Many of the seasoned Integrators/Programmers who’ve posted on this topic have offered great input. They seem to be very happy and confident with their recommendations. I have done some follow up and read the usual - - technical specs, device capabilities, and user manuals.

In this project I’ll be primarily using a T-4, K-4, T3, T2C and some RK-1’s. My switching needs are these: 8x8 component, coaxial digital audio and breakaway stereo analog audio. I’d like to ramp volume through RS-232 and preferably, the ability to set fixed volume maximums on the outputs. I’ve narrowed down my choices to: Knox Video, Kramer, Sierra Video, Key Digital and Vaux Electronics.

Some of these manufacturers say they can switch the digital audio (S/PDIF) by using the extra video portion. Example: “Your needs are to switch component and digital audio. You obtain an RGBHV switcher and use the “H or V” input for your digital audio portion.” On the other hand, I’ve heard a statement to the contrary from a technician with another company who contends that their RGBHV switchers cannot do this. The claim is that the digital bandwidth for S/PDIF can get “chopped” a bit in the matrix portion. His solution would be to use a higher end “AES” board to pass the digital audio. Yet, Key Digitals “Fat Boy” allows you to pass the digital coaxial or Horizontal/Vertical on those same input/outputs. Not sure about this.

Some matrix switchers have internal volume control modules. But if I choose to use a switcher that has no internal volume control, what’s a good solution for controlling the volume on a 16-channel amp aside from electric standalone volume controls?

Finally, I’ve come across a couple of other switchers which I’ve yet to hear much of. Those brands are Clear Blue Audio, and Convergent Living. Anybody have any experience with these companies?

Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks

I'd look at www.autopatch.com for the features you want including the volume. Unless you use amps w/ integrated volume control like Marantz ZS-5300 or integra MZA 4.3 with a switcher like Neopro Borrego (www.neothings.com). I think the autopatch with multi channel amp will be less expensive than the other matrix switchers with amps that have volume control.

Other than the two brands I mentioned Neopro and autopatch I have only used Key digital. I haven't used it for volume but all work fine. Some of the older Key Digitals had some bandwidth problems but I think that has been solved.

Bob

Autopatch sold out to AMX

I just did something similar (sans the digital audio) using an autopatch 8x8 component/stereo audio switcher paired with a Sonance 875D 8 channel 232 controllable amp (w/ volume control, mute, temp status, zone and or channel control, etc...) I decided to not go with the volume controlled switcher and go with this amp instead... works great and sounds great too. You could use 2 to serve your 16 channels.

BTW... you can still deal autopatch without becomming an AMX dealer.

I did consider the Marantz 5300, Autopatch Precis series and the Neopro line. We're not a dealer for Autopatch but I'm going to call them tomorrow.

Like the idea of using 2 Sonance 875D controllable amps. Should go well with the Sonance Symphony speakers.

I lke the Neo products as well. It looks as if they will be coming out with an RCA in-CAT5 out component switcher with destination end CAT5 receivers. I saw it a Cedia... looked cool.

One of the coolest aspects of the Autopatch is the serial control. It is so simple that you do not need to look at the documentation to create the command strings...

C=Change (or initiate)
D=Disconnect
T=Take (enter or complete task)
I=Input
O=Output
L1=level one (video only)
L2=level two (audio only)
No line command switches both

CI2O4T... change input 1 to output 4 and take(enter).
CL1I2O4 5 6T... change video input 1 to output 4,5 and 6 and take.
DO6T... Disconnect output 6 and take

Already got the paperwork going for Autopatch. Like the ease of the serial command control and looks as if their price points are within reason. Thanks tgrugget, RTI Installer and BobL for you all your input.