DON'T MAKE this CLASSIC pedalboard MISTAKE!

The Rig Doctor talks about the pros/cons of using a programmable MIDI switcher and the best applications for using one. See all recommended parts and materials in the description below!
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RIG DR.'S FAVORITE SWITCHERS:
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Mogami 2524 x/Silent PLUG RIGHT ANGLE
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Mogami 2319 Patch Cables
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RIG DR'S FAVORITE PEDALBOARD MATERIALS:
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3M Dual Lock SJ3550 (for pedal) - amzn.to/2TP1rlu
3M Dual Lock SJ3551 (for base) - amzn.to/2I8a7SG
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#pedalboard #pedalboardswitcher #midipedalboard

[@VertexEffectsInc]

In this episode, we're talking about programmable switchers for pedalboards and the right applications for using a switcher. And, *SPOILER ALERT*, most of us DO NOT need them! I'd love to start a dialogue, as I'm sure we'll be coming back to this topic in future episodes. Please comment with your thoughts below and please subscribe here: kzbin.info

[@simon_patterson]

@@torrentsofnothing2928 better and cheaper to learn how to swap out a pedal switch, in the highly unlikely event that it wears out in one of your pedals.

[@damonshanabarger2604]

Even if your a hobbyist, being able to switch between clean sounds and heavy, if that's your thing, a switcher can be your best tool for the task. I spent countless years trying to get a balance between heavy and light. With a switcher and some compressors and a number of effects pedals this becomes a far less difficult task.

[@arkavagoswami3068]

great content..do u prefer a/b switcher pedals to use as a clean/distortion in a switch n to use delay in the end for solo? can this be cost-effective n easier than pedal switcher, if I worry about only clean/crunch/solo set up?

[@peterwelsh1932]

When is says “Steel String” : does that mean it’s like a Dumble? Is that what those words and/or font implies ?

[@KyleDean66]

I’m a hobbyist. Here’s why a switcher, specifically the GigRig G2, is fantastic for me. First, as someone who buys pedals regularly, I was constantly adding new stuff to my pedal chain and needing to reorder. The G2 allows you to reorder with the touch of a button. I can replace an existing pedal or add a new patch if I have an open loop, press a button, and voila! Second, I found the noise that comes from a pedal chain to be nearly unbearable. If you have one or two pedals, not an issue. But if you have 7, 8, ....15 pedals, big problem. The G2 with power modules eliminates all that noise that comes from your pedal chain. If you are a hobbyist like me, tone is very important and significant noise can be such a disappointment that it becomes a deterrent to practicing. Lastly, with the G2, there’s no such thing as programming. Just select a switch and press the buttons for the patches you want to include with that switch in the order you wish for them to be in your signal chain. It’s fantastic and super easy. No scrolling through menus. I can’t imagine doing without my switcher now. It’s made my whole rig so much simpler and more enjoyable.

[@Stewnat7299]

Yeah i feel he totally ignored the easily programmable ones

[@jamescbender43081]

To me the biggest distinction between one and two is that if you're playing live you need to change sounds QUICKLY and pressing one button is faster than pressing three or four. If you're in the studio, you are tracking a single part at a time and don't need the quick-change that a switcher gives you.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Very true!

[@michaelfitze7894]

As a bedroom guitarist, I have to agree that I don't really need a switcher, but want one anyway. I mostly just want to learn about using midi. I want to get one to learn how to use it. Does that make sense? Probably not, but oh well. I have to spend my money on something!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Boss might be just fine then!

[@truescotsman4103]

I use an es-8 its a lifesaver ive been waiting for something like this for 20 years.

[@52Tele]

Didn't know Christopher Walken also being a pedal enthusiast.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Anmol Karki big time

[@CenterThePendulum]

A good compressor > octave fuzz > delay with maxed repeats > shimmer reverb is my favorite cowbell tone

[@mistertv9930]

“Playing at home is not necessarily a place where I need to step on a button and have six pedals come on instantaneously.” As a hobbyist, I needed to hear that. If you don’t have an audience, you can take all the time you need to switch pedals on and off. Appreciate the reality check!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@JJDon5150]

@MisterTV, Is that the way you're going to practice an actual song though? In most songs, you're never going to stop halfway through to turn on an OD and Reverb or Delay or all of them. Its better to practice the way you're actually going to play IMO.

[@michaelking9465]

Now this is how it’s done. Concise and to the point. Informative. No waffling. Great video. I’m a hobbyist and have been debating getting a switcher for months. I found is video very useful. Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@abteenz]

This is gold, not everyone is this honest on the web. Respect!

[@05jgardner]

If you need flexibility without messing about with presets get a gig rig quartermaster

[@michael_caz_nyc]

Mason is keeping it so Real. Always sharing the knowledge. Enjoying this channel more & more. Peace from NYC brother.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thank you as always!

[@OnfloorAudio]

Might be one of the best and honest videos i've seen on this subject !! Thanks Mason !

[@VertexEffectsInc]

My pleasure!

[@charlesb7831]

Great video, I thought I needed a switcher, I don't run lots of pedals, but I'm a "hobbyist " and don't do gigs or live stuff. Now this allows me to run a rig that I don't have to move around. I run a stereo set up, One amp is an old Carvin X50B with 4x12 cab and a Marshall jcm800 4010 combo. The pedal that worked magic for me was the Earthquaker Swissthings pedal is amazing. What an amazing pedal! Fixed many issues, organized my board better, got rid of phase issues I was having between the 2 amps, can't say enough great things about it. I found I didn't need a switcher after buying this pedal.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

glad you found something that works!

