New Digitally Controlled Relay Patchbays

CB Electronics, specialists in studio monitor controllers, digitally controlled analog patchbays, timecode equipment and remotes, has announced the XP-Relay32 / XP-Relay32X and XP-Relay64 digitally controlled relay patchbay. Here's the details in the company's own words...

Since the release of the XP-Relay in 2022, we have had user requests for a larger matrix version of the XP-Relay, we listened to the user requests and feedback and have designed three larger XP-Relay units, the XP-Relay32 / 32X and 64

The XP-Relay32 / 32X and 64 is a state of the art, software-controlled relay patchbay that seamlessly integrates with professional audio setups, offering pristine, relay-based signal routing with zero compromise, a transparent audio path, controlled via the intuitive feature rich XPatch4 APP, extensive connectivity, scalable configurations, and robust reliability without generating heat or requiring a fan. 

Allowing you to do creative things you never would have done with a traditional patchbay. Switch from Tracking to Mixing with one click, A/B up to 4 paths, and so much more!

Uncompromising Signal Path
A patchbay must route audio with absolute transparency, and XP-Relay achieves this through an extensive matrix of high-quality relays, ensuring the signal path remains as pure as a direct cable connection. The relay-based switching system ensures the routing process does not affect the integrity of the signal, making it ideal for demanding studio environments.

Intelligent Software Control for Seamless Connectivity and Control
XP-Relay is configured and managed by the intuitive XPatch4 App available for Windows and macOS. The XPatch4 APP controls up to four XP-Relay or XPatch units via USB, or Ethernet. XPatch4 allows effortless creation and management of complex routing chains, including mults, mono-to-stereo conversions, inserts, signal processors, and AB groups. 

Users can save and recall configurations instantly, enabling real-time adjustments, preset configuration, and storage of routing setups.  Streamlining workflow and ensuring session continuity. By treating hardware audio processors like digital plugins, XP-Relay enables users to drag and drop devices in sophisticated routing chains that can be edited, auditioned, and recalled at any time. Once configured, the last-used routing loads instantly upon power-up, minimising downtime and maximising efficiency. 

Advanced Relay Technology
Utilising telecom-grade relay technology rated for millions of cycles, XP-Relay ensures long-term reliability and ultra-low power consumption. The absence of active electronics in the signal path allows for the transmission of mic-level sources, phantom power, control voltage, digital audio, and MIDI without degradation. Routing changes are confirmed by the soft click of a physical relay, providing immediate feedback.

Versatile I/O and Expandability
The rear panel features DB25 connectors offering 32x32, 32x32 Upgradeable to 64x64, and 64x64 channels of input and output, while the front panel includes 2 XLR/TRS combi jacks inputs, and 2 XLR Outputs for quick auditioning of equipment.

Link up to 4 units together using the DB25's and set up as Send / Returns for larger systems.

Optimised Workflow and Studio Integration
Designed to eliminate the interruptions associated with manual patching, XP-Relay ensures fluid session transitions and uninterrupted creativity. It operates silently and requires no cooling fans, making it a direct replacement for conventional patchbays. 

It integrates effortlessly with large-scale TT patchbay systems by connecting your existing patchbays to one or more of the rear DB25's for a truly versatile scalable solution for professional studios requiring advanced routing capabilities.

XP-Relay redefines the functionality of an analogue patchbay, combining relay-based precision with intuitive software control to deliver a state of the art routing solution for modern studios.

Hardware Features

• XP-Relay32 (64 Point) 32 X 32 (DB25) IN 1U RACK
• XP-Relay32X (64 Point) 32 X 32 (DB25) IN 2U RACK CAN BE EXPANDED TO A XP-RELAY64 AT A LATER DATE
• XP-Relay64 (128 Point) 64 X 64 (DB25) IN 2U RACK
• STRAIGHT WIRE PERFORMANCE, RELAY BASED, ZERO ELECTRONICS IN THE SIGNAL PATH
• SEALED RELAYS MORE RELIABLE THAN OPEN PATCHBAY CONTACTS
• SUITABLE FOR LOW OR HIGH LEVEL SIGNALS - INCLUDING MIC, LINE, CONTROL VOLTAGE, MIDI AND TIMECODE
• PHANTOM PASS THROUGH
• INTEGRATION WITH XPATCH4 CONTROL SOFTWARE
• CAN BE USED STANDALONE TO SELECT FROM 128 SNAPSHOTS
• COMBINE WITH UP TO 4 XP-RELAY OR XPATCH UNITS FOR A LARGER SYSTEM
• CONNECTION VIA USB OR ETHERNET
• 5 PIN DIN MIDI INPUT
• 2 X XLR/TRS COMBI INPUTS AND XLR OUTPUTS ON FRONT PANEL FOR AUDITIONING EQUIPMENT

Highlighted Software Features

• INTELLIGENT ROUTING ALLOWING A/B FUNCTION
• DEDICATED A/B SELECTION WINDOW 
• 40 STORED ROUTINGS
• MATRIX & PATH VIEW
• PATH AUTOMATION - PATH ENABLE / DISABLE AND PATH BYPASS ALL
• GEAR PHOTOS & NOTES
• STREAMDECK SUPPORT 
• DRAG & DROP PLUS DOUBLE CLICK FOR CREATION OF PATHS 
• AUTOMATION OF PATH ENABLE / DISABLE / PATH BYPASS ALL AND PATH STORE.

 

Pricing and Availability:

• XP-Relay32 - £3200 ex VAT
• XP-Relay32X - £3700 ex VAT
• XP-Relay64 - £7000 ex VAT

More information:

• XP-Relay

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• SynthfestUK 24: CB Electronics Recallable Eurorack Patch System 06-Oct-24
• New Range Of Routing Eurorack From CB Electronics 11-Jun-24
• 64x64 Audio Patch Bay Routing System 09-Oct-20
• Computer Control Of Analogue Audio Routings 26-Sep-19