Electronic mute switch

[David]

I need to hack together a couple of mute switches quick.  It would be a simple matter (even for me) to stick SPST pushbuttons into boxes and wire jacks to them in the appropriate fashion to shunt the input signal to ground when the switch is on.  I think I also need visual indication that muting has been engaged.  We're doing this song for Easter where I'm going to have to bounce between acoustic guitar on the verse (I plan to suspend it in some kind of clamp arrangement connected to a mic stand) and bass on the chorus.  In the interest of noise management, I'd better mute the instrument I'm not using.  Hence the mute switch.

Now for the question.  I think I could make a mute switch by chopping up the tone god's "Wicked Switch" to open a connection to ground.  Would doing this cause problems for the 4066 chip?

[The Chris]

I do exactly what you're doing. I have my acoustic propped up on a 'Gracie' stand.  I searched high and low for a switch like you mention, but eventually just settled on a true bypass effect pedal WITHOUT power.  So, when the effect is ON - you are muted (since there's no power) but when you turn the pedal off, you go through.

However, your (bass in your case) would have to be controlled with it's volume knobs. Basses aren't notorious for feedback issues, so I bet when you stop playing, even if you leave the volume open, you'll be fine.

Now I use a Boss 'AC-2' Acoustic simulator. That wouldn't work for you if you have TWO instruments.

[KarbonHed]

If you can get hold of SPDT footswitches this should work for passive guitars.   The Switch either grounds the signal or the LED, so the LED lights when the signal is ON.

[David]

I breadboarded a solution to this.  Works well.  Will try building it tonight.
Mr. Andrew "Tone God", I freely admit that I borrowed heavily from your SPST / inverter Wicked Switch.  The original circuit is not mine.  The mute switch is simply a tweak.

[The Tone God]

Mr. Andrew "Tone God", I freely admit that I borrowed heavily from your SPST / inverter Wicked Switch.  The original circuit is not mine.  The mute switch is simply a tweak.

Go right ahead. I have no problems with it. I'm always happy to see other ideas.

Andrew

P.S. Not Mr. Andrew. I'm too laid back to be called Mr. Andrew, but it is The Tone God  :lol: