Patchbays

[MCI2424]

I need a patchbay that is switchable from balanced to unbalanced inputs/outputs. If I have a mic pre that is balanced I want to be able to convert from balanced in to unbalanced out without the 6db loss. It must be active. Also, if I have an unbalanced input (RNP/RNC) I want to be able to convert the input form unbalanced to balanced to go to a balanced tape machine's inputs.

So, inputs and outputs to this patchbay have to be switchable through active circuits.

Am I just dreaming?

A Fostex 16 channel Tape Machine has 16 unbalanced ins and 16 unbalanced outs, so buying 32 channels of unbalanced to bal anced converters is too expensive.

Also I would like to configure the patchbay remotely through a GUI (probably MIDI)

 

[bigtoe]

i guess i'm not understanding why you need active circuits.

you can either use transformers or tie (-) and ground together or float the ground depending on whether the nature of balanced out. i think it's float the ground... i'm surprised i'm not electrocuted...so check this info out...or someone pipe in.

also is your fostex +4? you might want that - 6dB loss from balanced output to unbalanced input.

remember the dangers of running micpres thru your patchbay...48V issues...

i have no clue what the GUI thing is about.

it sounds like what you are trying to do costs way more than a a couple level switching boxes.

Half baked,
Mike

 

[SonicAlbert]

First of all, what you are talking about would be very very expensive. It might very well exist, but again it will be mind-numbingly expensive. Especially remote controlled through a computer based GUI.

As Mike suggested, you'd probably be better of figuring this out using level switching boxes. You'd use a regular balanced patchbay and do the level switching before or after it, depending on the gear. It wouldn't be remotely controlled, but it would be practical and a heck of a lot more affordable.