>How would I convert a patchbay to a multiples panel? I guess that's
>easier and cheaper than drilling holes and buying jacks.
Yes, that would be easier than building one from scratch, but the easiest
and most flexible solution would be the MOTM-910 which comes already
assembled and labeled. Check it out.
Anyway, MOTM uses shielded connections and most 1/4" patchbays use switched
jacks. If these connections remain, the redundant connections might create
ground loops.
Ignoring the possiblity of ground loops, most 1/4" patchbays (such as those
made by Re'an and the folks who re-label them) have jacks on both the front
and the back. You don't need that. After adding in the cost of plugs and
cables to use on the back jacks, it might be more expensive than simply
buying a blank 19" rack panel and 24 jacks.
If you want to save yourself work and are willing spend money on something
that is "MOTM quality", ADC offers several different patchbay panel kits
(they come with jacks installed, but they are unconnected) that you could
easily stitch with bus wire to create quality mults.
In selecting an assembled bay, you might want to keep in mind that
Behringer is the Doepfer of audio equipment, and there is nothing more
annoying than a jack that doesn't work when you need it.