Mixing Balanced/Unbalanced outputs in patchbays.

[stevetgn]

How are you guys wiring your outboard to your patchbays when using an XLR balanced output compressor (C2 & P38 in my case) used sometimes with a unbalanced "insert socket" on the the desk and sometimes with a balanced "direct out" etc.

I'm finding that sometimes I have to have the plug pulled half way out to get any signal and the concept of mixing balanced & unbalanced is worring me.

Just so you know: All the insert sockets on my desk are wired to an unbalanced patchbay and all the "balanced" XLR input/outputs of my outboard is wired to a balanced patchbay.

Then there's the point of when and where to use balanced or unbalanced patch cables?

Its all getting a bit scary!

[Geoff_T]

Hi

I have to admit that I don't like the concept of mixing balanced and unbalanced signals on a patchbay because it's a recipe for ground loop issues.

That aside, if you mainly have unbalanced insert points then you have little choice.

I guess that the best path for minimal issues is to wire the unbalanced points as if they were balanced with hot on the tip, the signal's 0v return on the ring and ground on the sleeve.

Wired this way the jack would have to be pushed all the way in to get a signal.

I would recommend not using mono jack plugs or, if you must, not wiring the sleeve to ground on the inserts that are unbalanced.

[bob katz]

You can deal with intermixing balanced and unbalanced OUTPUTS in a patchbay a lot easier than intermixing balanced and unbalanced inputs. If ALL your inputs are balanced you can use a balanced patchbay and have some unbalanced outputs. Just wire the ring to ground and things will work, as long as the levels of the unbalanced outputs are not too low for the gain makeup of the next piece of gear in line. But ALL your inputs must be balanced for this to work well.

Coincidentally, the next installment of my column in Resolution magazine, for September, will be covering this subject of getting balanced and unbalanced gear to play well with each other. Doesn't hurt to subscribe, it's a great magazine. You get John Watkinson in there!

BK