Why using big jacks ?

[Wapata]

Hi !
It's a short question but here it is: why do we use big jacks ?
Is it because the firsts e-drum have ones ? Because of the voltage ?
Of course, a second question is behind this one: why such big cables ?
If I make a drum kit with all cables hidden inside tubing with cable passing thru the mounts, i may be interested by using little cables and little connectors.

Thanks for continuing upgrading the MegaDrum project !!
(and sorry for my english)

[ignotus]

You can use whatever connectors you like. I suppose 1/4 inch jacks are used because it's become a kind of standard that allows you to connect equipment by different brands, though there are exceptions. I have 1/4 jacks in the module but use RCA jacks in pads as I have several mono pads and can easily and cheaply split stereo inputs that way by using 1/4 inch stereo male to 2 mono RCA jack cables. Some people say 1/8 inch jacks are unreliable but I guess that's down to subjective experience as I can't see why that should necessarily be the case. Some people say RJ11 jacks are a good choice - but it's up to you.

You can also use whatever thickness of cable you like, but it's best that they are shielded, i.e. the ground wire is wrapped around the signal wire and doesn't just run parallel to it.

[airflamesred]

As my learned friend above says, tradition and reliability. I wouldn't use the small jacks though, very easy to snap.

[Wapata]

Okay, ribbon cable are out because of the ground / shield. But old audio-stereo-headphonetype cable should be okay as soon as you don't use 1/8 Jack in the ends.

Cinch (rca) connection may be great and easy to integrate into mounts for all the mono-piezo elements. It's compact and work even if not fully engaged.

Thanks both of you !