My vote is for panel mount. Stability is key, and I don't mind the
exposed hardware.
Mike
--- In motm@yahoogroups.com, "Paul Schreiber" <synth1@a...> wrote:
> a) OK it's settled! Voices grouped ∗vertically∗, with CV on the
bottom. Moe, please mock it up.
>
> b) Looking at the MIDI jack: the thick MOTM panel is causing an
issue. The standard pcb mounted
> MIDI connector assumes a 0.062 thick panel. When the connector is
butted-up to such a panel and
> the DIN cable plugged in, this allows the outer plastic molded
portion not to touch the front
> panel (by about 0.025). The inner metal 'shell' goes all the way
into the connector.
>
> Now, with the 0.125 thick panels, you have to have a large hole cut
that is bigger than the
> outside dimension of the "fattest cable you ever hope to come
across". I measured all my MIDI
> cables, the largest one was about 0.665 outside diameter. This
means a 0.700 min hole to allow
> for 'slop'. Well, I think that is too big as it looks a little
strange with this giant hole where
> you can see the pc board slightly.
>
> So, I'm proposing using a Switchcraft or Neutrik panel-mount DIN.
The Switchcraft one has silver
> (nickel-plated brass) flanges. It's part number 57GB5F. I haven't
looked at the Neutrik, maybe
> they have a black one. This does mean 2 'exposed' black screw heads
along with the flange.
>
> It is about the same labor. The reason is that the pcb mounted one
needed a support bracket and
> PEM threaded stud. The panel mounted one I have to solder wires
(yuck). So far as cost/labor it's
> even.
>
> But, it 100% removes the "my DIN cable won't plug in!" issue, and I
think it will be better
> overall. Opinions?
>
> Paul S.