For anyone having multiple optical devices and 1 input...

Bacstar

Golden Member
Nov 2, 2006
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I only have one optical input on my receiver which I'm using with my Xbox360. Now, I'm adding a PS3 into the setup which has an optical out as well. Has anyone tried using a splitter yet and had any problems going this route?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002MQGR2

Update1: The splitter didn't work. I only got one side of it to work. However....after taking it apart, I was able to use a few pieces to jimmy-rig the cables so I can at least interlock each end as needed when I switch between the PS3 or the Xbox. It's kinda funny. It looks like two fishing lines jammed into one fitting.

Update2:

Found a device that works like an HDMI multi-port switch but for optical devices... So if anyone is in the same predicament, hope this helps...

http://www.inday.com/da4x/da4x.htm
 
 

YOyoYOhowsDAjello

Moderator<br>A/V & Home Theater<br>Elite member
Aug 6, 2001
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I believe this is designed to take one output to two inputs as stated here
http://www.monoprice.com/produ..._id=966&seq=1&format=2
(similar if not the same product)

But if you have the right kind of devices, it would be able to work in your case too. Check out the Amazon reviews. If your devices stop sending any sort of optical signal when not in use, then it might work for you.

There are enough negative reviews of this product that I think you should consider using something else.

An optical switch would do what you want it to do.
 

Bacstar

Golden Member
Nov 2, 2006
1,273
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Originally posted by: YOyoYOhowsDAjello
I believe this is designed to take one output to two inputs as stated here
http://www.monoprice.com/produ..._id=966&seq=1&format=2
(similar if not the same product)

But if you have the right kind of devices, it would be able to work in your case too. Check out the Amazon reviews. If your devices stop sending any sort of optical signal when not in use, then it might work for you.

There are enough negative reviews of this product that I think you should consider using something else.

An optical switch would do what you want it to do.

I didn't read all the reviews, but it seemed most of the problems were with devices that kept putting out a signal even if the device was turned off. The PS3 and Xbox get turned off when one or the other isn't in use. It's also the kind where i don't have to get up and flip or turn a switch which I'm a firm believer in the more moving parts there are, the quicker things break kinda crowd. Plus for the price, it's worth a shot. I could always try something else if it doesn't work.

Edit: I'm also open to other solutions or suggestions...short of buying a new receiver :)

 

YOyoYOhowsDAjello

Moderator<br>A/V & Home Theater<br>Elite member
Aug 6, 2001
31,204
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As long as you've checked that the optical signal cuts when the device is off, then it seems like you would be good to go if the thing works.
 

Modelworks

Lifer
Feb 22, 2007
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It will work, just don't try to run the cables too far.
Any time you couple or split an optical signal there is loss.
I don't know exactly how much, but as long as the cables are kept kinda short you should be fine.
 

Bacstar

Golden Member
Nov 2, 2006
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Originally posted by: Modelworks
It will work, just don't try to run the cables too far.
Any time you couple or split an optical signal there is loss.
I don't know exactly how much, but as long as the cables are kept kinda short you should be fine.

Good to know. I ordered a pair of the shortest i could get away with (1 meter each). I'm kinda worried about the one I currently have when I initially got the xbox which is probably a 6 footer, so we'll see how it goes.
 

thecoolnessrune

Diamond Member
Jun 8, 2005
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I use one with a 6ft. length going into my receiver. No loss problems at all. Heck, one of my inputs is a 30ft. run. No problems at all.
 

Modelworks

Lifer
Feb 22, 2007
16,240
7
76
Originally posted by: thecoolnessrune
I use one with a 6ft. length going into my receiver. No loss problems at all. Heck, one of my inputs is a 30ft. run. No problems at all.

16 feet or so is the max for the spec.
I wouldn't recommend anything longer.
it will probably work, but if it doesn't you can't really complain.