Flock Audio have announced that the Patch VT, the latest addition to their range of digitally controlled patchbay systems, is now shipping. Originally announced at this year’s NAMM show, the new system packs 64 inputs and 64 outputs into a 3U rackmount chassis, and offers many of the features found on the larger, flagship Patch XT.
As with the other offerings in the company’s range, the Patch VT is an analogue routing matrix that is capable of routing any of its inputs to one or more of its outputs. A total of 128 connection points are provided (64 inputs and 64 outputs), and all of the routing configuration can be carried out using a desktop software application.
A benefit of the routing being carried out digitally is that it is possible to instantly save and recall different configurations, unlike with a traditional analogue patchbay system. For those who need even more connections, it is possible to combine up to ten Patch units of any model in a single system.
Line-level I/O for all of the system’s channels is provided by 16 DB25 connectors on the rear panel, which are wired to the Tascam standard pinout. Helpfully, the first two input and output channels can also be accessed from the front panel via four XLR/TRS combo sockets, allowing signals to be patched in quickly if needed. There are also 32 channels of assignable phantom power, should users wish to use the device to route microphone tie lines to different preamps, for example.
Connection to a host computer is provided over USB, and the unit is powered by an internal PSU which will accept mains power via a standard IEC inlet. The Patch VT also shares some features that were previously found only in the flagship Patch XT: an Audio Detection feature in the software provides indicators that display the presence of audio signals to assist with troubleshooting, and Sleep/Wake settings that allow the unit to go to sleep after not receiving any commands for a user-defined time period.
We put the original Patch system through its paces in the April 2021 issue of SOS, click here to take a look at our in-depth review.
Pricing & Availability
The Patch VT is available now, priced at $8999.
