device for switching bypass loops AND inputs

[mdiddium]

I'm wondering if there is a device out there that does what I want it to do for my signal path. Basically, I want to be able to A/B between my bass and my Moog (both running into the same amp). The switch has to be quick because it often occurs within the same song (which is why one button would be great). To this end, a line mixer won't work because my hollowbody bass will feed back if it's not muted while I'm playing Moog.

Also, with the same button, I'd like to not only switch inputs to the Moog, but also to switch effects loops (delay, reverb, distortion, EQ, etc...).

I was looking into the Voodoo Labs GCX/ground control, which my guitar player uses for his multiple effects and is able to set presets for switching several effects with the touch of one button. It seems to work great for that, but doesn't offer an input switcher.

Next, I was looking at some Lehle pedals, but not a single pedal can do what I need. However, their pedals can talk to each other via MIDI. Do I really need two of these super expensive pedals, or is there another solution that someone can enlighten me towards?

[Couvy]

Sounds like what you want is a Sound Sculpture Switchblade

[mdiddium]

Wow, it appears that you are right. I love Talk Bass.

The unfortunate truth is the price. Unless there are other recommendations, I guess I'll have to start saving now!

[scotch]

There are cheaper alternatives as well:

LoopMaster can build you a custom A/B box with any number of effects loops. http://www.loop-master.com/index.php LoopMaster boxes are passive and true bypass. I use an effects loop strip & it's performed perfectly for years!

RoadRage makes similar devices, fully customizable as well. They also have the option of an internal buffer. http://www.roadrageprogear.com/ I really like these switchers as well. Competitive pricing & built like a tank! I have a loop switcher kit from them that I built. Very high-quality!

The Boss LS-2 sort of does what I think you want, but doesn't do them all at the same time.

[mdiddium]

Thanks, scotch. I've perused LoopMaster before. An analog solution might work, I'll just have to really think about how it will be configured with each effects loop corresponding to which input. For example, I'll want delay and distortion on the Moog side, but might want just delay on the bass side. I'll need that flexibility.

But, they have a lot of options available, and the price is doable.

The digital solution seems much more clean and customizable, but I'd pay the price.

[2-Sticks]

I do believe the Rocktron Patchmate Loop 8 can do everything you are looking for. It has 8 loops, switchable active and passive inputs, and can also be used for momentary amplifier switching .

I can't confirm this as I haven't used one myself, but I do know several guitarists that use them to control some rather elabotate rigs.

It might be worth looking into.

[mdiddium]

Thanks. The Rocktron looks like a good device, but it doesn't make it clear whether it can do input switching and effects switching with the hit of one button. It might be able to, but I'm not sure. I'll have to look into it more.

Of course, the only downside to a rack unit is that I'll need to get a MIDI floor controller to talk to it...

[Remsouille]

What you can do is having an A/B and a loop switcher within the same box, with switches close enough to be hit at the same time. That's what I do, and it works perfectly, plus it's really cheap to diy...

[2-Sticks]

Originally Posted by mdiddium

Of course, the only downside to a rack unit is that I'll need to get a MIDI floor controller to talk to it...

I think Rocktron is still producing a floor model of the Patchmate if that is more your style.

As for the active/passive switching, could you not plug your bass into the passive input and run the output from your keys into the return on one of the loops? I would think this should work fine........but then again, I have never actualy used this product.