[@leftypicker867]

Personally I just play at home and jam with friends. Still love having a switcher. Being able to recall patches and avoid kicking on and off 3-4 pedals, use midi to switch through pedal banks is perfect. In stomp box mode having simple on off per loop makes it super easy to have everything at your feet. Keeping my signal clean by taking a lot of pedals out of my chain and being able to rearrange my chain without moving pedals is awesome. Simple answer to me is, nobody NEEDS a switcher but if it makes your life easier and you can afford it then go for it.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching

[@larryjeffryes6168]

Excellent video! Organized subject matter, delivered concisely and clearly. The kind of format that squeezes into a YT lineup I am otherwise culling. Great info all around.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Larry Jeffryes Thanks for watching Larry! I hope we earned your subscription

[@barberelectronics5672]

Big improvement in your channel format and video opening, great job!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

We had to hire a real voice actor! Lol!

[@barberelectronics5672]

Totally worth it!

[@enkiea8322]

I'm a home player but I still like having my Octoswitch. It's an 8 loop analog switcher with an optional buffer and I have it set up for 8 "core" tones. With just one click of a footswitch I can get to my dry clean tone, to a lead tone with boost/fuzz/delay back to a wet clean tone etc. Before that would have facilitated stomping on several pedals. Then after the analog loop switcher I have the more creative, "out there" type effects that I apply over those "core" tones. It works really nicely and it's still easy to adjustment the pedal's knobs as well as change pedal order with the Octaswitch's dipswitches.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Enki Ea ceremony can’t contest a preference, but functionally my argument was that you don’t benefit from that set up. I too followed the switcher down the primrose path!

[@dustinmbox]

Honestly my switcher has become incredibly integral to my rig. I wish my board could be smaller and lighter and sometimes I wish it was simpler, but I just can't sacrifice the functionality of it. Because of the switcher I can use my board for the occasional session on bass, or acoustic guitar, when I'm doing rhythm and lead vocals, or lead guitar. Also with the boss manual mode I can just have a single patch for the starting setting for the song that pulls up the BPM and the midi patches for verb and delay and then enjoy the classic tap dance mode or just go spontaneous if I'm feeling something different in the song. The switch allows me to have a more compact design where my neanderthal feet don't have to reach all the different pedals.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Dustin Box Thank you for sharing this perspective

[@tricko2286]

You’re telling people who own a bunch of unnecessary pedals that they don’t need an unnecessary switcher? Good luck with that. 😊

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hahaha - true

[@revskull]

You don’t have to be a total piece of shit, just because you feel safe and secure from your side of your smartphone. Let people have their fun, duckweed.

[@multardthegreat4561]

​@@revskullsettle down litte fella. 😆 What are you gonna do about it anyway? Nothing. Nothing at all. Sit down

[@multardthegreat4561]

​@@revskullthis os why your head eats its hair

[@revskull]

@@multardthegreat4561 this is why your mom fingers your hole while you play video games. again, so brave..

[@FrozenCharlottes]

Great video (as always). And that intro with Walken...I was dying!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Frozen Charlottes hahahaha!

[@marketzero]

I'm glad I watched this, the switcher is something I keep asking myself if it would make sense but as a recording artist / hobbiest that never plays live I feel like just a solid board makes the most sense

[@vinivola]

Got that C Walken going on in the intro Awesome. Thank you for doing what you do.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes sir! Thanks for watching and be sure to subscribe!

[@rl2905]

For me it's all about removing the tap dance act. The MIDI functionality is a nice perk, but there are instances where I need to change from a chorused clean, to a non-chorused, overdrive lead (which is done by changing the amp channel, not a pedal) with delay and reverb. That would require switching the chorus off, changing the amp channel, switching the delay on, switching the reverb on. That's a 4 pedal stomp routine that is simplified by just pressing one button....couple that with the fact my switcher has a buffer and takes unused pedals out of the path, it's just so worth it. Having the MIDI on there to change settings on my Strymons is an awesome feature that I use too, but really I'm sold by no longer having to press 5 pedals at once to change a tone setting.

[@mattwalder1931]

I find the flip flop function on the gigrig quatermaster to be an absolute life saver, just one click to switch from one drive to another , and have mod/delays in the standard on/off setting. Works a treat for me

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Matt Walder That’s a cool feature to have for sure! I’m not discounting the benefits, but here I was hoping to shed some light on best practices, and practical applications for the broadest group possible

[@keithladdbass4717]

I think you make great points. I recently had researched switchers and landed on the boss MS-3. You can’t rearrange your 3 loops(although you can rearrange the internal effects) but with the added effects in the MS-3 it really opens up a TON of possibilities while also being able to take pedals out of the loop, etc. And it’s also smaller than some of the other comparable loopers.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Be sure to see our video on this exact product, we made a really cool rig with it

[@goswo]

You are always so very inspiring, and even though I dont know you, its pretty clear to me that you are a great honest down to earth guy.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching and the kind words!

[@bertrandmajorik6589]

BASS player here, YOUR THE MAN !!!!! What a filling video, WOW!!! I always limit my FX's but i had an 'octaver fever ' recently.Decided to stop at three radically different sounds. Live quick switch, is crutial. You tought me a great tool, thank you very much.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching! I hope we earned you as a subscriber

[@bertrandmajorik6589]

You got the goods, man ;)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@bertrandmajorik6589 thanks again!!!

[@mattg9169]

I am all 3. Hobbyist, session & studio player and sometime live player. After seeing this video, you convinced me that I probably don’t need a switcher. Although when playing live, it would be cool to click one button and have 5 pedals come on for that one tone I need for that one song, I would rather dial things in as I need them. Always good content Mason and you are tackling the questions that not many think about but all need addressing.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Matt Gardner Thanks as always Matt!

[@sibilino4]

hey Mason, THANKS for being that clear, precise and humble :) super great info

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Carlos Subia Narvaez My pleasure!

[@78tag]

The Helix with its 4 effects loops and multiple I/O's is all the versatility I need. Many of the multi-effects boards have a world of great effects but these features are why I went with it in the first place.

[@neilmakesmusic6805]

I'm using a Disaster Area DPC-8EZ on my board. I love it because it lets me program if I need to but also has the ability to just turn on and off individual pedals. Definitely gives some flexibility to change stuff on the fly.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Sweet! Thanks for sharing!

