What type of relay to use?

[speakerguy79]

What type of relay should I use when switching line-level audio signals, and what type should I use when switching something like a headphone output signal? Thanks!

 

[Jonathan Bright]

Bob Cordell initiated a discussion on relays (for output/speaker connections) very recently (a week or so) so if you don't get much response here you might try that thread as it seems to be looking at most of the options and the relevant expert were involved at a fairly serious level.

 

[Mooly]

You want something that won't degrade over time (oxidisation of contacts), so go for a sealed relay type or possibly glass reed relays. All these OK for headphone levels as well. Have used reed types successfully in past but prefer solid state switching for small signals.
Regards Karl

 

[cliffforrest]

Sealed reed relays!

Perfect for low level signals. Do not corrode, have about 50mR contact resistance, quiet and quick and take little power to drive.

Also fine for NORMAL headphone switching, but not for low impedance stuff - they weld easily if arced.

 

[Geek]

Hi,

Look for the signal relays like the telephone company uses. They are low power and either irridium (sp?) or gold plated contacts.

Fujitsu makes some that are relatively inexpensive, small and burn peanuts for coil power. Can't think of the model # off the top of my head though.

Cheers!