The Visionary Sound Company

the SoundPlug

Frequently Asked Questions

What does SoundPlug do?

SoundPlug makes Line level audio signals audible without the need for a monitor amplifier or headphone box etc.  

How do I use SoundPlug?

Plug the SoundPlug  into the end of a signal carrying cable, hold it up to your ear and you can hear if there is any signal.

How does SoundPlug work?

SoundPlug uses a sensitive high impedance transducer connected across pins 2 and 3 of a female XLR plug.

Does SoundPlug need a battery?

No, SoundPlug is totally passive.  It should continue working indefinitely.

Does SoundPlug work with mic level as well as line level signals?

No, SoundPlug will only work with line level signals.  Mic level signals are so quiet that you cannot hear them.

Does SoundPlug work with un-balanced as well as balanced signals?

Yes, as well as balanced signals, SoundPlug will also work with correctly unbalanced signals where either pin 2 or pin 3 has been shorted to ground.  However, it will be quieter as unbalancing reduces a signal level by 6dB.

Does SoundPlug work with any other types of signals?

Yes, you can hear AES/EBU, S/PDIF, MIDI, USB, Serial, RS485.  Just make sure that your adaptor converts the data pins to pins 2 & 3 on the XLR.  Soon we will be publishing wiring adaptor diagrams to adapt to monitor most data cables.

How loud is the SoundPlug?

It depends on the level of the signal.  Balanced +4dB RMS pink noise is too loud to stick it in your ear (~70dBSPL at 1").

Will SoundPlug work with -10dBV as well as +4dBu & +8dBu?

Yes, SoundPlug will work with residential level audio although you will have to listen quite carefully as it is nearly always also unbalanced.

What is SoundPlug's frequency response like?

Not good.  But it doesn't have to be.  We are not talking 'in the ear monitoring' here, we are talking seeing if something is working or not.

What colors does SoundPlug come in?

SoundPlug can be ordered in Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Violet.

How much does SoundPlug cost?

SoundPlug costs $39.95 plus $5.00 shipping and handling.

How do I get hold of a SoundPlug?

Click here and you can order one on-line using your credit card.