[@benhoward7006]

Best honest answer on a topic like this that I have ever heard. Thanks.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dwmilo]

I bought the GigRig G2 and it's so easy to quickly program on the fly, no menus. What also sold me is that you can change the order of any loop. If I want my fuzz loop before or after my overdrives I can do that in under 5 sec. It's also really handy if you're playing with single coils and humbuckers because you can change the gain stages for any program. That's just scratching the surface. So for the professional musician I would highly recommend this switcher. Way more versatile than having your pedals in line and it honestly sounds better. The only downside is that it's expensive.

[@BurntMcgurnt]

Yes gig rigs are the best!

[@punkmusicmetal]

I'm in a few local bands that play originals and I would say I'm a hobbyist. I use a mix of standalone pedals, an HX Effects and channel switching for my amp all through a Boss ES-5. Being able to control all of those pedals and changes through one pedal is a godsend. No more forgetting to turn on a specific pedal or accidently turning one on. No more tap dance. Especially since we have like 20+ songs between us, having all of those sounds on one tap has made my life so much easier. For on the fly changes, I have 5 go to sounds I know will work in most contexts and have that as a separate bank on my switcher. If there's a specific sound i wanna find, i can always take mental notes and create something for next practice or during a smoke break. Thankfully I'm not recording professionally (yet?? :D) so I don't have to worry too much about changing on the fly when money/studio time is an issue.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

👍👍👍

[@s10belowu]

As a hobbyist I like the Walrus Audio Transit 4 that I modified and split the 4 loops to 2&2. 2 loops in front of the amp and 2 in the fx loop. In front of the amp is a wah loop and od/dist and the fx loop are Modulation and a delay/reverb loop. Really basic setup and true bypass to pull out a whole line of pedals that don't need to be in there. I can swap pedals all over the place on the board and keep them in the category. just turn on the pedals you want on ahead of time in each loop and switch in and out of each effect type with the switcher. You could buy 2 separate basic loop switchers and put one in front and in the fx loop if you cant mod them. Thats parts of the fun for me though I hope this comment helped.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Certainly from a functional standpoint that can be cool undoubtedly

[@thesphericalguy9018]

Also regarding the Bradshaw rigs: There where no Strymons or compact Eventide units back then. Racks where the only way to get the schmo happening.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Undoubtedly!

[@mostyncole]

I use a gigrig quartermaster. Switchers also reduce tap dancing in order to turn on/off pedals at the back of the board. They also reduce wear and tear on the pedals switchs as the switcher is used instead. A switcher provides the shortest signal path. A switcher can make it easier to place pedals anywhere on the board reducing the need for pedals to be next to each other in order of signal. Using a switcher requires all the pedals to be on, therefore more lights, which looks cooler...just saying..

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Mostyn I’m not discounting any of that, in fact I mentioned many of those points with in the video, however if were speaking generally about practicality, ease-of-use, budget, and overall best practices have in the ability to swap order, and tap dance for a hobbyist playing in their own home it’s not necessarily a problematic. Again, live performances where the benefits really come in, in my view. All else being equal, if you have quality true bypass pedals with a great input and output buffer, from a sonic standpoint, you’re not at any disadvantage comparatively to the true bypass series looper. There are advantages to reducing wear and tear on your devices, however one thing that people forget about is you’re also doubling the number of connections because you need twice the number of cables in order to accommodate a switcher, which is more moving parts, which also increases the probability of a failure. All in all - it comes down to a preference thing - I think that we can all find benefits and drawbacks of each system, it just depends on what your needs are.

[@mostyncole]

@@VertexEffectsInc Fair enough. Btw, I find your pedal board builds very inspiring, thanks for the quality videos and all the links pasted in the info too. I plan to rebuild my board using some of your tips.

[@LewisDavieMusic]

Hi, session musician here. I use a switcher for my gigs, but you're right that making sounds on the fly poses a challenge. I've found that the best method is to have a 'jam patch' wherein you can turn individual effects on and off manually, or with the Boss MS-3, have some of the switches programmed to effects you don't otherwise have. That way you're sorted in the moment and can worry about programming later.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Well said!

[@peevee605]

I am utility guy, always singing a lot of backing vocals, doubling on keyboards and rythm and lead guitars. Switching system was a life saver because all of the tap-dancing on the pedal drove me nuts. And it made me play better because I can focus on the playing and have my sounds without stepping on pedals.

[@dubnessIII]

Good advice. I play live a handful of times a year, but by no means does it warrant me having a multi effect switcher. However, I do use a true bypass multi switch looper that allows me to turn on up to 4 pedals at once. Really cheap solution for those who want to be able to do that

[@VertexEffectsInc]

👍

[@n3rdg4m3r]

I'm a hobbyist but I would like the Boss ES8 for the MIDI functionality for my DD200, MD500 and switching channels on my Amp from one board. I like the clean layout and I like that in the boss es8 I can easily change the order of the pedals without having to bend over and plug/unplug pedals. Even if I dont gig right now, I like the flexibility of the manual mode and the programming side of the boss es8. Only downside I can see, is it may be option paralysis trying to program the exact tone you want instead of just playing your guitar.

[@thesphericalguy9018]

Agree with many of your points for sure. I thought I needed a programmable switcher but I could never get along with presets really. Now I use a simpler true bypass strip and am happier than ever.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I have seen guys like Tim Pierce take this approach for sessions, that could’ve been worth a mentioned in the video had I remembered.

[@rrojahn]

I did the same thing...I bought a Boss ES-8 and could never figure out how to use it beyond stomp box mode (simple loop switching) so I sold it and bought a Gig Rig QMX-8. Perfect set up!

