[ddageek]

First you need a splitter (very few FOH guys are even going to let you use their direct outs) and don't skimp on the splitter cheap transformers distort way to easily! If you can solder think Jensen transformers!

at 16 inputs your going to find yourself running out fast!

and The big difference between beginners is having a back up!

I think the patchbay is a great Idea but the low end ones are going to ware out so as a patch panel DIY an XLR panel so you an use common XLR mic cables (you can always find a mic cable in a pinch! XLR to quarter are harder to find when the doo doo hits the fan!