amplifier footswitch pedals
Switcher pedals can unlock a whole new world of signal flow and controllability in our pedalboards. These utility pedals can become invaluable to complex pedalboard systems when used to their full advantage.
Switcher pedals are utility stompbox units built for guitar, bass and other instruments that essentially direct the signal to a user-defined signal path. A switcher will have one or more inputs and one or more outputs. It works to send the right input to the right output at the right time.
Signal Flow
Audio signal flow is defined as the path the audio signal (whether it’s analog or digital) takes from the source to the output of the system. This path includes any gain stages (preamplifiers and amplifiers) and other units (mixing boards, processors, effects units, etc.)
We can add acoustics into signal flow diagrams if it helps to convey the system as a whole (for example, including a “vocalist” block in front of a “microphone” block).
Audio signals flow out of device outputs and into device inputs. Connecting a device A’s output to another device B’s input will send signal from device A to device B.
Certain audio cables and devices can send audio in two directions at once (think of a headset = headphones + microphone, as an example). Fortunately, we won’t have to worry about this with guitar pedals.
Signals can be routed in many different ways within a single system. Switches, splitters, and clever routing can make this happen.
we can switch our audio output between the computer’s built-in audio output and the output of the audio interface. Audio interfaces will have their own routing scheme we should be aware of.
These designs can be incorporated into power amps and receivers or produced as their own standalone units.
What Is A Switcher Pedal?
A switcher pedal is a stompbox-style unit designed to route input signal(s) to specified outputs. These pedals are typically marketed toward guitarists and bassists for use in their pedalboards but can be used by any musicians looking to switch their available signal flow paths.
A footswitch pedal’s effect on the signal flow from a guitar to an amp cabinet
The letter “Y” symbolizes a single input (at the bottom/vertical line) and two outputs (at the top/diagonal lines). “AB” refers to the two paths the signal can take (A or B).
We can control the volume of output A and B, the phase difference between A and B (0º or 180º), and whether the input is routed to output A, B or both simultaneously.
AB-Y pedals can be used to switch between different amplifiers.
Summing pedals are based on the summing mixers, historically designed to sum stereo audio (left and right channels) into mono audio. They can be used to bring signal path A and signal path B back to the same point within the system, preferably before the amp input (or the amp’s effects loop return).
The summing pedal brings everything back together before the guitar amp input.
Other pedals with multiple outputs are those with stereo outputs (left and right channels) and those with dedicated direct outputs and affected signal outputs.
These pedals technically split the signal into stereo or dry/wet signals, respectively but aren’t really switcher pedals by any means.
Each loop can host any number of pedals. The number of loops depends on the pedal itself.
Some pedals also offer presets, in which each button offers its own preset of engaged and disengaged loops. Let’s have a look at a simple example with one pedal per loop:
Each loop can host any number of pedals. The number of loops depends on the pedal itself.
When switching from one signal path to another, there can be significant tone and level changes. Try to keep these level changes conscious. If you need a boost, then have a boost. If you don’t, try dialling in the pedal to keep a consistent level across signal path changes.
Recommended Amp Footswitch Pedals
Hosa FSC-385 Footswitch
A sturdy, extruded aluminum chassis makes it strong enough to withstand the rigors of the road. Simply connect a 1/4 in TRS cable (sold separately) from the footswitch to the unit you wish to control, and you’re set.
Laney Amplifier Footswitch
Laney Amplification is a British designer and manufacturer of guitar amplifiers, bass guitar amplifiers, cabinets, and public address systems.
VOX VFS5 VT-Series 5-Button Footswitch
By using the optional VFS5 foot switch you can switch programs, turn reverb or other effects on/off, or make speed/tap settings using your foot. This is a great advantage when you’re creating sounds or performing live.
Marshall Footswitch
Replacement Footswitch for Marshall Amps. Two Button. Light-Up LED. 1/4″ Plug. Generic version of Marshall PED802 (P-H875)
Fender 2-Button Footswitch
Restore your contemporary Fender amp’s footswitch functionality with a genuine replacement Fender footswitch.