[@NoBSMusicReviews]

The ES8 has a manual mode that lets you interactively add effects, in any order. I don't see why this wouldn't work for a studio musician. It should make it easier, not harder: put it in manual mode, set up the effects in the order you want, and twiddle whatever knobs you need to.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The main issue was time and having to dial-in things very quickly on the face of the device or the guitar pedal instantaneously. I’m reporting hear what I’m hearing anecdotally from some of the most prolific session musicians that I know. Perhaps there are outliers here, but this is what I know guys are saying in the field.

[@JJDon5150]

@@VertexEffectsInc If that was true, than a multi-effects pedal like a Helix Stomp is going to be just as much of a problem. You still have to go in and potentially change your entire patch, adjust your global volume, menu dive to change stuff, etc. All a switcher really is, is making your pedalboard into a multi-effects unit, except you have access to individual pedals.

[@markedwards7721]

Mason, being an E-Bay junkie, I collected three "short-heads": Mojave Scorpion and Plexi-45, and a Mesa Lonestar. I attached two dedicated 1x12 cabinets to each head, forming three "Mini-stacks". For the Lonestar I used Bogner 1x12s with Mesa C-90 speakers. For the Mojave's I used their 1x12s and Celestion Speakers. Goal: I want my rig to have only two of these three amps. I've got two '52 Hot-Rod Telecasters, a Les Paul Standard, and an SRV Strat. Tones I want to emulate are Led Zep, Tom Petty, and some Stones. I tuned one Telecaster to Open G, the Strat to E-flat, and the others standard. My '52 Hot Rod Telecaster into the Plexi-45 makes Tom Petty tones, while the Scorpion makes "Thunderstruck" brown tone. My effects are a Vox Wah, Sunlion fuzz, KOT, Phase 90, Dimension C, a Bell Epoch Deluxe, and a Strymon Flint. I have Lehle SGoS Dual and D-Loop pedals. The Dual SGoS can be routed for an external loop to the "B" amp, while the "D-Loop" adds a switchable buffer and two additional loops. I midi-linked the Lehle pedals with a stereo cable. The Scorpion is a must-have amp. I'm assigning the Bell Epoch and Flint to the Dual SGoS "B" loop. Comments?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If it sounds good, it is good!

[@peterjessop1878]

I have to say as a gigging musician a switcher is the best thing I have ever bought. As a studio tool I have also found it excellent being able to switch pedal order and incorporate multi effects such as the Eventide H9 more easily within my rig. I don’t find the programming particularly limiting as its always possible to run each loop in stompbox mode. In addition it allows me to decide whether an effect with a buffer is on or off, not the pedal maker.

[@peterjessop1878]

One other point. I can see why some session musicians may not use them purely for speed but if you are interested in sound for creative reasons, in the studio they are essential.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Peter Jessop gigging musician can certainly benefit from the switcher undoubtedly, as outlined in this video

[@novoroshollywood]

I use One Control Crocodile tail loop on one of my pedalboards. Alows me to use presets or individual pedals, very practical. The main benefits switcher provides is, I do not touch the pedals with my foot. In studio this is not a problem, but in live performance it is a big challenge not to turn the knobs while you switching the sound. Put some felt under the knobs, it works but still have to pay attention and I prefer to concentrate on the music not on the technical stuff. Oh and when you get older it is more difficult to dance on one foot 😄.

[@michaelsuydam]

I'm really a hobbyist, but, when COVID's not messing with the world, I'm gigging about once a month in a cover band. That said, I have a switcher and use it to make fast changes and reduce the tap dance. Playing covers, you need a lot of different sounds so I've got some high end modulation, dealy, and modeling pedals that I control with midi and the switcher. I did try using a Helix floor, but felt like it wasn't going to hold up to lots of gigging. I'm currently happy with pedals and board that has velcro so I can change pedals easily. I also like being able to just drop the board on the floor, and plug it into the wall and amp. It makes setup and teardown fast and easy, which is helpful when you also need to deal with the PA and usually help someone else troubleshoot their setup. If I was just playing at home, I'd probably be happy as can be with the Helix floor and headphones.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for sharing! I think there are more than one ways to skin a cat as they say.

[@simonbe]

This is a really helpful video! I am currently asking myself exactly the question you are trying to answer. Short background: I play in a funk-rock band and have some very few live-shows. Still we do have a set of many songs that require different effect setups. Since the beginning I've been playing with a modelling amp that enabled me to have that switching functionality in place. Now, I want to find something like an 'own tone' and switched to a simple tube-amp with many pedals. Generally I think I could use a switcher, as I don't know how to operate 3-4 pedals in the split second between part A and part B. However, I think that maybe something like a single switchable loop could maybe already do the job. I would just also need to switch the channel of the amp at the same time. Do you have suggestions for accomplishing that? Like a switcher with only one or two loops?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Musicomlabs makes some really small ones.

[@jasonhughes5219]

I use 2, an MS3 for front input, and an American Looper 6 channel for the back end FX loop. The MS-3 acts as an awesome boost for the front end. The Looper takes all the tap dancing out of the routine.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Jason Hughes very cool! Thanks for watching!

[@VarunK117]

So for me I think the ES-8 has been a game changer mostly because of the MIDI capability-I've done a lot of varied work from more "traditional" live contexts as well as electronic music and experimental theatre and improvisation. Not only does the switcher make my life easier in terms of containing different "sets" but I'm able to control Ableton via MIDI without taking my hands off the guitar. Depending on the context Ableton is also great for changing patches on the switcher-I have been able to do entire gigs without touching the board since Ableton controls all the patch changes with PC messages . . .

