ULTRAPATCH PRO PX2000
3
about is to be avoided at all costs. It is best to plug mics directly into the mixing console or via special XLR-type wall
boxes connected to the mic inputs of the console by good-quality balanced multicore cables (2-cond. + shield).
2. PATCHBAY ORGANIZATION
Let us give you an example configuration that shows how you can most effectively use your patchbays. We assume
you own a mixing console with 16 mic/line inputs plus inserts, 8 direct outputs, 8 subgroups with 4 inserts, 4 aux
paths with 2 stereo returns and one stereo master output including insert jacks. Added to this we have an 8-track
recorder (digital or analog), a few pieces of outboard equipment (FX, dynamics & EQs), a CD player, tape deck, HiFi
system and a headphones amp:
1
2
3
4
In the first eight modules of patchbay
1
the subgroup outputs are directly connected to the corresponding multitrack
inputs. In addition to that it is also possible to record the signals coming from a subgroup on a different track of the
multitrack. To save space and provide a clearly structured configuration, the direct outputs are connected both to the
top and bottom jacks. Modules 17 & 18 are the stereo master output, which is half-normalled and thus allows for
recording both to the DAT recorder and the tape deck, simply by patching it accordingly. Modules 19 & 20 (tape deck)
are open, because it does not make sense connecting the inputs and outputs of the tape deck. 21 & 22 are normalled
and route the DAT recorder outputs to the 2 TRK-ins of the mixing console. So it always is possible to control the
recorded data on the 2-track from the mixing console. The CD player and the HiFi system are connected to modules
23 & 24, which are open, because they only serve as a source.
In patchbay
2
the first 16 modules are normalled (1 through 8 IN could also be used to connect the corresponding
monitor inputs if the console has a separate monitor section). MIDI devices such as samplers, expanders,
keyboards, etc. are usually set up in every corner of the room. To make the cabling better structured we route these
units to modules 9 through 16. This allows further workmanship of the MIDI devices at the mixing console. Modules
17 through 20 are normalled and have the FX inputs and the aux sends connected, 21 through 24 are also normalled
and are patched to the two stereo aux returns with the FX outputs.
In patchbay
3
, modules 1 through 16 are for the channel insert. These modules are half-normalled, so that you
have an additional route for the channel signals. The same applies to the insert paths of the subgroups and the
master output. The headphones amp is connected to 23 & 24, which are normalled and connected to the control room
outputs of the mixing console. Of course, you can also use pre-fader aux paths for the headphones mix.
