How do the features and capabilities of your QSC version compare to the Van Alstine ABX Comparator Switchbox? For instance, the Van Alstine ABX supports two sources, two amps and three pairs of speakers either with or without subwoofers. It can also be used to evaluate cables and component parts. The Van Alstine is controlled by a remote and states it has precise volume level matching within 0.1dB.
This is what I got off of AudioCircle:
“For you DBT fans, rejoice! Audio by Van Alstine has just completed our very own ABX test box. Originally, we just wanted something to allow us to compare circuit ideas in house, but as word as got out about it, the requirements have grown and thus so have the capabilities.
The box allows you to connect two preamplifiers, two power amplifiers, three speaker system pairs, and a subwoofer (with both in and out connections). You can mix and match any pair of components and speakers (with or without subwoofers), and control the selections from the supplied remote control.
Output levels can be matched exactly and easily with the use of a simple digital meter reading AC volts. You can either set the level of both systems under test by matching output levels with the meter, or simpler yet, simply adjust to null the differences with the meter.
Then you can use the setup simply to switch preamps, amplifiers, and or speakers and keep track of what you are listening to, or - - - you can enter the test mode.
To do this you would want to set up one component in each signal path that is different. System A might consist of preamp A, power amp A, and Speaker set A for example. Then set up system B as preamp A, power amp B, and Speaker set A. This case would allow comparison of power amps only. Match levels exactly with the meter and you are ready for true DBT time.
Enter the test mode and all the indicator lamps are turned off, the starting point is randomized the dispaly lights up saying "Test 1". Listen away, make notes, and when you want to, press the test button again. This will then switch to Test 2 and the power amp under test will switch to the other power amp, or -- maybe not. This depends upon the random number generator making life difficult for you. Listen again, make notes again, and press test again and switch to Test 3. Repeat for the entire 8 test program session. Each test either switches or does not switch the component you are listening too. At the end of 8 tests, you can keep going, repeating the cycles as long as you want. Or you can then switch out of the test mode and the displays will light up again. Now going through the 8 cycles once more will tell you exactly what you had been listening too.
This allows you to take all of the huge audio sugar pills out of the listening process and provides some interesting and often humbling results.
There are absolutely no active components in the ABX box, nothing to "mask" or "ruin" the system sound. What you have set up is exactly what you are listening too. With identical components in the test chains, you can use the ABX box to listen to interconnects, speaker cables, or even high end fuses too. Even more fun.
The tests can be absolutely stress free. Listen as long as you like to one test sequence yourself. If it takes half a day to really "learn" what a given component sounds like, take that long if you desire. Its just your time.
We think that this really transparent ABX box might be useful to a variety of listeners. Audio clubs, speaker builders, electronic component builders, audio stores, even interested audiophiles. We don't have a price for the unit yet, probably under $2000.
The ABX box even has a computer connection to allow future programming updates and revisions.”
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