Anyone in the audio-visual biz? Need a suggestion...

[Fantom1]

I'm trying to purchase an audio video switcher/scaler matrix (at least 4x2), and would like to find one used somewhere. Does anyone know of websites were rental houses, churches, people, etc. sell used equipment?

This stuff makes boutique guitar gear seem like an incredible bargain :messedup

Thanks!

[amigo30]

Tell us a little more about what you're trying to accomplish.

[Fantom1]

The switching of two PCs (sending both ppts and videos) and a video camera to two projectors.

[amigo30]

Usually when I'm trying to do something like that, I use seperate HDMI matrix devices and seperate audio devices.

Check out Key Digital for decent HDMI matrix devices at reasonable costs. CE Labs makes some very inexpensive and simple audio switchers. Just run the audio/video signals separately into the inputs. You will probably need some DVI to HDMI adaptors...or you could go a seperate way and use baluns over cat6.

The right way to do what you're doing is to use Crestron...but the bucks add up really fast going that route.

[megalowmatt]

Hey Fantom-

I'm in the San Diego area as well. If you want to rent some gear to check it out, try this place: http://www.broadcastrentals.com/

They are in the Miramar area and great to work with.

A few other questions: What application are you using this for and does it need true dissolve/cut capability? Is it for a church? If you need broadcast quality cuts/dissolves, you'll probably need something like the Panasonic WJ-MX50. But you'll need a couple scan converters for the PC's to convert the VGA signal to composite, component, etc.

If you want to just switch using hard cuts or preset dissolves there may be a couple Extron switchers out there that may fit your needs and be less expensive than the Panasonic. I don't remember the Extron model # off the top of my head.

Hope this helps.

matt

[Fantom1]

Thanks guys. It is for seminars.

Amigo 30- Using seperate devices is not something I'd really like to do, especially since there are so many 2-4RU devices that can do it all. Ya, Creston, Barco, Analog Way, and Extron all make great products, but they are expensive, which is why I was trying to find a used one.

Megalowmatt- Thanks for the suggestion. I assume you mean a "true seamless" capability? This isn't necessary. I think I'm going to go with something like a Knox Gamma 4x2.

My main concern is that the audio and video from the camera might not be synced, but given my budget I think the 2-3 frame lag may just be something that I have to live with.

Thanks again!

[bigolcasino]

Are the projectors seeing redundant images? On either side of the presenter with a fanned out audience? If so, wouldn't a simple Scaling switcher work with dual outputs work?
These are very easy to use, and have seamless cuts and PIP:
http://www.allprosound.com/catalog/productdetails.asp?fprodid=2401&item=Kramer%20-%20VP-720XL

[megalowmatt]

If you're looking at the Knox, check out the Extron 1508. I think the street price is roughly the same and there's room to grow with the 1508.

Hers's the spec from the Extron website:http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=in1508&subtype=149

I use one of these for a similar application that you describe and it is a great unit with many output ratios.

matt

[Fantom1]

Where it gets tricky is throwing in the matrix part of it. I want to be able to run the output independantly on the projectors in the combos of: AA, BB, CC, AB, CB, etc.

So that when a presenter is speaking, there is video on one screen for the audience in the back, and the presentation on the other screen.

[megalowmatt]

Where it gets tricky is throwing in the matrix part of it. I want to be able to run the output independantly on the projectors in the combos of: AA, BB, CC, AB, CB, etc.

So that when a presenter is speaking, there is video on one screen for the audience in the back, and the presentation on the other screen.

AAAhhhh, that makes a big difference and the Extron does not do that. Can the Knox mix the two outputs as you describe? I could not find enough information on it.