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12v Trigger

A 12v trigger, also known as a 12v DC trigger, is a feature commonly found in audio gear, such as amplifiers, preamplifiers, and receivers. It is a mechanism that allows audio gear to turn on and off automatically, without the need for manual intervention.

The 12v trigger works by sending a 12-volt DC signal to connected devices when the main audio gear is powered on. This signal is used to activate a relay inside the connected device, which in turn powers it on. When the main audio gear is powered off, the 12v trigger sends a signal to deactivate the relay and power off the connected device.

This feature is particularly useful for home theater systems, where multiple components need to be turned on and off at the same time, such as a surround sound processor, power amplifier, and a subwoofer. This ensures that all devices are in the correct state when the user turns on the main audio source.

Some devices use the 12v trigger as a way to sense the presence of the main audio gear, and will turn on or off accordingly. This feature is useful in situations where the user wants to ensure that all devices are turned off when the main audio gear is not in use, such as energy saving or security purposes.

It’s important to note that not all audio gear has a 12v trigger, and not all devices that have a 12v trigger input will work with all audio gear. Therefore, it is important to check the compatibility of the devices before making any connections.