This cable’s a lifesaver for recording to a laptop or connecting to a car stereo that has aux input. The only problem is that they normally retail at $20 and up. I decided to make my own cable from the most abundant and inexpensive retractable cables available, Dollar Store USB Cables. I found my source at "Dollar Tree" in Littleton, NH. They carry a cable by eCircuit Electronics.

Parts

eCircuit retractable USB Male-Male 30" cable – $1
2x 3.5mm male jack plugs – $3.99 @ RadioShack (ouch!)

Equipment

pliers
soldering iron
wire strippers
helping hands

In total, the project cost me $4.99, but it could have been $2-$3 if it weren’t for RS’ inflated prices.

By: gschoppe

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