Jacks: Enclosed or open?

[DWBH]

I'm in a dilema. Should I buy enclosed or open jacks? What are the pros and cons of each?

[MartyMart]

Open are slightly wider profile - could be an issue? but the Neutric etc versions are VERY
tough and will pretty much last forever ! easier to solder and dont reach out into the enclosure as much.
Closed, smaller profile/longer when wired up but not as rugged IMO, I've used them a few times where space was V tight !

MM.

[Stompin Tom]

As Marty said, the open Switchcraft/neutrick do last forever... I've had the closed ones last a long time, too (I have a well used 80's DOD delay that uses them. Never had any problems)... I like the smaller profile, but one did crack on me once, so I went back to open.

[solarplexus]

I used to like the Boss style ones better, before I got some Neutrik... *hint*

[Barcode80]

i'm one of the oddballs that prefers the marshall style jacks for everything, but for cost sake i go with enclosed long johnny jacks from effects connection.

[Processaurus]

I got a deal on a ton of switchcraft enclosed ones, and have used them for a couple years, never had an issue.  The open Switchrafts have a solid feeling 'chunk' when you plug them in, that feels like quality, the enclosed one's don't feel as ultimately solid in that respect.  The open ones are good in guitars for that reason.

In pedals the enclosed type can be good to lean a vertically oriented circuit board up against, and not worry about stuff shorting out.



I'd use whatever you can get cheapest, and get a bunch if you make lots of pedals/music equipment, it's so nice having extra around when you want to whip something up, or repair something.

[Ben N]

As Marty said, the open Switchcraft/neutrick do last forever...

Well, I did eventually have to retension a couple of original Switchcrafts in a 30 year old Fender amp, but aside from that