[sdiy] 1/4" vs. 1/8" (was: PAIA 9700 input jacks)

[media.nai at rcn.com]

>I think a lot of it has to do with the care given the equipment given by
>the owner. To some extent, a larger jack is more tolerant of abuse.
>
>As for the rest, it may be the stuff of urban (electrical) legend....


While 1/8" jacks do take up less space, there are at least ten issues:


1)  It's impossible to buy quality 1/8" patch cords "off the shelf".

2)  Even if you build them yourself, the best 1/4" plugs are better
    than the best 1/8" plugs  (ie. there are no Neutrik 1/8" plugs).

3)  Even if the best plugs were just as good,
    1/4" jacks can mate properly with better cables.

4)  A larger jack is more tolerant of abuse, and abuse in unavoidable.

5)  A larger contact area provides more protection against dirt
    and oxidation.

6)  1/4" jacks require more mechanical force, so they have better
    "self-cleaning" action.

7)  1/4" plugs require more mechanical force, so they are less likely
    to be pulled out by accident.

8)  1/4" jacks have thicker plating and therefore a longer surface life.

9)  There is no such thing as a 3.5mm burnishing tool.

10) 1/4" jacks are available in more switching configurations.


It's a 1/4" world.
Resistance is futile.