Balanced Switchbox

Well, I haven't built this box yet, but I'm thinking about it. I'm thinking a 4 position box with one 4-pin XLR output and three 4-pin XLR inputs, and one TRS input. The idea is to be able to connect multiple amps to the box and one headphone, then be able to switch between the amps.

This assumes there is a way to get the same input into the amps. In some case, some amps have  pass-through. Some DACs have multiple outputs. At worse, I would use my other switch box to split the DAC output. Then, with a two handed switch, I could still switch amps with very little time for the switch.

Cross talk between amp inputs might be an issue.

So, to start, here's my hypothetical parts list:

• The Switch:

  • Manufacturer # 71B36-02-2-04N (also, 3 and 5 position for same cost)

  • 4 position, 2 deck, 2 pole

  • Manufacturer: Grayhill

  • Non-shorting

  • $18.39 plus shipping $4.99 = 23.38

  • The switch needs a knob, but I have extras. If you build it, remember to get one.

• Alternative Switch with 4 decks. 4 decks might have less crosstalk.

  • Manufacturer # 71B30-04-1-04N

  • 4 position, 4 deck, 1 pole

  • Manufacturer: Grayhill

  • Non-shorting

  • $25.18 plus shipping $4.99 = 30.18

  • The switch needs a knob, but I have extras. If you build it, remember to get one.

• The Jacks (Markertk):

  • Neutrik NC4FD-L-B-1 D-Series 4-Pin XLR Female Blk/Gold ($6.45/ea)

  • Neutrik NJ3FP6C-B 1/4in TRS Chassis Mount Black and Gold ($7.72/ea)

• The Cables (Markertek)

  • Neutrik NP3X-B X-Series 1/4in 3-Conductor Phone Plug Black and Gold ($5.60/ea)

  • Neutrik NC4MXX-BAG 4 Pole Male XLR Cable Connector - Black/Silver ($3.65/ea)

  • Canare L-4E6S quad mic cable ($0.99/ft)

    • enough to build 3-foot cables

• The Box (Amazon):

  • BUD Industries CU-3283 Plastic Style A Utility Box, 6-3/32" Length x 4-19/32" Width x 2-23/64" Height, Black Texture Finish ($9.70)

    • lager box, good if using jacks for inputs.

  • BUD Industries CU-3281 Plastic Style A Utility Box, 4-19/32" Length x 3-3/32" Width x 1-55/64" Height, Black Texture Finish ($7.82)

    • smaller box. good if building with hard-wired cables, instead of jacks

See the breakdown here:

Here's my actual build:

• Switch with 4 decks. Manufacturer # 71B30-04-1-04N ($30.17)

• BUD Industries CU-3281 Plastic Style A Utility Box, 4-19/32" Length x 3-3/32" Width x 1-55/64" Height, Black Texture Finish ($7.82)

• 12' - Canare L-4E6S quad mic cable ($0.99/ft) 

• 4 - Neutrik NC4MXX-BAG 4 Pole Male XLR Cable Connector - Black/Silver ($3.65/ea)

• 1 - Neutrik NC4FD-L-B-1 D-Series 4-Pin XLR Female Blk/Gold ($6.45/ea)

• 4 - Nylon Cable Glands to affix the cables to box for strain relief.  ($5.99/10 pack)