Help connecting two players to one set of inputs.

[quadjoe]

Hi Guys!

Well, I'm about to take the SACD plunge, and I have a question: Since I have only one set of 5.1 inputs on my receiver, and I currently own a DVD-A player, what is the best way to add a SACD player to my system? I really would like some sort of 5.1 switch as the players will be in a very heavy cabinet and switching interconnects will be a real pain. Do any of you have suggestions or can you relate your personal experiences? Also, keep in mind that I do have a budget ($200 for the player $50 for the switching). I realize that this could become very expensive, but I don't need high-end switching for my mid-fi (although it is very good mid-fi) system unless it can be done reasonably. Thank you all for your advice!

[Rspaight]

I have heard that a set of two three-wire A/V switches (intended for video/audio left/audio right) from Radio Shack does this job very well and transparently for $30. (You'll need two more sets of cables, of course.)

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=15-1952

Ryan

[RetroSmith]

That would certainly work, but you could also simply use 5 "Y" connectors and not have to ever switch anything. The only thing you would have to remember is to turn the component you are not using at the moment OFF.

[BradOlson]

There are piggyback stereo cables that can be bought at your local Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart type of stores as well.

[BGLeduc]

I have read that Y connectors can do funky things with the impedance. Have not tried it myself, but I have used switchers from MCM electronics (similar to RS switchers, but better build quality) and they do work fine.

If you want to spend some coin ($200 and up), there are also switchers from Zektor and Shawn Fogg as well.
BGL

[quadjoe]

Guys, thanks for the suggestions. I think I'll check out the RS switches. I'm tempted to use Y connectors, but I'm afraid I'll forget and turn both units on at the same time. Besides, $30 is probably less than 6 sets of quality Y connectors is likely to cost!