Topic: V3 SPDIF splitter

[Jhurlbs81]

Would a splitter off the V3's SPDIF cause issues?  I want to run to my Microtrack and a 001 at the same time.  I could always use the XLR outs, but that takes up two of my channels on the 001.  Using the SPDIF gives me two extra...sorta..

[bagtagsell]

You could build an AES>SPDIF cable.

[todd e]

using something like this would be easy and very cost-effective.

[Craig T]

using something like this would be easy and very cost-effective.

that's what I use.  no problems.

[Jhurlbs81]

sweet.  you guys rock

[LeftoverSammy]

using something like this would be easy and very cost-effective.

that's what I use.  no problems.

I disagree....I've run a split SPDIF signal from my UA-5 and V3 in the past (to two different decks) and experienced drop outs and other digital anomalies/artifacts that seem to happen ramdomly (not always). As a rule of thumb I was always told never to split your SPDIF output to your main recording deck/platform. A digital patchbay would be the safest bet I think, but more costly.

You may never experience an issue splitting an incoming (to a deck) but it can cause problems and many times is not worth the risk IMO.  I understand the temptation to use one of these splitters.......just thought you might want to know it has and can cause issues. Can't explain why exactly....as I don't recall...

I've had extensive discussions with other tapers and rarely in my experience find folks who do this.....but it can & is being done.  Just my .02 from the peanut gallery 

[bluegrass_brad]

using something like this would be easy and very cost-effective.

I have used one like this for a long time with no problems at all.  The only time I had problems was when using the cheap ass Radio Shack Y splitters.

[plucks]

yes, a patchbay is more consistent & safer than a splitter

[bconnolly]

Anyone have any recommendations for patch bays to use? How much do they usually run?

[LeftoverSammy]

using something like this would be easy and very cost-effective.

I have used one like this for a long time with no problems at all.  The only time I had problems was when using the cheap ass Radio Shack Y splitters.

Ah Grasshopper, I see your point, Crap Shack hardware does have its quality issues from time to time.  But what is there really to this simple device or between devices that could affect the digital signal and cause errors? Its just a simple splitter......

Sorry, not to drag this on, but I've always wondered...

Any suggestions?

[bluegrass_brad]

Besides one being gold, I really dont know the difference.  All I do know is that the Rat shack splitter gave me troubles everytime I tried it (3 times).  Since I got the gold splitter I haven't had one problem out of probably 25 or so uses over the last three years. 

[Brian Skalinder]

Big benefit in my mind of the AES > coax method, and one of the reasons I use this method:  a locking cable on the V3 side and no patchers with whom to contend.  Locking cable ensures secure connection, and giving patchers the coax means there's no chance of them unplugging their gear and accidently hosing your gear (e.g. by yanking the splitter off the feed cable, as opposed to pulling the patch cable out of the splitter).

[Simp-Dawg]

well, i've used the rat shack gold splitter without issue so i'd say it is at least a viable method for a cheap price.

next best (possibly the best) would be the locking aes > coax cable, which can be made by several board members, though i personally recommend todd ramsden of the colorado crue and his dogstar segue enterprises line.  not to discount marc kim (leegeddy's) own bumblebee line, or deadheaded's kind kables...all are fantastic cable makers.  this gives you and your patchers completely separate digi-outs from the v3...if patchers want to split the one you're not using, let them go ahead, even if they yank out the main deck/splitter you're still safe on your end.

of course the digital patchbay is another option, but i'd say let the patchers supply that...you're supplying the source, if you give them a second digi out from your v3 and they supply the patchbay you're golden no matter what, and as long as they have power to the 'bay so are they.

[anhisr]

For the same reason I use an AES>SPDIF cable.  That way the patchers can be their worst enemy.

[bluegrass_brad]

well, i've used the rat shack gold splitter without issue so i'd say it is at least a viable method for a cheap price.

Yeah, I was talking about those cheap silver Y shaped splitters (ala the ones used for the oade active cables for the M1/D8).  My gold one is actually a Rat Shack as well.