I'm looking to break out six DB25 (TASCAM format) connections into 48 analog (TRS) channels. The run distance is quite short - literally 1U - so the cables could be as short at 6".

I am absolutely stunned by the cost of these snakes available on the market. You can find new (although questionable quality) TRS snakes for ~$20 USD. But when you stick a DB25 assembly on one end all the sudden its a $100+ cable? What gives?

I'm trying to do a cost-benefit analysis of if its worth it to make these snakes myself or just bite the bullet and take out my wallet. If I were to charge my hourly rate, it would actually cost more to spend the time making them than just buying. But of course, I'm not really losing that time unless I turn down other work. I'm also considering the fact that a professional assembly (ProCo, for example), will have a lower chance of cold joints or flaky connections. Plus I could just return it if that's the case.

My gut tells me to just buy 'em, but man, it does not feel good.

Any thoughts from the community? Have a nice weekend, y'all.