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no, you can't use external speakers and internal speaker at the same time. The audio will either use internal or switch to be processed through an external DAC/AMP via usb to power the external speakers. I have never heard of a way to split the sound signal internally for both.
 
You are supposed to be able to do this using an aggregate device in the audio midi setup, however a problem with the software makes this impossible, so you may only use one sound output source.

However, if you purchase an airport express with AirTunes, it allows you to play sound on multiple speakers. You can buy it new for $100 or pick one up used for as low as $50 on amazon. Good luck!
 
In many cases it is a good thing the internal speakers disconnect when exterior speakers are connected. Your case might be one. I know you would not try to get an itty-bitty bit of Bass while listening to your music, but if some other person would, it would not only make the internals irrelevant, but may turn them into Toast!! Bose Companion 3 is a nice setup. ($249.00 at the Hugely discounted Apple Store!!)
 
Actually, you can hook up a subwoofer and use your internals at the same time but...it means using an Airport Express and hooking the sub to that instead of directly to your iMac. Then, in iTunes, select both your internals and the sub for playback using the button ar the bottom right side of iTunes. It's called Airplay and works amazingly!

Edit: just saw roow110's reply so just add my reply to his for more detail. :)
 
Well, there's this:
BassJump Subwoofer from TwelveSouth
bassjump_main_03___.jpg


It's a subwoofer that connects via USB and (through some nifty software, apparently) augments your built-in speakers. Never tried one, but those who have one seem to like them. Seems like an OK deal for $69.

Hope this helps!
 
i have a set of apple pro speakers that went to my imac g4 that just bit the dust i cut the plug off at the junction and wired them into my busted set of speakers that have a sub and they work great. the idea of that usb sub sounds like a good way of using the internals and having a sub to help keep desk space uncluttered if you have a small desk
 
Well, there's this:
BassJump Subwoofer from TwelveSouth
Image

It's a subwoofer that connects via USB and (through some nifty software, apparently) augments your built-in speakers. Never tried one, but those who have one seem to like them. Seems like an OK deal for $69.

Hope this helps!

The site says it's for MacBook? Why wouldn't it work for iMac?

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I want to add a subwoofer to my iMac but i want to continue using the computer's internal speakers.
Can i use this to add a subwoofer and continue using the internals?

http://www.buyincoins.com/details/u...1-ch-audio-sound-card-adapter-product-87.html

:apple:

Yah the biggest weakness of my new generation iMac is the bass response. I'm sure it's worse than yours since the case volume is now smaller. Did you figure out a good solution?

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i have a set of apple pro speakers that went to my imac g4 that just bit the dust i cut the plug off at the junction and wired them into my busted set of speakers that have a sub and they work great. the idea of that usb sub sounds like a good way of using the internals and having a sub to help keep desk space uncluttered if you have a small desk

It would be upsetting getting an all in one and not using all in the one so yes augmenting with a sub is crucial to me. I'd make do rather than just use external speakers.

And the sub needs to have nice design. The one for the macbook looks perfect.
 
I am very tempted to purchase the 'Bassjump' too!

Would like to hear anyone's impressions who own one first though!

I do own a 9 yr old 'Altec Lansing' set up. And the sound is tremendous. But in my confined space the huge sub is a bit of a nuisance. And they are black so don't match the silver of all the other items on my desk!
 
I am very tempted to purchase the 'Bassjump' too!

Would like to hear anyone's impressions who own one first though!

I do own a 9 yr old 'Altec Lansing' set up. And the sound is tremendous. But in my confined space the huge sub is a bit of a nuisance. And they are black so don't match the silver of all the other items on my desk!

I'm decided to get one which I will get around to ordering soon, certainly no later than sometime during the month. I'll report my impressions back here as soon as I get it.
 
Well, there's this:
BassJump Subwoofer from TwelveSouth
Image

It's a subwoofer that connects via USB and (through some nifty software, apparently) augments your built-in speakers. Never tried one, but those who have one seem to like them. Seems like an OK deal for $69.

Hope this helps!

I am into my audio gear so always have my iMac linked up to my surround reciever, but if i didn't have a big setup i would 100% go for this. Looks really clean and matches Apple stuff perfectly, and for a great price.

Good find
 
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