Half Normalled Patch Bay

Brent_Vino · Messages: 2,394 Registration: 01.05.2002

I recently purchased a Bantam half-normalled Patchbay. Are there any disadvantages to half-normalled patch bays, with potentially splitting the signal? Or for critical stuff (when repatching in front) patched, should I terminate the "normalled" connection by putting in a connector in the bottom? I'm just unfamiliar with any of the disadvantages, if there are any... Thanks!

shiggarfraggar · Messages: 352 Registration: 12.14.2003

Half-normal is normal. But, seriously, this is the typical normalled configuration in studios. Signal splitting can come in very handy. There's no downside, so go with it!

M50E30 · Messages: 281 Registration: 03.23.2002

Be careful half normaling digital (AES) signals. For the most part you can get away with it, but most patchbay manufacturers recomend against it. My patchbay is full of half normaled digital with no problems, but when the room was built, a few points had to be switched to full normal.

BrazeauRacing · Messages: 872 Registration: 08.02.2002

Sorry, I was only thinking analog. Surprised you get away with splitting AES signals; that's definitely NOT normal.

MJockey · Messages: 134 Registration: 04.10.2002

Thanks for the replies So there are no issues with running AES/EBU signals through the bay? That's good to hear. I have 24 channels of 96 that are non-normalled, so I'll probably just run digital through there.

Khoalty · Messages: 73 Registration: 05.10.2001

No, definitely do not run AES/EBU signals through a TT bay! You're going to be messing with impedance. The best solution for AES/EBU is something like a Z-SYS router (which also can solve a lot of ground loop problems with its transformer isolated AES/EBU circuitry). A Z-SYS will easily do multiple patches. If you're on a tight budget and have to go low ball, buy an XLR patchbay ( is a good source for stuff like that). If you've got an HD 192 interface or two, you can do a lot of AES/EBU routing. Lee Blaske