[@SocksworthRiffs]

I remember commenting on the MS-3 video too! I still advocate for that pedal or even a smaller switcher, and I'm a home player (right now). I really like the feeling of being able to bring settings in and out and I'm still an obsessive tweaker. I think I'm rather an exception, not the rule here though. I advocate heavily for them because it makes some things just much easier that I think are essential (stacking gain pedals and flopping between clean/stack gain/clean and wet) and Sure at home no one but me is going to notice the time it takes to switch between these but I feel to me it helps sort of feel less...clunky, more or less! I also have a couple of patches that are basically set up to be sort of "blank test" states. I find myself buying more fuzz and drives than actual delays or reverbs or other modulation effects, so something like the MS-3 specifically is great since I can quickly just pop the pedal in, play around with how it sounds before/after a boost and even on clean/gain channels with a single click. I honestly hadn't really used that till recently but it just sort of fell into place and now I couldn't be happier. love the vids as always!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Socks Thank you for watching and thank you for sharing your insight!

[@pclindholm]

You broke that down so well and with respect to those of us who rock out at bedroom volumes while the wife and kids try to sleep. Right on. I wonder if you have any advice for quick changes in gain stages for a live setting without a big switcher.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Phillip Lindholm You could consider doing the Eric Johnson thing where he would put multiple devices in a single loop with just a single button true bypass A/B looper and then have another side of the looper as the B-side have a second set of devices in it and he used it as a really analog way of doing a switching system. There are lots of diagrams of this online

[@SouthPostAustralia]

Late response, but there are two functions that switchers make really simple, that are much more difficult without using a switcher. I. Paralell effects, and II. Quickly moving the relative position of Fx in the signal path. With a single button push, I can move my Univibe from in Front of the Overdrive to behind it, and with another button push, I can run two different effects in Parallel. Impossible to A/B the difference without a switcher.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Parallel paths, for the most part aren't used for this - I suspect it's a 5% of fewer function and there are loads of pedals that could do this that don't necessitate a switcher. The re-ordering is cool, but again a fringe thing. Most people establish an order and pretty much stick to it if they've vetted their rig out. However, there are some true bypass switchers now that can re-order the loops but don't have programming.

[@fenderjose401]

Hi Mason, proud Vertex Boost owner here. I’ve had a midi switching system for a number years based around an older Musicomlabs EFX MkII and thinking about reconfiguring, but needed some advice. Ever since I put it together, every pedal has always been fed into the switcher and then out to an amp or modeler input. I am now wondering if I should pull certain pedals out of the loops at the beginning (comp or boost) or end of the chain (delays and verbs). I’ve basically relied on the input/output buffers that are included in the switcher but also have seen you talk about the Mesa unit that you favor over the boss switchers. Thanks

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The buffers on the MusicomLab are good. I’d use that and the buffers if possible. If the number of pedals is greater than the number of loops, then you may need to pull some pedals outside the loops which may mean you need to add an output buffer to drive the line back to the amp as effectively as it was via the switcher. Something like a Suhr Buffer would work for this and give you an option for an isolated output.

[@RobCmusic]

I use a compact loop switcher in a pretty simple, practical way. Rather than trying to combine all my effects (I only have 4 presets at my feet), I just use it to switch my different levels of gain from clean to lead and then other effects like pre-drive modulation & post drive delay etc. separately.

[@michaelarthurmusic307]

I use my RJM PBC10 programmable loop switcher in the studio as only a loop switcher (not programming sets of loops as presets). This helps with guitar tone because you can run your signal only through the pedals you require at the time. No programming required. I also gain a buffer, ground loop to the second amp if needed, parallel FX processing, tuner...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Michael Arthur Music No doubt, that’s the Rolls-Royce of switching systems!

[@stephengabree]

I recently incorporated a PXL Pro switcher into my rig. I have programmed 2 banks of 4 presets that correspond to 2 banks of 4 presets on a Vox Tonelab. These account for most of sounds I need for any given show. To change things up quickly I put the amp on standby and enter program mode which turns all loops on, then I quickly shut off everything I don't want on and then turn standby off and I'm ready to rock. 20 seconds tops and I'm in manual mode for on the fly spontaneous jams. 🎸

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for sharing!

[@NelsonJeanGaasch]

Nice video! I don't play live, but often jam with friends at home, hence we play random songs and sound must be able to change a lot between songs. I always wanted to get a switcher, on the one hand to bypass the all the buffers that I have in my chain, on the other hand to be able to switch a few pedals in one click. I never got myself one because the programming seemed slower than just switching pedals in a context where we always play random songs, yesterday I found out about the Carl Martin Octa-Switch, and I really liked that all the programming is done with small physical switches. So I ordered one, the objective being to have 5 positions preprogramed with sounds I use very often , 2 positions available for dynamic programming (putting the switches in place to enable those specific 5 pedals takes ten seconds), and the last position as "all in" - thus as it is now. The downside of this board is that there is no midi, but I don't plan to use it as I just wanted to keep it simple! Will try to make a vid with the setup once I get it.

[@danielhunsinger8017]

I think a switcher is essential to anyone who has more than a few pedals. There are songs you would want to have chorus delay and Reverb ON with you clean channel. Then you want to use your Drive channel, remove the Chorus and Reverb but leave on the delay. One press on the switcher will setup your clean channel and one other press to a different switch will setup your drive sound. This is something I do a lot. Then with the switcher , you can bring in and out different things with just 1 press. Once you have a switcher, I can't see anyway to go back to pedal dancing. It's the one reason I kept going to Multi effects units many years ago before the ES-5 and ES-8 came out. This was a dream to me as all I wanted to do was play clean with Chorus Delay and Reverb and then switch to my drive channel with just delay. Trying to switch your amps channel and turn off the reverb and chorus sucked. Now I don't think about it, I program my switcher and away I go.

[@enuxs]

After using Engl tube amps with Fractal Audio multi effects for years, I never thought, I would go back to pedals again. Of course, I had some pedals at home, but I just used them to play them from time to time. There are a lot of younger guys with a Kemper, Fractal, Quad Cortex, Helix, ... who do not understand the basics of the signal chain, since they never used pedals or maybe just two or three when the whole rig was just one mess. I bought an Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808HW - just for fun - and I found it awesome. I thought, I will build a very small pedalboard just for playing at home. After trying the Big Sky, I wanted a serious pedalboard and ordered the other two big Strymons and wow. As I always had not the simplest signal chain (two tube heads, stereo presets), it was clear for me to get a switcher - a much bigger pedalboard is on the way. Thank you Mason Marangella also to you for inspiring me with your great videos to go this way - it is pure joy to get in all the details and hear the stunning results. ❤ from Germany Andreas

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching and your support!

