Non-Clicky Stomp Switches

[insomniac2295]

So, I hate how noisy the click is from turning my 3PDT stomp switches on and off. However, the one on my VT Bass is fairly noiseless and doesn't have that resistance followed by a loud click-sort of like a momentary switch, I suppose. Where can I get my hands on something more like the VT Bass' switch?

[Jared Lash]

The "noisy" stomps are 3PDT switches and are used because they are a simple way to do true bypass. Quieter systems exist (all Iron Ether pedals have a relay based true bypass which is much quieter) but it isn't a matter of just using a different switch - it's a substantial change to the design.

[insomniac2295]

I'm talking about the kind of click you can hear coming from a switch, even if you use the switch when the pedal is off. Not the kind attributed to static build up creating a pop in your signal.

[BruceBass3901]

I know the kind of switches you mean. The switch on my Way Huge Pork Loin is alot less 'clicky' and has a much smoother action. It does still click, but it is much less metallic. Its almost as if the pedal is saying 'Yeah man, I'm on', as opposed to 'I'M F*****G ON!!!' like the others do

[insomniac2295]

Originally Posted by BruceBass3901

I know the kind of switches you mean. The switch on my Way Huge Pork Loin is alot less 'clicky' and has a much smoother action. It does still click, but it is much less metallic. Its almost as if the pedal is saying 'Yeah man, I'm on', as opposed to 'I'M F*****G ON!!!' like the others do

Yes! That's what I'm talking about.

The really loud switches make switching during quiet parts awkward and obnoxious.

[s_mcsleazy]

well behringers vintage bass squeeks

[MonsterBass101]

You could use a relay based bypass system. Its a little more expensive, but It works well. Here is just one example. AMZ True-Bypass Retrofit

[Floyd Eye]

My EBS Multidrive is like this. I do not like it.

[insomniac2295]

So, the only way to get what I'm after is to go with a relay based bypass?

[Jazzdogg]

I've never noticed the mechanical sounds made when depressing pedal switches during a gig - between the amplified sound of my bass and the sounds made by the drummer and other band members, who can hear such things? When I'm not gigging, I couldn't care less about noises they make.

[insomniac2295]

Originally Posted by Jazzdogg

I've never noticed the mechanical sounds made when depressing pedal switches during a gig - between the amplified sound of my bass and the sounds made by the drummer and other band members, who can hear such things? When I'm not gigging, I couldn't care less about noises they make.

It's pretty obvious during quiet parts of songs and/or the set when I need to switch pedals

[MonsterBass101]

Originally Posted by insomniac2295

So, the only way to get what I'm after is to go with a relay based bypass?

Yes. What makes 3PDT Switches so durable is also what makes them so loud.

[insomniac2295]

Originally Posted by MonsterBass101

Yes. What makes 3PDT Switches so durable is also what makes them so loud.

Damn...... Well, thanks anyways!

[MonsterBass101]

No problem. The Relay is really an awesome Idea though. I use it on all of my builds. Everyone who has one loves it.

[Taylor Livingston]

Relays are only necessary if you require true bypass. The switch you like on your VT Bass is actually just a switch-shaped plunger which activates a tactile switch on the PCB. The actual switching is then done with flip flops and JFETs as used in Boss, Ibanez, etc. pedals. Small Bear carries the actuator and tactile switch.