We are adding these two attractive tools to our outboard "reviews" section. They are external devices that complement the work of the studio and offer a firm, solid feel. They are two passive volume controllers for our monitors. They maximize resolution and help us manage our monitors. Let's get to it.
Nano Patch+
We'll start with the smaller of the two. A simple, compact desktop device that helps us manage the volume control of our pair of monitors. I would highlight its sturdy metal construction, the precision of the potentiometer and the good finish, which includes non-slip rubber feet on the bottom.
For approximately €77 you get a unit that delivers a clean, refined sound with no interference, putting a large volume knob within reach so you can always keep the sound pressure of your monitors in check. It also has a mute button/switch to silence the signal completely. As for connectivity, it offers two 1/4" TRS outputs and two combo 1/4" TRS + XLR inputs, plus a stereo minijack input.
M-Patch 2
Now for the higher-end version. A more complete alternative that includes a few more features than the previous one. The concept is the same: a passive volume controller for managing our monitors. I especially liked that JBL Professional offers the option of rack-mounting it (2U high), thanks to an adapter that lets it fit in a rack. This option lets you get it off the desk, keep the cabling out of the way (logically, it stays behind the rack) and integrate the device in a cleaner, more professional way. That said, you can just as easily place it on a flat surface if you prefer.
As with its predecessor in this article, the quality finish stands out. A sturdy metal housing and generously sized controls, all large, strong and robust.
But obviously the most interesting thing about the M-Patch 2 is its expanded possibilities compared to the previous unit. As you can see in the photo, its connectivity allows signal input via two combo 1/4" TRS + XLR jacks or via an RCA auxiliary input. Likewise, you can send the signal to two different pairs of monitors thanks to its 4 (2 stereo) XLR outputs.
On the front panel we find a selector (push button) to choose the input source, as well as two buttons to select outputs 1 and/or 2. Next come the MUTE button, the headphone volume knob and the headphone output itself, a stereo 1/4" TRS jack. At the top of the panel are the auxiliary volume and stereo mix volume knobs. Right next to them is a switch to select mono/stereo mode.
Another detail that raises the quality of the device is the LED indicators on all its controls. This gives us a quick visual check of the status of our inputs and monitors.
Conclusions
Depending on your interface and software, you may (or may not) be able to route the signals to control them from your computer (assuming you use one, which by now is a given). But even if you can do it in software, these units give you fast, direct and simple control over input and output signals (especially the M-Patch 2, which can handle several at once). In many situations we need to control the volume quickly, and having to go in and open software is less practical than having a good, solid device in our rack or on our desk.
Besides offering a clean signal, their good finish and reasonable prices make these little beasts attractive tools for quick control of input and output signals.
Want to take them home for free? Enter "El Sorteazo," the ISP Música Magazine Christmas 2018 giveaway. Registration is open.
Specifications
Volume controllers
Nano Patch MSRP: €77
M-Patch 2 MSRP: €127
Manufacturer: JBL Professional
Distributor (Spain and Portugal): Earpro
