A/B Box to switch channels on AMP

[lchyi]

I'm not familiar at all with how amps or router boxes work but will there be any problem with a simple A/B box to switch channels? Would it induce any popping or buzzing? Also, could I route my dirty effects to one channel and my clean effects to another channel without any problems? Or should I just build a looper?

[d95err]

I assume you are talking about an amp that has separate inputs for each channel. Yes, a simple A/B box will probably be fine.  I suppose there could be ground loops if you put effects between the A/B and each channel, but it's probably not as much of a problem as when using two separate amps.

I'm about to build one to use with my newly built amp, so I can't say for sure. I choose to put separate inputs rather than an automatic channel switch so I could have two separate effect paths, just like you describe.

Let us know what you find out!

[lchyi]

Here's a pic to show what I mean:



Otherwise I was thinking about building an AB looper box so I can put a wah and a eq behind both clean/dirty paths and not run into any ground loop problems.

[lchyi]

BTW, I realize this will be a simple answer, I'm just not really good at this whole electronics thing yet. I'm not really sure if both inputs on an amp are meant to be wired together.

[d95err]

BTW, I realize this will be a simple answer, I'm just not really good at this whole electronics thing yet. I'm not really sure if both inputs on an amp are meant to be wired together.

OK, if I understand you correct, you don't want channel switching. You just want two separate signal paths going into the same channel on the amp?

If that's the case you can build a simple loop box that selects between two different loops. Should be no problem with ground loops, I think.

It would be possible to use a simple A/B box and both inputs on the amp, but then you'd need two cables from your pedalboard to the amp.

[Paul Marossy]

I'm not really sure if both inputs on an amp are meant to be wired together.

In the case of the vintage Twin Reverbs, they are not isolated from eachother - they have a common ground thru the chassis.

Should be no problem with ground loops, I think

Don't count on it. It depends on how the effects are powered. If everything is running on batteries, then you probably won't get any. Wall wart powered effects might give you some problems with hum. 

Anyhow, that's a clever idea that you have. I have a '74 Twin Reverb, and this idea never occurred to me until now.