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Patchbay Questions
Here it is, after years of lurking, my inaugural post on Creative Cow. I’m setting up a patchbay for my edit suite (FCP w/ Blackmagic Multibridge Pro). I have multiple sources that utilize composite, component and SDI. I’ve never built a patchbay before and have encountered some questions, thanks in advance for any advice.
1. Is there any difference between building a video patch panel that uses BNC feed-thrus like this (thus you patch w/ BNC plugs) vs. a panel w/ rear bnc plugs but in the front uses typical patchcords w/ WE plugs like this Canare 32MD-ST?.
2. If I do go with something like the Canare 32MD-ST, is it better to have normal-through or straight-through jacks?
3. For patching my analog XLR sources, I was thinking something like this that has reversible feed-through male/female XLR. Seems to suit what I need, no soldering required. Look right?
Again, thanks for your thoughts!
John -
1 Reply
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you are describing components that are refered to as bulkhead panels, not patch bays.
The cheapest video patch bay for SDI and HD-SDI work is the Canare 242U-DVJAW. This is about $500 at most mail order companies, and uses “normalling” jacks, that follow the old standard “WECO” format (western electric company). If you dont’ want to spend $500, buy a used ADC PPI2224RSN on ebay. Using bulkhead BNC’s will drive you crazy.
For audio, there are wonderful 1/4″ TRS audio patch bays on the market today. I use the Behringer PX3000 ($49.99 new) all the time. It is a normalling patch bay, and is VERY VERY reliable. You will need 1/4″ to XLR cables for your VTR’s, and 1/4″ to RCA’s for your other consumer products.
Bob Zelin
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