according to jeff

This past week, I solved a small problem with the help of a Impact Acoustics™ 3-Play™ High Performance Component Video/Digital Audio Selector.

The Problem: I have three devices capable of outputting component video; however, my Yamaha AV receiver has only two high definition component video inputs. I either had to choose a device to use with less-capable video, or find a way to provide three signals into two inputs.

The Solution: The Impact Acoustics 3-Play selects one of three audio-video signal inputs into a single audio-video signal output. The video inputs are all component video (three cables per input). The audio inputs can be digital optical or the typical two-channel stereo.

Impact Acoustics 3-Play Rear View

This model — which I found available at Amazon.com for much less than the full retail price — does not auto-switch. Some more expensive models would detect a signal on one of the input lines, and automatically switch that signal to the output. This model has a simple 3-button selector on the front panel that works just fine. (A remote control is also provided, but I don’t need yet another remote control to fiddle with.)

I’m currently running two devices through this switch, so I have room to add a third device. (For extra credit, can you guess what my three component video providers are?) So far, it has worked great.

The 3-Play has a sleek, black finish that matches most modern components. If I could improve anything, it would be to make it as wide as a typical AV device, perhaps by putting all of the inputs/output jacks on the same row, instead of using two rows.

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