Material Source: Markertek, America’s Broadcast Supply House
By Chuck Cage
I came across Markertek when I was looking to purchase some high-quality XLR connectors for a portable recording rig. They’re target market is TV and radio stations, but they sell to anyone. A friend turned me on to them, and I’ve ordered connectors, wire, and such from them a couple of times with good results. They shipped on time and packaged everything surprisingly well.
I like the fact that they carry a wide range of materials and have pictures of almost all of them available on their website. For example, they don’t just carry a “female XLR connector” — they carry dozens of them, including at least three different Neutrik models.
They’re also a great source for audio wire. I no longer pay big bucks for instrument cables; now I built my own 25-footer out of Canare wire and Neutrik 1/4″ connectors for around $20.
If you’re looking for A/V type stuff — like building your own patch panel or cables — you might want to give them a look.
Markertek: America’s Broadcast Supply House [Corporate Site]
Note: Half the difficulty of any projects is finding the right materials — fasteners, connectors, etc. — so we’re going to share some of our “black book” list with you via these “material source” posts. If you’re willing to share some of your secret shopping locations, drop us a line and we’ll post ‘em.
June 1st, 2007 at 10:07 am
What really makes that site viable is the man’s “Drunken XLR to RCA converter Kung Fu”.
June 1st, 2007 at 10:20 am
Yeah, it’s pretty funny. Maybe that sort of thing appeals to broadcast engineer types.
June 1st, 2007 at 11:26 am
As an AV technician I am always looking for new places for connectors and such. Thanks!