[@oneoftheonez3757]

You made a lot of sense especially for a bedroom rocker so thanks for that advice

[@VertexEffectsInc]

One Oftheonez Glad you like the video!

[@goingbananas]

Hi! I hope you can help me with this question the thing is that i want to use a smal switcher where i can use it to change between the two channels on my amp. The thing im after is that im using a Compressor on the clean channel and a overdrive on the overdrive channel. and i want them om when i use the different channels. And of course i would like to get the chorus on the clean channel only. My delay is almost always one on both channels and my volume/Wah when i use it into my both channels och an tuner. thats about it. Signal chain right now GUITAR into TUNER -> VOLUME/WAH -> COMPRESSOR -> OVERDRIVE -> CHORUS -> DELAY into AMP

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Most of them including the Boss ES-5 can do this. Change amp functions, Midi functions, and pedal presets at the same time.

[@BillonBass]

I was the touring bassist for the Motown group The Miracles and most of my playing now is live touring gigs with some studio work. I’m thinking of using a switcher on my ampless bass rig, but where do I put my empress buffer? I have it as my first pedal in the chain but what happens when I add the switcher pedal? I may set up some different tones but I mainly just want all my switches on one level and to be able to keep a good clean tone when not using the effects going just through my Empress compressor to theDI. I have an Ampeg SCR DI going out to the board which I believe does have an output buffer. Thanks!

[@Ufozoo1]

As a hobby player I found the Boss line selector to be awesome for looping certain pedals but now that I saw this switcher pedal I may have get one. It’s like building your own custom processor. That’s kinda of cool. One pedal at a time but wouldn’t hurt to a have switcher available to the gig bag even though I don’t gig:D

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I think anything can be useful, however many players just get switchers because they heard they need one - this video was to help put switchers in context and that they aren't needed for most players.

[@Ufozoo1]

@@VertexEffectsInc as a hobby I like tinker no with sound just as much as playing I know I don’t this but I also don’t need another expensive guitar but I’m a music geek with a good job so..... lol

[@stringme163]

Thanks for this man. I learn something from you again as an amateur.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Genell Omboy glad it helped!

[@jjcaine5225]

Just got the RJM too. Looking forward to seeing your pedalboard build.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

JJ Caine Me too! I’m still figuring out the pedals but I will get there

[@joelevine4635]

I purchased a non-programmable switcher for a few reasons.. one is and if I'm correct when I take any pedal out of the loop it somewhat becomes a direct connection between the guitar and the amp. Second is my huge feet tend to hit the knobs when I'm engaging the pedal and therefore tones are being altered as well. Nothing I hate more than hitting my overdrive the next time to only find out my boat feet turning up the volume knob on the pedal and suddenly I'm pissing off the sound man. Could use tape or other means to lock in pedal setting but I always find I have to tweak a little from room to room. Also, it makes engaging some of the pedals at the back of my board much easier to engage as all I have to do is engage the loop and not have to step over other pedals to get there. My board isn't complicated by any means and the non-programmable switcher I use works for me. It's all personal preference of what you use and how you use it. Do your thang!

[@Dokkensound]

Same here, just a Looper so I can avoid reaching my big feet for the rest of the board. Another plus is if a patch cable or pedal goes down I can remove just that one from the signal path.

[@joelevine4635]

@@Dokkensound yes, exactly. I've come across that situation before with patch cables going bad and just stay away from engaging that loop,and the show goes on! ✌🏻

[@benediktschlereth6070]

Great issue Mason! I totally agree with you! I'm playing like 40-50 gigs a year with my original stuff rock band. I got a switcher like a year ago and got rid of it cause of the exact reasons you pointed out. Just too stiff and not flexible enough for what I'm actually doing! Keep up your awesome work! All the best from Germany Bene

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@pewsician2388]

What’s your opinion on a hobbyist having a non programmable switcher just for the short signal path and having all the buttons in line for ease of use?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No criticism of that

[@telebiopic]

Very honest. You helped me dissuade myself from buying a boss switcher 👍😅

[@VertexEffectsInc]

What are you going for instead?

[@metallicblood]

A beautifully detailed video. Great content!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad you liked it!

[@musicmann1967]

I'm a hobbyist, and I'm going to add a simple loop switcher to my board. No midi,, just isolated loops for the cleanest signal path.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Larry Lachmann perfect! Thanks for watching!

[@nurk_barry]

I’m building a rig that allows me to switch on multiple combinations of analog pedals with one click to go from heavy/dirty sounds to clean modulated delay sounds…and I’m not currently gigging, but my goal is to build a rig like Tim Mahoney’s of 311. Great advice though, you’re absolutely right about the necessity of one for the applications you listed. Love this channel!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Nick!!!

[@wulf67]

The pedalboard tap dance is an important aspect of the performance art, and stomping multiple boxes between the downbeats helps you keep syncopated time and can help introduce you to complex afro-caribbean polyrhythms.

[@nurk_barry]

@@wulf67 haha touché

[@kevinberthoud9347]

Great insight and commentary. I own 3 pedal boards primarily because I cant seem to figure out how to create a one size fits al styles of music I play. 2 of the boards just have non midi, non programmable loopers (keep as few pedal in the signal chain as possible). Both of these boards are relatively small. My big board (usually more than 16 pedals, currently at 19) I have a programmable switcher that allows pedal reordering and stomp box mode, which help to mitigate some of the issues you raise (and I agree with). For me the goal of the fancy switcher is to create new sounds and be able to recall them quickly (my songs / my band). That said when I am playing in church, or in a club as a sideman smaller (simpler) boards to your point are more than enough, a programmable switcher is just over kill, as I can get all the sounds I want which seems good enough for live performance. P.S. --> Still totally loving my vertex BOOST. Hands down absolutely the best volume pedal I have used. Thanks again for the content. Stay safe best regards to you and your team.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching! So glad you dig the Boost!

