Patchbay configuration recommendations

  • Thread starter Thread starter fraserhutch
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fraserhutch

fraserhutch

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Hi all.

I really don't like configuring patchbays - I always feel I could make better decisions and lay it out better, so I figured I'd ask you guys for your recommendations.

Here is the gear:

Inputs
-------------------------------
Dav BG1 channel 1 and 2
A-Designs MP2 channel 1 and 2
Tascam DM 24 sends 1,2,3 and 4.

Effect and processors:
-------------------------------
2 Distressors
2 RNCs
2 Kurzweil Rumours
Lexicon MPX-1
Lexicon MPX-550

Outputs:
-------------------------------
Tascam DM 24 returns 1,2,3 and 4.


How would you guys set this up?

I should add that I have a standard 24-point balanced patchbay (AP audio systems, if anyone knows that one.

Thanks for all advice!
 
It's kind of a big subject and I don't ahve much time right now, so the only tidbit I'll offer is regarding the BG-1.

The way I have mine set up is that I use the XLR inputs directly on the BG-1, but I have the outputs wired to my patchbay. Since the mic inputs are on the front of the BG-1 they basically act their own patchbay, as I have my BG-1 in an easily accessible area next to my patchbays.
 
Thanks, I was assuming the same thing with the BG1 :)
 
Another thought is that I would normal the fx sends to the inputs on the fx boxes, and normal the fx outputs to the stereo returns on the Tascam. That way you don't need to bother with patch cables for your fx sends and returns, unless there is a special reason to patch them differently.

All that's left at that point is the inputs and outputs for the compressors and whatever you are doing with the preamps. Seems like it could be a pretty straightforward patchbay setup.
 
I have my patchbays labelled "From" and "To". "From" is the top row, and "To" is the bottom row. Each jack input is labelled as well, to avoid any confusion.

For some reason "From" and "To" has always worked better for me than "In" and "Out".
 
SonicAlbert said:
I have my patchbays labelled "From" and "To". "From" is the top row, and "To" is the bottom row. Each jack input is labelled as well, to avoid any confusion.

For some reason "From" and "To" has always worked better for me than "In" and "Out".
Click to expand...
Yeah, my buddy made the mistake of not labelling his inputs/outputs, and paid the price :) It should be job 1...
 
As far as labeling.....

The patchbays I use have numbered points, so I found it easier to make a chart which I keep next to the bays.

Pardon the fuzziness of the pic, but it's covered in plastic to keep it clean......
 

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I like the way you've color coded that chart. I also keep a chart of all my patchbay connections. It's easy to make one in a spreadsheet program.

As a matter of fact, I keep printed records of the complete wiring of my studio. In addition, I also keep printed records of my midi patchbay routings, what is connected to what I/O on the midi interfaces. This serves both the hardware and software end of it.

Having hard copies has saved me from time to time. Especailly when my main boot hard drive crashed and I had to rebuild all my settings from scratch.
 
Sweet! that's a great idea. Thanks.

MadAudio said:
The patchbays I use have numbered points, so I found it easier to make a chart which I keep next to the bays.

Pardon the fuzziness of the pic, but it's covered in plastic to keep it clean......
Click to expand...
 
SonicAlbert said:
For some reason "From" and "To" has always worked better for me than "In" and "Out".
Click to expand...

Send / Return is what confuses me.
 
hey bigwilz24 if you have "mackie type" inserts (most less expensive consoles are set up this way) where the send/return is on one TRS jack instead of the send and returns having their own separate balanced jacks you need a patchbay that is normalled or half-normaled to keep the integrity of the the insert point. Once you put a TRS cable into the jack at the insert point the connection is broken and the channel will not function unless the "circuit" is completed at the patchbay with by a normalled connection. Also most patchbays are balanced and the TRS insert done "mackie style" is unbalanced and it should still function but you may have to pull out a "click" to get it to work.
 
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