Suggestions on a studio video switcher please?

[Barry777]

Hi guys,

I've finally finished putting together my state of the art (as of about 30 years ago) audio/video production setup which is all based around the VHS and/or S-VHS format. Basically, I have several top-end professional VHS machines synchronized to 16 track digital audio. Now I want to get a decent video switcher with the ability to fade from one signal to another, etc. I don't need all the super-advanced features, just want to make my productions look somewhat professional. I've been looking at some Grass Valley and Sony units, but confess I don't know anything about switchers and want to make sure it will work with my system. Here is the equipment I'm using:

(3) JVC BR-S822U (SVHS/VHS VCR)
(2) JVC BR-S800U (SVHS/VHS VCR)
(2) JVC BR-S500U (SVHS/VHS VCR)
(1) JVC RM-G800U (Editing controller for the BR-S800's and S500's)
(1) JVC RM-G860U (Editing controller for the BR-S822's)
(2) Alesis ADAT XT (8 track digital audio recorders)
(1) Alesis BRC (Master remote and time code translater for the ADAT's)
(4) SMPTE Time Code Generator/Readers
(6) Time Code Generator/Readers built into the VCR's

I'll be working primarily with Drop Frame format; the system doesn't seem to want to synchronize using any other frame rate. Since I'm processing the audio separately, the switcher doesn't absolutely have to have audio capability. Needless to say, access to the user manual is a must.

Any pointers, suggestions, compatibility issues, any advice at all on a suitable video switcher (especially if you have one for sale) will be tremendously appreciated. Thanks in advance!