Quote:
Originally posted by Jay Kahrs
What's the advantage and disadvantage of each design? |
Using mic splitters to interface the recording truck, MON and FOH positions is a great idea. There are four ways you can split your mics.
1 - A transformer isolated splitter. A great way to get the job done. The transformer keeps you isolated from everyone else.
2 - A non-transformer splitter. (Y cords in a box) It's the least expensive, but not the smartest way to interface three consoles. Everyone is tied to each other. You could add ground lifts to the outputs, but this does not change the fact you're still tied to each other. Stationary facilities can get away with this, if the system is designed properly and you don't have any outside equipment additions, coming and going like "guest" consoles, etc.
3 - An active splitter with isolated splits. Nice device, because you have the transformer outputs and you have plenty of level to drive your long snake runs. Most active systems help prevent RFI problems too.
4 - An active splitter without isolated splits. Great for running long lines, but still a problem. See # 2 for explanation.
Real transformer isolated splitter systems are popular with many of the professional sound companies out there. Many have them as standard equipment. With some companies, you have to order it for your tour or dates special, just like you would if you needed an isolation transformer for your power. Remember this: All professional remote recording companies have both microphone and AC power isolation transformers.
You can build one yourself, but they are not cheap to build. You can buy them from various sources. BSS, Klark Teknik, Whirlwind, Wireworks, XTA among others, build and sell really nice splitter systems for a price.
With a transformer split, you are totally isolated from the direct signal when you connect to the secondary side of a transformer splitter system. There is no physical connection to the direct signal path. The direct (primary side) mic that feeds the console is the only one that can phantom power the mics. No voltage is present on the secondary side of the transformer. Besides helping eliminate ground loops caused by interfacing different systems, the console or snake connected to the secondary side of the splitter system can be crossed patched and/or totally shorted out (for that matter) without taking down the system or other consoles attached to it.
An isolation transformer splitter system is a great tool when interfacing to various systems like band monitor rigs, multiple desk dates, TV and radio feeds, mobile units and remote flypacks, etc. Pretty important stuff. Keep in mind an isolation transformer will only help ground loop problems created by interfacing different consoles together, not the ones you show up with;)