This isn’t a comprehensive guide full of theory. Instead, it's a story-like walkthrough of a single, tangible project—real components, real experiences, and an end result you can hold in your hands and plug into your classic stereo receiver.
What is the SN76810P?
Before diving into the build, let’s talk briefly about the heart of our project—the SN76810P. This is an analog switch IC manufactured by Texas Instruments. Originally designed for audio and video applications, it provides a compact way to switch between multiple input sources without mechanical relays or bulky switches. With six SPST analog switches inside, it’s perfect for switching low-level audio signals.Its vintage pedigree makes it particularly attractive to those who appreciate retro components. For this project, the SN76810P will allow us to select between multiple audio input sources—like CD players, turntables with preamps, cassette decks, or even your old iPod—routing the chosen input to a single stereo output.
The Vision for the Project
The goal of this DIY project is simple: Create a 3-input to 1-output audio signal selector using vintage aesthetics and tactile controls. Imagine a small box with three buttons on the front—each corresponding to an audio source. A soft LED glow behind the selected input gives you visual feedback. Inside, the SN76810P handles the routing, quietly doing the job without clicks or static.You’ll be able to plug in three different audio devices and use this selector to choose which one feeds into your amplifier or powered speakers. And, perhaps best of all, it will look right at home next to vintage audio gear thanks to its clean lines, brushed metal panel, and smooth mechanical switches.
Gathering the Components
The build starts, like all good DIY projects, with a table scattered with parts. Here's what you’ll need (no tables here—just a straightforward list):● 1x SN76810P analog switch IC
● 3x momentary push buttons (non-latching type)
● 3x bi-color LEDs (or single color if preferred)
● 1x small enclosure (preferably aluminum or wood for a vintage look)
● 1x small 5V voltage regulator module (to power the SN76810P)
● Several 3.5mm or RCA jacks (depending on your audio devices)
● A few resistors and capacitors for filtering and protection
● Wires, soldering tools, perfboard or small PCB
● Optional: decoupling capacitors for better audio quality
And don’t forget the most important tools of all: patience, curiosity, and a steady hand.
Planning the Layout
Before soldering a single joint, I sat down with a pencil and graph paper to sketch the layout. The enclosure I chose was a secondhand metal project box with a brushed front panel—perfect for adding a vintage touch.The front panel would hold:
● Three buttons labeled A, B, and C
● Corresponding LEDs above each button
● A main power LED
● A small toggle switch on the side to power the unit on or off
The rear panel would feature:
● Three stereo RCA input jacks
● One stereo RCA output jack
● A DC input jack for power (I used a 9V adapter with internal regulation down to 5V)
Inside, I planned to mount the SN76810P on a small perfboard, along with the wiring for audio routing and LED control. I opted for point-to-point wiring instead of a custom PCB to keep the design fluid and modifiable.
Prototyping and Testing
Once the layout was set, I breadboarded a simplified version of the circuit. Using the SN76810P, I wired two stereo audio signals to two of the internal switches and connected them to a single output line. With temporary switches and an LED indicator, I tested the switching function.The SN76810P handled the audio beautifully. Switching between inputs was silent—no clicking or popping. Audio clarity remained intact, which was a big concern for me, especially since I was working with analog signals from a CD player and a DAC.
This gave me the green light to move forward with the full build.
Building the Circuit
Soldering the SN76810P onto the perfboard took care. It’s a 16-pin DIP, so not overly tiny, but precise placement and good flux were key. From there, I added the input and output connections using shielded wire to avoid any interference.The control circuit was simple but satisfying. Each momentary button connected to a basic logic latch circuit to ensure only one input could be selected at a time. When a button is pressed, it toggles the respective switch inside the SN76810P and lights the corresponding LED.
I added small filtering capacitors on each audio line to block DC and used a few resistors in the LED circuits to prevent excessive current draw. A compact 5V regulator module took care of power, and I added a simple diode for polarity protection on the input jack.
Everything was neatly arranged, with audio lines on one side and control signals on the other to minimize noise.
Assembling the Enclosure
This was perhaps the most satisfying part of the whole build. Drilling holes in the metal front panel for the buttons and LEDs required precision, but once the panel started to come together, the whole project began to feel real.I mounted the buttons, added vintage-style knobs, and secured the RCA jacks to the back panel. All internal connections were carefully routed, and I added cable ties and hot glue in key spots to prevent strain or shorts.
Before closing it up, I ran one last test—power on, press button A, music from the CD player. Button B—switch to the cassette deck. Button C—iPod. Smooth transitions, no noise, and perfect audio fidelity. I smiled. It worked exactly as intended.
The Finishing Touches
To give it a truly finished look, I used a label printer to make custom labels for the front panel. “Input A – CD,” “Input B – Cassette,” and “Input C – AUX.” I also added a subtle “DIY Audio Selector” logo on the rear panel with my initials and the date of completion.Inside the lid, I taped a small schematic for future reference, just in case I want to modify or repair it later.
Reflections on the Project
This audio signal selector, while seemingly simple, was a deeply rewarding project. It took a modest component—the SN76810P—and turned it into the beating heart of a device that brought my old audio gear back to life.There’s a joy in creating something so functional out of individual parts. Every switch press feels deliberate, every LED glow is earned, and every note that comes out of the speakers passes through something I made with my own hands.
What stood out most was how quiet and reliable the SN76810P turned out to be. No pops, no degradation of the audio signal, and full stereo handling in a tiny DIP package. It’s the kind of part that makes you want to build more.
Possibilities for Expansion
While I was satisfied with three inputs, there’s no reason the design couldn’t be expanded. The SN76810P contains six switches, so you could easily build a four- or even five-input version with a more complex control circuit. Adding remote control, balanced inputs, or even integrating with a tube preamp are all possible next steps.You could even take a hybrid approach—using a microcontroller to handle the switching logic while letting the SN76810P manage the analog routing. That way, you could add features like auto input sensing or memory recall.
But for me, this build was about simplicity and nostalgia. And on that front, it delivered perfectly.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a DIY electronics project that connects you to the physicality of audio—something that sounds good, looks retro, and is deeply satisfying to build—this vintage-style audio signal selector using the SN76810P might be the one.It doesn’t require exotic components or advanced programming knowledge. Just some patience, a bit of soldering skill, and an appreciation for analog audio. The SN76810P, though a humble chip by modern standards, brings this whole project to life with clean switching and vintage soul.
Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting your journey, this project offers a great opportunity to blend old-school design with practical function. And when you hear that first crisp chord play through your speakers from your chosen input, you’ll know: it was worth every moment.
Would you like help designing a printable front panel or visual diagram for the project?
US 14958 
GB 11900 
CA 10097 
AU 8816 
IE 5165 
BR 3288 
CN 1400 
SG 1198 
