CD or MP3 Hookup

[pntslsm]

What is the easiest, cheapest and safest way to run a CD player or MP 3 through a bass amp head that does not have RCA inputs or CD/MP3 inputs?
I know some bass pedals have a connection for these but I really don't want all of these effects.
Will a DI box work? CD into box, box into effects return?

[mario222]

I'd go for the effects return option. This usually bypasses the pre amp section of your amp and will connect the player directly to the power amp section thus avoiding potential pre amp distortion.

[dmusic148]

You can do it directly, into the input normally used by your bass. You just need adapters to take the mini jack to 1/4, and also stereo to mono. All available at Rat Shack. I've done, no biggie.
HOWEVER be aware that the signal is way hotter than the bass, so use the padded input if you have one, turn the gain on the amp way down(like, to 1), and also the MP3 volume. Yes, the bypass method is better(edit).

[bongomania]

Note however that both of those methods mean you can't also play your bass through the amp at the same time. To do that you need a small mixer.

[rratajski]

You can do it w/ the Boss RC-2.

[ga_edwards]

Even some devices with an aux in for CD/mp3 players, like the Pandora and other, aren't perfect, as you're normally outputting mono and the said Pandora doesn't mix down properly and just outputs the left side of the mix.

Also, if you use judicious eq on the amp to tailor your bass sound, the cd/mp3 may sound awful.

If this is just for practice, you're much better off using a hifi for this use. If you're planning on gigging, you really ouught to look into a small portable PA instead as it will sound terrible. I know, I've tried it!