Entertainment Center: TVs, Stereos, VCRs and DVDs - Generic versus Leviton splitter?

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View Full Version : Generic versus Leviton splitter?

GaetanoL

11-16-07, 02:29 PM

I am about to purchase a 1X8 splitter for my cable TV. I have a Leviton Structured Media Panel, so I was going to by the Leviton model made for my panel. I think the angle of the splitter will make it easier to make my connections. Here's the splitter:

http://www.smarthomeusa.com/Shop/Structured-Wire/Leviton-Structured/leviton-Video-Amplifiers-Splitters/Item/47690-8C/

But the price of the Leviton is more than 4X the price of a generic 1X8 splitter:

http://www.mcminone.com/product.asp?product_id=33-2915&catalog_name=MCMProducts

I don't mind paying the extra money if it is a better splitter.

Any opinions are appreciated.

HotinOKC

11-16-07, 02:36 PM

I thought only Leviton splitters work (fit) in their panels? :confused:

The one's from your second link look.....cheap IMO.

core

11-16-07, 02:44 PM

They do look cheap, and for the small price difference we're talking (<$20) I wouldn't buy anything which doesn't at least list its specs out in the open.

An 8 split is going to cause a hefty amount of loss no matter what; For the handful of dollars I wouldn't mess with low quality stuff.

Rick Johnston

11-17-07, 03:09 AM

I'd stay with the Leviton. It will make a nice clean installation and easy servicing. Pick up the 48210-VA amplifier while you're at it. The splitter loss is 10dB or so at digital cable freqs, which will probably affect the signal quality.

GaetanoL

11-17-07, 03:23 AM

Thanks for all replies. I will go with the Leviton.

furd

11-17-07, 12:32 PM

I buy from MCM on a fairly regular basis. While I did had a problem with a wireless keyboard I find that most of what they sell IS high quality merchandise.

In fact, right now I am using a cable splitter, right-angle "F" connector adapters and "F" compression connectors that I purchased from MCM. I have also used an RF amplifier from MCM that worked quite well, whereas the Leviton amplifier did not work at all.

Rick Johnston

11-17-07, 01:16 PM

Every manufacturer delivers a bad part every now & then. Generally, though, I've found that sticking with name brands not only decreases the out-of-box failures, but also provides much better customer service if there is a problem.

If a brand-name part costs $10 and a no-name knock-off costs $5, I have to wonder where they skimped.

I do know that we changed suppliers and used cheap RF splitter/taps for one installation (a high school). We had a lot of failures early in the warranty period and wound up replacing all of them.

Integrator97

11-20-07, 11:05 PM

Part of what you're paying for is the bracket to make a nice clean install. The Leviton is probably a better product then the Blonder Toungue, but it's not junk.

I'd do a little research. Typically these modules will fit in other brands enclosures. On the Smarthome sight ChannelVision has some for about 12 bucks. And I would put Channel Vision up against Leviton any time.