so tho to make sure there wouldn't be any issues. Presumably it would work just fine in its normal configuration. NOTE: there are 1.8 ohm, 5W resistors in series with the amp outputs. This will reduce the volume of the speakers and will somewhat limit the max volume as the series R's will soak up some of the power and their wattage is low. OTOH, I played a movie thru my 5.1 system with the switch attached to the fronts at a 'normal' level and the R's didn't even get warm so I think that only 'turn it up to 11' listening sessions will cause problems.

This switch works OK at higher volumes, but it's terrible at low volumes. I used it to split a couple sets of Klipsch speakers (very efficient) on a very high power receiver. When the volume was turned down to a low background music level, one channel or another would just drop out. It's definitely sucking some power. I didn't open it, but another review here reports, "there are 1.8 ohm, 5W resistors in series with the amp outputs." In my stereo parts collection I found an old Radio Shack speaker switch from the early 90's that doesn't have any circuitry other than a rotary switch and that works perfectly at any volume. Nothing in the product listing here or anywhere else (other than reviews) mentions the extra added resistance. If I had known that, I would not have purchased this useless box.

If you have an amp or receiver that does not have an A - B - A+B speaker switch and you want to not only have your speakers in the house, but also outside on the patio - This is your best option. Easy to install (doesn't even come with directions) and easy to use. Best of all it does not distort the sound on either your "A" speakers or your "B" speakers. The metal case and the heavy duty switches are the best.