[Elecraft] More on N0SS K3 External Speaker Splitter

[Paul Christensen]

It's unfortunate that 1/8-inch TRS jacks have become so popular in the 
consumer audio world.  Their use seems to have accelerated with the advent 
of PC sound cards.

My experience has been that pro-grade 1/4-inch TRS connectors are more 
reliable than any 1/8-inch type as well as inferior-quality 1/4-inch 
connectors.  But for the fact that these connectors typically carry two 
circuits, RCA connectors are far more reliable for unbalanced audio 
connections due to their concentric grip of the inner and outer conductors. 
Darn, I actually prefer equipment with screw-down barrier strips and where 
needed, create detachable cords with Molex connectors if a quick disconnect 
arrangement is needed.

TRS jacks utilize a single pressure point and reliability degrades over 
time -- usually due to oxidation and dust build-up.  Lubricants like DeOxit 
and Cramolin seem to help but if I was to install an Internet-based station 
at some remote location, I would want to remove all traces of TRS connectors 
to the best extent possible.

Paul, W9AC

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Jim Brown" <jim at audiosystemsgroup.com>
To: "Elecraft List" <elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Tuesday, January 05, 2010 5:41 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] More on N0SS K3 External Speaker Splitter


> On Tue, 5 Jan 2010 17:25:47 -0500, Guy Olinger K2AV wrote:
>
>>Completely DISagree.  Panel space is at a premium, and amplified
>>speakers DO come with a stereo plug.  Tip-sleeve plugs are *SO* 1950s.
>> Stick with your first answer.
>
> Sure, panel space is at a premium. That's why the choice was made. But
> it's a bad choice, for the reasons stated. The vast majority of AMPLIFIED
> loudspeakers have severe RFI problems. The appearance of specialized
> products like the West Mountain units are quite new, and a reaction to
> that reality. Their website says they come with a 3-circuit 1/8-inch
> JACK, so you still need a 3-circuit plug to plug patch cable.
>
> 73,
>
> Jim K9YC
>
>
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