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[Fowler]

I need a component video switchbox that has a remote control, and the Pelican System Selector Pro (PL-960) seems a solid one to get. It also isn't incredibly expensive like some JVC systems I've seen. But there seems to be a lot of conflicting information on exactly what you get with it. The specs do not mention a remote control at all -- but some of the reader reviews do. They also say it has EIGHT component inputs, when again the specs say three. So, can anyone who actually has one clear this up for me?

Alternately, can anyone else recommend a good component switcher that has a remote control?

Thanks!

 

[human5892]

I think there are two different versions, which is what is causing the confusion. I have one that's branded under the Gamestop name that has only three component inputs and is controlled by switches on the unit, not remote. It was only about $30, though, and works just fine.

Maybe this is the one you're looking at, but the reader reviews are for a different model.

 

[Fowler]

Nah, this one is in the region of $80-90 -- I think the one you're talking about is the Pelican HD Selector or somesuch?

I REALLY need a remote

 

[human5892]

Oh yeah, you're right, it was the HD Selector. My bad.

Well, I've been no help. :lol

 

[Fowler]

Well, you're helping make sure this isn't the single most unsuccessful topic in GAF history, which judging by the views it looked like for a bit

 

[ArcadeStickMonk]

I have a Pelican selecter with eight inputs, most of those probably being component. There is no remote for my version, but it did cost me around $80.

I like it fine, but if I actually had a HD set, I'd drop for an audio authority switcher in a heartbeat. I don't trust the bandwidth on this model.

 

[Minotauro]

There's no remote...it doesn't have any external power supply.

I've been considering buying it nonetheless though. The only thing that holds me back is the price...$80 just seems absurd.

 

[ArcadeStickMonk]

.it doesn't have any external power supply.

Mine does. it plugs into my power strip along with my consoles.

 

[hooo]

Go for the Audio Authority 1154a. It's only $140 from their auth'ed resellers. As long as you don't need to switch between multiple sources that are already transmitting (ie, you're flipping back and forth between a game and the game on tv) it's perfect. Turn something on and that's what you'll be seeing.

 

[BreakyBoy]

I have one.

- 8 Inputs (7 in the back, one easy access in the front)
- All have Component, S-Video, and Composite inputs
- First three in the back also have Ethernet and Optical Audio ports
- No remote control.

 

[Minotauro]

Mine does. it plugs into my power strip along with my consoles.

Seriously? For what though? What feature does yours have that requires power?

Go for the Audio Authority 1154a. It's only $140 from their auth'ed resellers. As long as you don't need to switch between multiple sources that are already transmitting (ie, you're flipping back and forth between a game and the game on tv) it's perfect. Turn something on and that's what you'll be seeing.

The AA 115a sounds nice and all but it only has four inputs. That just isn't enough for my setup. Otherwise, it sounds top notch...I like how you don't have to manually switch anything.

 

[Marty Chinn]

Seriously? For what though? What feature does yours have that requires power?



The AA 115a sounds nice and all but it only has four inputs. That just isn't enough for my setup. Otherwise, it sounds top notch...I like how you don't have to manually switch anything.

How many component devices do you have? Only one input on the TV? No inputs on the receiver?

 

[Minotauro]

How many component devices do you have? Only one input on the TV? No inputs on the receiver?

Well, I have two Xboxes (modded and regular), two PS2s (import and domestic), and a Gamecube (mistake) all of which use component. My TV has three component inputs one of which is taken up by the DVD player. Right now, I have one of my Xboxes plugged in by itself on a component input and then some piece-of-shit Madcatz switchbox for the four other systems plugged into the remaining component input. I have no receiver.

So, it's not like I have to swap them or anything but I'd like to have all the game consoles connected through one switchbox. The AA device would not make this possible.

 

[Marty Chinn]

Well, I have two Xboxes (modded and regular), two PS2s (import and domestic), and a Gamecube (mistake) all of which use component. My TV has three component inputs one of which is taken up by the DVD player. Right now, I have one of my Xboxes plugged in by itself on a component input and then some piece-of-shit Madcatz switchbox for the four other systems plugged into the remaining component input. I have no receiver.

So, it's not like I have to swap them or anything but I'd like to have all the game consoles connected through one switchbox. The AA device would not make this possible.

Ah, gotcha. Not a normal setup so it's understandable. I always think I'm pushing how many devices need something, but couldn't for the life of me figure out why you would need so many. Ever thought of trying to simplify your setup a bit? Two PS2s is sorta redundant(says the person who owns three). Even two Xbox systems seems a bit much but can understand if you're paranoid about Live. In my setup, I have two component inputs on the TV, two on my receiver, and the Audio Authority switch. DVD Player goes directly to the TV. PS2, Xbox and GC all go to the switch box. That leaves me easily one port open on it for an HD Tivo or something, plus I have the optional two on the receiver that I can work with if I need one more device. I also have a DVI slot left open for a HTPC or whatever may need that in the future. I do use a PC hooked up to it but its not hooked up all the time.