[@megamania501]

Just because someone is a hobbyist player doesn't mean that they have the ability to switch several pedals on and off at once. That's where a switcher comes in. And many, many hobbyist players out there play with several pedals in different configurations, which is why switchers are on the market, because manufacturers know that hobbyist players are part of their target consumers. To lump all hobbyist players into a category that never needs a switcher to do what their pedalboards want is a false generalization.

[@miguelaraujo8526]

Hi. Thanks for the video. Maybe you can help me with a few questions. I'm a guitar player and singer in a portuguese band. As i sing and play at the same time it's very uncomfortable to be tapdancing. Some years ago i bought a Mooer L6 switcher. For the price i can't really complaint about it (the main problem is this kind of delay when you press the buttons, the sound kind of fades in). I've been using it to control my modulation pedals live, but i want to be able to control all pedals (dis, drive, boost, etc). This happens because i use my modulation in the fx loop of the amp and the other pedals in the front inside of the BOSS NS2 loop. My question is if using the boss es 8 four cable method feature i can route the pedals i want to the front and to the fx loop "separating" them but still using in the same loop system. Other thing i would like to know is how the boss NS2 loop would work in a foot switcher, i mean how can i still be using the noise surpressor loop or how can i use it still using a switcher. As i'm thinking of switching to another switcher, i would like to ask some of good choices for me besides the ES-8. What exact foot switchers can i use to route pedals to the fx loop and to the front of the pedal. Thank you.

[@andrewswiftmusic]

Hey Mason, would love to see your approach for integrating the Eventide H9 (or multiple H9s) on a board. I've found program change a drag with the onboard switches (sacrifices tap tempo). The Ox9 can help but is still a bit clumsy.

[@stevelark9840]

I have quite a few vintage pedals, with less than perfect buffering. I use a non programmable looper to make these older technology dinosaurs true bypass. Also, some of these pedals are quite valuable and the looper cuts down on the wear on physically stomping on them.

[@danielhoskins4690]

Yup, also, if one of them craps out you can switch the loop off and finish the song/set without rummaging around on the stagein the dark for 5 minutes.

[@SebastianS72]

No, I think you brought it to the point, and your video still made me understand more about the usecase switcher.

[@settleformetal3763]

I'm in the process of using several ABY boxes I acquired for cheap as a makeshift channel switcher. I have my pedals setup in such a way that I can activate my FX loop (delay, reverb, etc) with an aby box, a clean boost or heavy distortion with another and an aby to mix it all back together right at the beginning to my noise suppressor. I don't suppose its a common method, but I don't see why it wouldn't work as well as a 2 pedal switcher..

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Sorta the "Eric Johnson" approach.

[@rockstarjonnyD]

Hi There! Im convinced that a switcher changes my tone. I have a one Control 4 channel switcher, to bring different overdrives in and out, The main issue I have is that My Xotic SL Drive sounds super muddy and sounds like its actually breaking up at high gain. I have EBS gold Plated Cabling and a reasonble powersupply and Im using a Fender US Strat. Before I put the switcher in My tone was better and i had no issues with My drives/ SL Drive Breaking up at high gain. Not sure if anyone can shed any light on what I have said, But its super frustrating trying to get my tone to sound right. Any Sound, Constructive input would be incredible! Jonny

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Some of the cheaper switchers can have some impact on the audio path. The higher end stuff like RJM don't impact it at all.

[@patrickedwards2158]

WOW I was just talkin about this with one of my friends you answered all the questions I need to know thank you so much I always watch your episodes 😎👏👍

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Patrick Edwards So glad you found it helpful!

[@billytremoloband7456]

I’ve switched (pardon the pun) to an es8 feb/2018 from having my board wired up in series and to be honest I couldn’t imagine not using a switcher out of pure convenience and time saving! I did use a gigrig qmx6 for a few weeks after Christmas as one of the es8 outputs was on the fritz but once I got hold of an analog delay with midi control on it (syncopy by stone deaf UK) I had to get the es8 back on the board for midi presets and cc control. Technically I’m only a hobbiest but my hobby is gigging at the weekend in a (covets) power trio so the option of quick change of tones is a must !

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for sharing this perspective!

[@braxal6983]

Mason your video is excellent. What about this concept of using your board for recording a direct sound and reamping?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Braxal That could be a cool idea for a future video

[@brandonkeane10]

I play for my church almost every Sunday and also do some week long youth camps. It's typically a very pro setup and I have roughly 75 songs that I rotate in/out for sets. Every week is a different set. I think a switcher would be a benefit. I would use a Helix or Kemper Stage but I love pedals and tube amps too much!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for adding this feedback and for watching!

That is my situation. I'm currently using a Fractal which helps a LOT with the almost 100 song playlist. But like you, I love actual pedals too much and I'm coming back to them.

[@jamespowell1175]

Thank you Rhett Shull! I watched his pedal board build y'all did, saved me a lot of headaches on my own build, you're a gifted builder and a great instructor! next time you talk to Rhett, tell him a guitarist, from Vidalia, owes him some beer and a sack of onions! What's your rate for consultation? I'm a gigging musician I need advice on a MIDI switcher for pedals, an Eventide Pitchfactor and switching channles on two EVH 5150lll combos without blowing anything up! :)

[@russellesimonetta3835]

What about, as a hobbyist, just a long box with 5,6 7 switches in line that you can just plug in and turn off and on to reduce the usual tap dancing. Maybe put in a buffer but just leave all pedals on and bring in and out from the control box???

