3mm Jack Audio switcher

[icio]

I'm wondering if you can help me with how I might go about setting up the following simple circuit:

My ultimate goal is to create a small device with inputs of 2x 3mm Jack for audio and an output of a 3mm Jack for audio so that I can plug in 2 audio inputs and choose which one is played through my speakers.

Basically all that I need is a switch to choose between the two inputs, which is simple enough except for 3mm Jacks having 2 cables each. This complicates things slightly and effectively the problem becomes: how can I use one switch act as a normal switch on 2 circuits simultaneously (and without a power-source of it's own).

I have not tried building this yet, it's all just theoretical - trying to find out how I'd go about it.
Any advice you can give, I would greatly appreciate. I've forgotten all of what little I knew about circuitry from school.

Paul

[icio]

It would appear that what I am after is a double-pole single-throw (DPST) switch.

If anybody can provide some advice further than this I would still appreciate it - such as how I might wire it up, though I am going to search for information on this now.

Thanks,
Paul

[audioguru]

You need a double-pole double throw switch (DPDT). It selects one stereo signal from two stereo signals.
I use switches with gold plated contacts for switching audio signals. The gold costs only slightly more and is much more reliable than high current silver contacts that tarnish then don't pass audio.

[icio]

Then it would appear I have been mislead.

Could you please explain what the "pole" and "throw" parts of the switch are and the differences between having double or single of each?

Thanks you.

Also, do you know of an online UK store where I might be able to guy a gold-plated DPDT switch?

[audioguru]

A double pole switch has two completely separate switches with one toggle. Perfect for stereo.

A double throw switch connects to the first terminal with it switched one way and connects to a second terminal when it is switched the other way. Perfect for selecting one of two signals.

I am in Canada. Farnell is here and is also in Britain and supply thousands of different switches. The good audio switches have gold-plated contacts. Most switch manufacturers make them.

[ben23]

i actually recommend a 3PDT, so that way you can switch the grounds and isolate the other inputs ground to avoid interference and/or ground loops.