dual vs single PSU (sc48)

[Tragic Dog]

ok, my question is simple... what would be the reason for buying the single PSU SC48 versus the dual PSU SC48? and vice-versa.

I would like some pros and cons of each if you guys can.

Thanks for your input.

[albee1952]

The only pro to a single PSU is less money. Everything else about a single PSU is a CON.

[Tragic Dog]

What about a fixed install? is the second PSU really needed? I understand it's a "what if" scenario.

[jeffbabcock]

Albee1952 is talking like an Avid sales rep.......IMHO the dual power supply option is there to create peace of mind for those analog desk users who grew up knowing that it was essential to buy a backup PSU for their console. That is totally true, analog console PSU's are sometimes known to be unreliable.

HOWEVER, the dual PSU in the SC48 I think is not that necessary. For one thing, it is far less complicated than typical analog console PSU's. The odds of the power supply failing are not that likely in context of the whole system, especially if you have it on a high quality UPS. I carry a backup console anyway. I would rather spend the money on a good case, a good quality UPS with voltage regulation, and extra plugins.

Besides, how many other components in your rig have redundant power? Does your system DSP? Do your power amps? Outboard? Playback? Backline gear? Nope.....

In addition, lots of times Dual PSU users either don't bother or don't have the resources to connect the 2 power lines to different power sources. So when something bad happens, both supplies go down anyway.

Buy the dual PSU if it makes you feel better. I'll keep happily running my single PSU version and enjoying the extra plugins gained from the $ saved...... :)

[sunburst79]

Probably better off putting the money saved into a good UPS.

[Tragic Dog]

Originally Posted by sunburst79

Probably better off putting the money saved into a good UPS.

I like this idea. Thanks guys. now I just have to convince the powers that be that the money spent on a console is money well spent

[sunburst79]

Keeping in mind that a UPS will help you out in a power failure but won't do a damn thing if you pop the actual PSU. I'm not sure what the Venue is using but the dual PSU's I have seen (server type) are set up so if one side blows it simply passes the load to the working side. None of this is a replacement for a solid UPS and good line regulation.

[Nicolas Lowman]

Originally Posted by jeffbabcock

IMHO the dual power supply option is there to create peace of mind for those analog desk users who grew up knowing that it was essential to buy a backup PSU for their console.

Gosh Mr. Babcock, being in that group makes me feel old and I ain't even thirty. I am very hard headed and yeah if I was buying a SC48 I would go for the extra PSU. If nothing else it gives you a way to patch one into a ups and directly into an AC source in case the ups were to fail. Maybe I am just paranoid. There are quite a few M7CL and DM2000 desks out with only one PSU and I can't recall of hearing one of those failing. I just like to do everything I can to keep old man Murphy at bay and as an engineer friend of mine said "if one is good, two is better."

Nicolas

[sunburst79]

Originally Posted by Nicolas Lowman

Gosh Mr. Babcock, being in that group makes me feel old and I ain't even thirty. I am very hard headed and yeah if I was buying a SC48 I would go for the extra PSU. If nothing else it gives you a way to patch one into a ups and directly into an AC source in case the ups were to fail. Maybe I am just paranoid. There are quite a few M7CL and DM2000 desks out with only one PSU and I can't recall of hearing one of those failing. I just like to do everything I can to keep old man Murphy at bay and as an engineer friend of mine said "if one is good, two is better."

Nicolas

Murphys got lots of kids out there!

[albee1952]

When talking about PRO engineers, there are two kinds; those that have had a PSU fail on a gig, and those that WILL have a PSU fail on a gig. You may never lay your motorcycle down, but you probably STILL wear a helmet.....