[@chrisplaza1812]

That's what I use... Check out the Brazilian controller "Pedrone Yeti"

[@stevefarrell7632]

I am a hobby is and I bought a RJM PBC6X. I’m so wanting to learn about how to setup a pedalboard using the RJM. I plan to setup a stereo rig. I’m totally new to the midi thing but it can’t be that complicated. Please do a video setting up the RJM . I also would greatly appreciate your thoughts on the Mono Creators pedalboard. I own a Pedaltrain 32” Classic and a 17” Novo boards. I need less than 32” and more than 17”. After researching several brands, I’m liking the 24” Mono Creator brand.I like that it’s one single piece of aluminum making it light and the slots and the cable mgt. accessories kit seem to all work well. Are solder-less connections really undesirable for a hobbyist?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I suggest a GOMC as you can make it any size you want all custom made and more cost effective than most pedalboards of quality. Stay away from solderless - I have a video out about it which you should watch.

[@dsinha99]

Awesome video.. I have a specific question. I’m planning to add an H9 to my board, but I find that I want to put it in a different place in the chain based on what effect I’m using it for. E.g PitchShifter effects before my gain pedals, but Space and timeFactor effects after it. Is there a simple way to switch where the H9 is in the signal chain, without pulling out cables in the middle of a set?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You'll need programmable switcher with a loop matrix.

[@the_hippykiller22]

Thanks for the video, you have convinced me I definitely need a switcher for my live rig. I've been checking the Boss ES5, apparently it can control my EVH 5150III via midi so it's a plus

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Nice!!! Enjoy!!!!

[@koolkat808hawaii]

Help me (us on your channel) how a programmable switcher works with pedals that have knobs. The main clarification I need is this. You set say 4 pedals the way you want them then, with the switcher you make a patch with those settings and save that patch. Then you turn the knobs to make a new patch. Does the programmable switcher record the sound you create with the pedals so after it is programed it doesn't matter where the knobs are on the pedal, the recorded patch comes up? It would be nice for you to show us on your channel exactly how a programmable switcher works with using analog pedals. Just trying to get a basic understanding of programmable switchers aand how they work. Thank you..

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Unless the pedals have MIDI the switcher can only change the on/off state of the pedals, not the knob positions or settings.

[@koolkat808hawaii]

@@VertexEffectsInc That's what I was thinking. I've used a custom Loopmaster with 2 in's & 2 out's and 5 loops for a very, very long time. I know, very old school. If you have time I would like to get your opinion where in the pedal chain would you put a multi effects unit such as the HX Stomp or the M9. Would you put it it front or after the the dist./overdrive/ wah pedals in the chain.. My chain goes like this into the loopmaster Guitar > Buffer > Tuner > Loop 1 Wah pedal, > Loop 2 overdrive type of pedals > Loop 3 > my mutli effects unit with volume pedal > Loop 4 , Modulation effects > Buffer > out to amp. One other thing that it would be great to know, using a wireless system as I do, do you think buffers are still required? f you could find time to answer these questions it would be great. I may not be the only one on your channel wondering about these questions. You really do such a great job of explaining and it's great that you supply the links

[@JeffKeel]

Great topic. I play professionally and I am trying to get my board as small as possible. Touring doesn't happen as much as it use to so. Drives and Hx Effects works great for me. Steel String soon. Great stuff Mason. This is perfect for all of us.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

JT Keel I think that’s a great solution, and looking forward to seeing your rig with the steel string!

[@davidfilms9957]

Love the video! And I have a Boss Es-8 and it has a manual switch mode which lets me tap in pedals in and out like I would a normal switcher-less board for when I need to make a last minute change.

[@mattgilbert7347]

What sort of board do you use? I have an ES-8 but in order to use it effectively, I think I'd need to upgrade my platform. I'm used to the Voodoo Lab PX-8, which is slim, doesn't take up much space (just one rail, with space to spare at the input stage). I've got it on an old Pedaltrain PT-2.

[@davidfilms9957]

I use a flat board - where I have access to every pedal. Where I can use presets but I can also switch to manual mode on the fly and make quick adjustments

[@jacobpardee]

I think what makes my MS3 work well is to save blank patches that when you switch to manual mode the switches are just for the pedals themselves. So if I want to use my board in the old fashion method I just keep it in manual mode and then it really is just acting as a fancy true bypass switcher. I think from a recording standpoint the MS3 works for me because I have it in manual mode and I only turn on the built-in noise gate within the patch. I’m not using 90% of what it can do at that point but those patches make manual mode feel like an in line traditional set up.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Jacob Pardee It’s a cool piece of equipment, be sure to check out our video on it if you have an already!

[@PedaiseEfeitos]

Great video, Mason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@dominiquefarese8061]

Thanks Rig Doctor ! I bought home the beautiful GigRig 3, and I've no clue how it works. Don't even know where to ask my questions about it...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I suppose The Gig Rig would be a good place to start???

[@MagneticConfinement]

This was helpful. Thanks for posting.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful! Hopefully we earned your sub!

[@richardgutierrez2864]

So I have a “GT PRO rack” that I have never been able to make it sound right no matter what I do. I put it in my closet for many years. I pulled it out because I have a friend that said I need a flat reference speaker to make it sound right. We played through the helix and then a QSC the helix was better but it was still not there yet. Do you have any advice before I give up on this gear.

[@eichpil]

Well, I'm a hobbyst, no gigs nowadays but some recording, and I own a small collection of small pedals. I want to use them if I feel like it. A use a non-programable switcher, from The Gig Rig so it avoids any tone sucking, which I hate, but it is very flexible.

[@Mauitaoist]

I'm a hobbyist I just like the old-school switcher there's like 10 buttons in a row so I can turn the effects on and off without stepping all over them it just brings all the buttons to the front of the board and it makes it easier there aren't any programmable Loops or anything everything's just in series also it's just easier cuz some of the petals are upside down or sideways or in different locations for size and space considerations

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Sure, just a true bypass looper.