Multi-pin Footswitch Connector Suggestions??

[Deric]

I'm looking for options/suggestions for multi-pin footswitch connectors. Looking for 4-6 conductors. Want it to be removable at both ends (amp and footswitch) without being too bulky.

So far I'm considering multi-pin XLR type or RJ-45 connectors. Suggestions? Smaller/compact is better.

[d2camero]

Two options:

(1) 5 pin DIN connector. You can use the marshall style which is splyed out a bit, or use the common audio style which is used on MIDI connectors.

(2) Mini DIN connector. Avaliable at mouser, digikey etc. Can get up to 9 connectors incl ground.

d2

[mhuss]

For sturdiness I like the XLR type. However, if you use a standard cat-5 cable, you can buy replacements anywhere and in multiple lengths.

--mark

[odourboy]

I think you've really already got the two most viable options... XLR and DIN.

For XLR, there's a 5 pin version which is often referred to as DMX and is used in stage lighting control. You may find it easier (and cheaper) to locate a DMX cable than a 5-pin XLR. This system is obviously sturdy and 'pro' but the downside is the chassis mount connectors are quite bulky.

On my last build I used DIN connectors (5-pin 180 degree female on each end) and a standard MIDI cable to interconnect them. Nice because MIDI cables are cheap, available in may lengths and offer 5 conductors plus shield.

[Tonegeek]

On my last build I used DIN connectors (5-pin 180 degree female on each end) and a standard MIDI cable to interconnect them. Nice because MIDI cables are cheap, available in may lengths and offer 5 conductors plus shield.

+1 just buy a spare for when a stage challenged funster steps on it

[Fredaxis]

May be an interesting alternative:

http://cgi.ebay.com/3-7-Pin-Male-Female ... dZViewItem

[Deric]

Thanks for the tips.

I think I'm leaning towards Cat-5. I like the easy to replace anywhere/anytime thing. Neutrik does them with an XLR type housing for durablilty. The only drawback to the XRL type is finding a socket that will easily fit in a small footswitch box.

Is there a 5-pin DIN socket with some sort of lock mechanism that will still work with a standard MIDI cord in a pinch?

[paulster]

There is a 5-pin DIN with a latching clip that keys into a corresponding DIN socket (similar to an XLR latch). These are definitely compatible with regular DIN connectors. A lot of MIDI leads seem to be latching actually.

There's also a better twist-lock variety but I can't remember offhand whether they're compatible with normal plugs. I think they might be, since the locking ring sits quite proud of the connector.

[Deric]

After a bunch of digging thru web-sites and catalogs, I think I'm going to go with Neutrik Cat-Con RJ-45. It has the durability and solid locking connection of XLR type plugs and the ability to work with any standard RJ-45 cable in a pinch.

Thanks for the input!