Upgrading Legacy Audio Systems: Adding HDMI and Bluetooth Capabilities to Nakamichi SoundSpace 10

For enthusiasts who own high-end legacy systems like the Nakamichi SoundSpace 10, it’s entirely possible to add modern features such as HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements can vastly improve the user experience by offering more versatile audio and video handling capabilities. Let’s explore the different methods to achieve this transformation.

Add HDMI Capability to Nakamichi SoundSpace 10

One of the most common requests is to integrate HDMI connections, which are essential for modern multimedia entertainment setups. Here are some methods to achieve this:

HDMI Audio Extractor

An HDMI audio extractor that has RCA output is a versatile solution. This device allows you to connect HDMI sources such as a Blu-ray player or a streaming device to the extractor. From there, the audio is output through RCA connections, which can then be plugged into the Nakamichi SoundSpace 10.

AV Receiver with HDMI Inputs

For a more comprehensive upgrade, consider integrating an AV receiver with HDMI inputs and RCA outputs. This way, you can connect your HDMI sources to the receiver, which will handle audio processing and output it through the RCA connections to your Nakamichi system.

Add Bluetooth Capability to Nakamichi SoundSpace 10

Bluetooth connectivity is a huge convenience for streaming music or listening to calls without wires. Here’s how to achieve this:

Bluetooth Receiver with RCA Outputs

A Bluetooth audio receiver that has RCA outputs is a straightforward solution. This device pairs with Bluetooth-enabled devices like smartphones or tablets, transmitting audio to the Nakamichi system through the RCA inputs.

Bluetooth Transmitter for Nakamichi Speakers

If you want to send audio from the Nakamichi to Bluetooth headphones or speakers, you can use a Bluetooth transmitter connected to the RCA output of the system. This setup allows for wireless headphones or speakers that can be placed anywhere in the room.

Implementation Considerations

While adding HDMI and Bluetooth capabilities to a legacy system like the Nakamichi SoundSpace 10 can be beneficial, it also requires careful consideration of various factors:

Power Supply

Ensure that the additional equipment used has its own power supply or can be powered via USB if applicable. This helps in avoiding any compatibility issues and ensures a stable power source.

Quality of Sound

The quality of audio can vary depending on the devices used. It’s important to invest in high-quality extractors and receivers to maintain sound fidelity and ensure that the upgrade does not degrade the classic audio quality of the Nakamichi system.

Compatibility

Always check the compatibility of the devices with your existing system. Ensuring seamless integration is crucial to achieve the best results and avoid any potential technical issues.

By using these methods, you can effectively modernize your Nakamichi SoundSpace 10 to support HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity. This enhances its functionality while preserving the classic audio quality.

However, it’s worth noting that some users may find the process expensive and complicated. Converting HDMI to RCA and integrating Bluetooth can result in a tangled setup with numerous wires and power supplies, which may even introduce unwanted noise or hum. As an alternative, some might question whether it’s worth spending a significant amount on these devices when a modern home cinema system could provide a more streamlined and lower-maintenance setup. The Nakamichi speakers could still be reused in such a system.