Q: Can I use the Radial OX8 to split and drive line level signals?
A: You can use the Radial OX8 to accept line level signals by depressing the input PAD. The output will however be mic level as this is the norm with mic splitters.

Q: Can I use several OX8 splitters together instead of buying a snake system like the V12?
A: Yes you can. There does however come a point where the convenience of a full sized concert snake probably makes more sense. This really is a matter of choice and convenience.

Q: What is the advantage of a Jensen Transformer over a custom wound Radial transformer?
A: In our view, Jensen is the world’s premier transformer manufacturer. They are hand stacked, precision would on digitally controlled Swiss-made winders, and provide the very best sonic performance. The Radial transformers are for a lack of better word a reasonably good copy of a Jensen. Both have mu-metal outer shells and both are extremely linear: The Jensen extends from 10Hz to 40kHz while the Radial goes from 20Hz to 18.5kHz. The Jensen obviously costs more and is reccomended for high-resolution recording.

Q: Why did Radial chose D-Subs?
A: Back in the 90’s, Tascam began using D-Subs on their DA88 digital recorders and they quickly became one of the most popular connectors for digital recording formats on the planet. This makes finding the cables very easy in practically any music store. With 32 channels being connected (8 inputs and 24 outputs (3x8 outs) D-Subs provide a compact and workable solution that can fit in a single rack space. They can also be locked into place. So long as they are not constantly being connected and disconnected, they work well.

Q: What is the difference between an active splitter and a passive one?
A: An active splitter is basically a multi-channel preamplifier that performs the function of your mixing console by providing 48V phantom power to the condenser mics and active direct boxes while also acting as the primary signal amplifier. Active splitters are generally used when driving extremely long cables and feeding several sources.

The downside to active splitters is that the quality of your audio will be 100% dependent on the quality of the preamps inside your splitter. Most engineers prefer to use a serious quality mixing console for their audio. If you are spending $50,000 on a 48 channel mixer, it is doubtful that a relatively low cost splitter will sound as good, especially when all 48 channels are being driven hard.

The other problem with active splitters (and digital snakes for that matter) is control. Or more specifically, who is in control of the signal path? When a mic is connected to a passive splitter like the Radial OX8 or a snake like the Radial V12 Convertible, because the feed from the mic is directly coupled to each console, each of the house, monitor, recording and broadcast engineers can control the input level going into their mixer. With an active splitter (or digital snake) the input level is set by one master; the rest are slaves. This means that if the house mixer is designated ‘master’ and decided to increase the trim level on his console, the other engineers will have to scramble to adjust as they are the ‘slaves’. Imagine the poor monitor engineer having to explain why the lead singer’s ears have just been blasted out… this is how jobs are lost and why most touring professionals and broadcasters demand passive splitters. Isn’t it refreshing to know that common sense still outweighs hype in some cases!