XLR switcher

[nonsuchpro]

Hey all,
I'm trying to build a stereo XLR switch. Stereo in, 2 pair stereo out. Does anybody have any diagrams for wiring a switch? How many contacts are needed for ? and what about termination?

Thanks in advance!

(p.s... I found this but I don't understand it.)
http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/6025/dpdthy0.jpg

[Pano]

The linked diagram is what you want - almost. You'll need one for each channel.
Count the L&R in the diagram as XLR pins 2&3. Pin 1 is ground and does not need to be switched.

The XLR has two signal wires so you need a 2 pole switch.

[nonsuchpro]

Originally Posted by Pano

The linked diagram is what you want - almost. You'll need one for each channel.
Count the L&R in the diagram as XLR pins 2&3. Pin 1 is ground and does not need to be switched.

The XLR has two signal wires so you need a 2 pole switch.

Thank You. This is a response to that diagram:

"That is certainly the cheap and cr$p way to do it as you need to 'terminate' the speakers that are supposed to be 'off'. A simple cheat would be to put say 620 Ohm resistors across all 4 of the output XLRs. The reason is that unterminated you are liable to pick up hum and interference. The proper way would be with an 8 pole switch (unless you can figure out a cunning way of using fewer poles) to make the switchover and terminate"

[Pano]

The termination isn't a bad idea, but may not be needed. I would not use 620 ohms, tho.
How will this be used?

[nonsuchpro]

Originally Posted by Pano

The termination isn't a bad idea, but may not be needed. I would not use 620 ohms, tho.
How will this be used?

I have no idea... that was the last post on that subject, and it was from 2004. heh.
From the Gearslutz forum.

I hate to spend the money on an XLR switcher, they seem unnecessarily expensive. the cheapest one that will suit my needs is close to $200!

[nonsuchpro]

I'm looking at these 2:
http://www.markertek.com/Audio-Equip...CH-WITCH.xhtml
http://www.markertek.com/Audio-Equip...udio/MS6.xhtml

I know i can make one for way cheaper but it may not be worth the time.

[AndrewT]

You can use signal relays as the actual switching elements.
A single control switch then sets up which relays close and which open.

[Pano]

Yep, relays would work. But you'll need a power supply to run them. A surplus or used wall wart could do the trick.

Or use a rotary switch. You'll need 4 poles and 2 positions. You can also get that in a toggle switch, look for part # 7401P3YZQI22 at Mouser.com
A402S1RNCBE for a 4 pole rotary switch.

Be sure you add up all costs. Switch, knob, chassis XLR connectors, chassis, screws, wire, relays if you use them. See if you come out much cheaper that what you can buy.

[nonsuchpro]

Originally Posted by Pano

Yep, relays would work. But you'll need a power supply to run them. A surplus or used wall wart could do the trick.

Or use a rotary switch. You'll need 4 poles and 2 positions. You can also get that in a toggle switch, look for part # 7401P3YZQI22 at Mouser.com
A402S1RNCBE for a 4 pole rotary switch.

Be sure you add up all costs. Switch, knob, chassis XLR connectors, chassis, screws, wire, relays if you use them. See if you come out much cheaper that what you can buy.

Well, I did some quick research but I wouldn't feel comfortable building one with relays and stuff, I'm not really that savvy. I'm looking at used stuff now. It seems I can get what I need cheaper that way and feel confident that it's made correctly.
Thanks for the responses!

[ODougbo]

Did you check with MCM? A good comply with typically low prices.
http://www.mcmelectronics.com/
The MCM “finder” can be troublesome; you can always give them a call.