Niles AXP1 or What RCA Switch Do You Use?

[cel4145]

Looking at picking up the Niles AXP-1 through OneCall for $81 to switch between my Little Dot I+ and HK 3390 receiver. Based on what I have read, seems like this is good unit for the price that doesn't add in interference to the signal.  
 
However, I would not mind spending less if there's something with similar audio quality. Probably prefer a switch with at least three inputs in case I want to add another headphone amplifier later. 
 
What do you guys use? 

 

[obobskivich]

I've got a JVC with mechanical buttons that go "click-clack" - SX111 or something like that. I know they had a few models in the series - the top end one apparently has a remote and more inputs than any ten men need. Never noticed any noise coming through.

I think RadioShack still sells a basic A/B switch that's decently enough put together too - should only be like $20 too. Basically my experience is that if the switch is mechanical, it doesn't/shouldn't create problems - the active switches are the ones that sometimes make trouble.

 

[cel4145]

Quote:

Basically my experience is that if the switch is mechanical, it doesn't/shouldn't create problems - the active switches are the ones that sometimes make trouble.

 
Thanks! That's good to know. I was wondering what the design characteristics would be for ones that don't create problems. 

 

[obobskivich]

Thanks! That's good to know. I was wondering what the design characteristics would be for ones that don't create problems. 

I'm sure there's really bad mechanical ones out there, that have screwed up grounding or similar, but IME passive + mechanical usually means it'll work alright. If you want remote actuation or similar, I'd spend a few more dollars.

 

[cel4145]

Quote:

I'm sure there's really bad mechanical ones out there, that have screwed up grounding or similar, but IME passive + mechanical usually means it'll work alright. If you want remote actuation or similar, I'd spend a few more dollars.

 
 
I read some reviews on Amazon. Some of them have obvious ground loop problems. And then most are AV switchers with cheap plastic buttons. Perhaps they hold up? I was just hoping there was a definitive cheap one on head-fi that everyone buys, and thirty people have said, "Works great!" 

 
So I think I'm just going to go with the Niles. I bet that mechanical knob on it will last forever. I know it's probably only $15 in parts or less to build (not my skillset), but I probably will still have that switcher 30 years from now and it will still be working. LOL

 

[obobskivich]

The JVC I have has plastic buttons - it seems to be in fine condition. I took it apart and re-painted the cabinet a while back (the paint was scuffed, I wanted it to look nice again), but beyond that it's 100%.

The A/V switching thing has never been an issue imho - more lines to switch. I've used the component video switcher ones to cycle between 6ch sources before - works fine, no grounding problems, etc.

Personally I'd just grab something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/RCA-VH911-Video-Switch-Box/dp/B00008X5DE/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1352686101&sr=8-7&keywords=RCA+A%2FB+switch

If it's no good, 30-day moneyback, and then get the Niles. I also know there's a more audiophile-type company that makes a rotary switch, Mapleshade? MapleTree? They have "Maple" in their name, I know that much.

 

[cel4145]

Thanks. I considered that one earlier, but I went ahead and ordered the Niles a few minutes ago. Figured if I was going to 2nd guess myself over a choice, might as well spend the extra money. 

 

[obobskivich]

Figured if I was going to 2nd guess myself over a choice, might as well spend the extra money. 

Hey I hear ya.