Patch-Cables: Mono or Stereo?

RassyBaby · Post by **RassyBaby** » Thu Oct 18, 2007 3:35 am

Hi guys,

I got a really stupid question for you:

I am currently soldering my patchbay and I am wondering if the patch-cables have to be mono or stereo? As there are 3 phases involved my guess is stereo... it that correct?

Rassy

EK Sound · Post by **EK Sound** » Sat Oct 20, 2007 12:55 pm

Can you be a bit more specific about the patchbay connections? If you use balanced patch "cables" then they will work in both balanced and unbalanced bays.

Dave.

Post by **Aaronw** » Fri Nov 02, 2007 9:37 am

balanced is your best bet

Post by **xSpace** » Fri Nov 02, 2007 2:03 pm

For mine, balanced was the way to go as mentioned. Having mixed type output/input gear I just made a decision that I didn't need balanced on all channels or from all devices but when I did I would have them.

Better to build for the future need rather then be needing it in the future.

RassyBaby · Post by **RassyBaby** » Fri Nov 02, 2007 7:27 pm

Hi guys,

I basically plan to have the mic inputs from the live-room available on my patchbay in order to be able to connect them indivually with my preamps. The preamp outputs then need to be connected to my d8b and 002 inputs.... I mainly mix in the box and dont have a lot of outboard fx to take care of.

I guess that I will go the general balanced approach. All connections on my patchbay have 3 connectors labeled 1 2 3.

Do you guys no a good overview page to check out how to solder the connections?

Rassy

Post by **xSpace** » Sat Nov 03, 2007 10:59 am

Here's something that may help you:
http://www.caneaudiosystems.com/TL_thelessons.html

Some warnings about patching mics and pres via a patchbay:
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/dec99/a ... tchbay.htm

I'd read the second one first to see if it applies to your unique situation.

Post by **kendale** » Sat Nov 03, 2007 1:11 pm

Aloha,

Try here - http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=2086

Hope this helps,

Aloha

EK Sound · Post by **EK Sound** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 3:08 am

For microphone signals you have *no choice* but to go balanced. I would strongly advise against using TRS for mic patch... my personal opinion, but the connection is just too flaky for such low level signals that also have to pass 48V DC. Use XLR patching for mics to pre's and never look back.

Dave.

[quote="RassyBaby"]Hi guys,

I basically plan to have the mic inputs from the live-room available on my patchbay in order to be able to connect them indivually with my preamps.

RassyBaby · Post by **RassyBaby** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 4:13 am

Hmmm.... Sorry, but what is TRS? Normal Patchbays?

With XLR Patching you mean: Using standard XLR Wall-Mount-Connectors Male/Female and Patchcables using XLR-Connectors?

Cheers
Rassy

EK Sound · Post by **EK Sound** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 4:29 am

Hi,

TRS or Tip Ring Sleeve refers to 1/4" or Bantam (TT) connections. You can obtain pre-punched panels that can house 12 XLR connectors, and solder directly to those:

http://www.raxxess.com/product.asp?ID=347

Then all you have to do is use standard short mic cables to securely connect your pres and mics together.

Here is a shot of the patch rack in our room...

Dave