I guess sometimes, if you ask, you really do receive. In my last post, I mentioned how I’d like to add a headphone distribution amp to my home “studio.” After poking around on eBay (with some help from Fat Fingers), I found a listing for a DOD six-channel distribution amp, and the starting bid was only $9.99. I was excited to find the item, as it was listed at a good price. I was also pleasantly surprised to learn that the seller is actually a local music shop. I followed up on the auction and (obviously) won. I stopped by the store this afternoon and picked up the headphone amp:

The amp has some wear, but that’s OK. I also picked up a patch cable (the YS-01 model) and a new set of headphones (that will most likely be used as a spare for in-studio podcast guests):

Haven’t figured out yet where I’m going to put the amp. Will probably have to move some things around. Next I’d like to upgrade Jen’s microphone and then figure out how we’re going to handle phone calls. But at least the headphone amp situation is figured out.

(Photos also available through Flickr.)

UPDATE: I have now connected the headphone amp and it works just fine. I may need to rearrange some things on the desk, though. They’re looking kinda cramped in the current configuration.

A couple days ago, I posted about how I’ll need a new computer for work purproses. The minimum requirements I’ve set for the machine are as follows:

• Pentium 4 2.6 ghz processor
• 1 GB RAM
• 32-bit soundcard
• 20 GB hard drive
• WInXp

I’d also like to find something with a DVD burner, but it’s not a requirement. (None of my current computers are equipped with a DVD burner, and it’d be nice to have one.)

After technical specifications, price is my biggest concern. I’ve checked with a bunch of different vendors, looked through local classifieds and scoured eBay. I’ve found some good systems (like this one). I guess I’ve been a little gun shy on making a purchase, as it seems like if I just wait for one more day, there’ll be something better/cheaper.

I almost miss the simplicity of the “old days,” when everything had to be bought off-the-shelf at a local store. Almost. But, not really.