Heh with your setup, its sorta too complicated for what it does, but yet not complicated enough to warrent some changes. Like if you had a receiver, you would need to be changing inputs on it as well as the TV anyway, so you could use like a Harmony remote which changes everything for you at the push of a button to simplify things. I can understand wanting to have everything on the same input though. Not sure what your best bet is here. The Pelican I would be worried about signal degredation, especially if you're using anything that's in HD. The AA is probably the cheapest I would go without worrying about signal quality. Maybe go for two of them or something with more inputs. Heh if you don't care about signal quality, then I'm sure the Pelican would work fine. BTW, the power is likely to help prevent signal degredation on the Pelican.

 

[manji]

I have one.

- 8 Inputs (7 in the back, one easy access in the front)
- All have Component, S-Video, and Composite inputs
- First three in the back also have Ethernet and Optical Audio ports
- No remote control.

+1, this is the Pelican System Selector Pro, comes in Black or Silver, anywhere between $79.99 and $99.99.

 

[Warm Machine]

I have the Pelican Selector Pro. Some of the best money I've ever spent. Don't know how good anything above 480p looks through it but the 480p it does do is as good as a direct connection into the TV.

As others have said the thing comes with out a remote.

 

[Minotauro]

Ah, gotcha. Not a normal setup so it's understandable. I always think I'm pushing how many devices need something, but couldn't for the life of me figure out why you would need so many. Ever thought of trying to simplify your setup a bit? Two PS2s is sorta redundant(says the person who owns three). Even two Xbox systems seems a bit much but can understand if you're paranoid about Live.

Well, my primary Xbox (which is modded) has been acting up recently. Plus, having a dedicated modded one makes more sense in that I don't have to constantly change my network settings and manage the different bioses. So, I ended up buying one of the Canadian limited edition crystal consoles. That's why I have two.

As you said, the two PS2s may be redundant though. Actually, right now, one is hooked up in my bedroom so I can watch DVDs.

Also, I'm actually in better shape connection-wise now than I was a few weeks ago. Until recently, I was connecting my hd cable box through component. Now, I have a DVI-to-HDMI cable instead so at least I freed up one component input.

Heh with your setup, its sorta too complicated for what it does, but yet not complicated enough to warrent some changes. Like if you had a receiver, you would need to be changing inputs on it as well as the TV anyway, so you could use like a Harmony remote which changes everything for you at the push of a button to simplify things. I can understand wanting to have everything on the same input though. Not sure what your best bet is here. The Pelican I would be worried about signal degredation, especially if you're using anything that's in HD. The AA is probably the cheapest I would go without worrying about signal quality. Maybe go for two of them or something with more inputs. Heh if you don't care about signal quality, then I'm sure the Pelican would work fine. BTW, the power is likely to help prevent signal degredation on the Pelican.

Yeah, eventually, I'll probably end up getting the Audio Authority box. Every few months, I price them hoping that they're in the double-digit range but the cost seems to be pretty steady. Oh, well, Madcatz it is until then. It really doesn't make sense to spend $80 on something that's ultimately subpar like the Pelican. Either way, thanks for your suggestions.

 

[Marty Chinn]

Well, my primary Xbox (which is modded) has been acting up recently. Plus, having a dedicated modded one makes more sense in that I don't have to constantly change my network settings and manage the different bioses. So, I ended up buying one of the Canadian limited edition crystal consoles. That's why I have two.

As you said, the two PS2s may be redundant though. Actually, right now, one is hooked up in my bedroom so I can watch DVDs.

Also, I'm actually in better shape connection-wise now than I was a few weeks ago. Until recently, I was connecting my hd cable box through component. Now, I have a DVI-to-HDMI cable instead so at least I freed up one component input.

What chip did you use for modding? Sounds like you may have done a soft mod. If so, get a real mod, and then you can just ahve a toggle switch to enable and disable the chip which will take care of bios, network settings, etc with the flip of a switch. What's wrong with your Xbox too? If its just having trouble reading discs, could be a simple drive swap fix. I have three Xbox systems. One of them died which is why I have three now =) I just use the one modded one and keep the debug system in the closet. Pretty much does everything and I can easily switch off the mod to use it as a normal system and Live.

Heh that DVI/HDMI slot is great to have. Good choice by hooking your hd cable box up to it. Ya gotta get a receiver though for 5.1 sound =) When you get that far, trust me, look into a Harmony remote. It'll cost you about $110, but they are so worth every penny. One remote to control them all =)

 

[chief]

does anyone know where i can get this Pelican Selector in Canada. Ive looked at many stores but cant find it. also ive checked many websites like amazon, futureshop and walmart but they either dont have the selector or dont ship to Canada. could someone help me out with a site link or a name of a store that might have it near me. I live in Brantford, Ontario.

 

[Oracle Dragon]

does anyone know where i can get this Pelican Selector in Canada. Ive looked at many stores but cant find it. also ive checked many websites like amazon, futureshop and walmart but they either dont have the selector or dont ship to Canada. could someone help me out with a site link or a name of a store that might have it near me. I live in Brantford, Ontario.

I'm also in Canada (Ottawa), and I never managed to find it. I had to settle for ebay.

 

[chief]

so does that mean its almost impossible to find one in canada? cause i really want one of these.