Making a custom footswitch for 2 x 3 channel Rectifiers

[MesaENGR412]

Hello all,

I am wanting to possibly build (or have someone build) a custom 6x6 footswitch that would basically have all of the functions of a new 3x3 rectifier footswitch,
only, they would all be in a row (like the older 3 channel 5-buttons footswitch) and stacked so that each of the twin buttons can either be stepped on individually or 2 at a time (when running both heads at once). I don't really have the cash to pump out $6-800 for a midi system, and am wondering 1) if this could be done and 2) how much would something like this cost? 3) is there such a thing as a 7 pin DIN "y" cable to split the signal of one footswitch to two heads? Here is a drawing of what I am thinking:

-AJH

 

[screamingdaisy]

3) is there such a thing as a 7 pin DIN "y" cable to split the signal of one footswitch to two heads?

Plug the footswitch into amp "A".

Run a standard instrument cable from the slave out of amp "A" into the effects loop return of amp "B".

Now everything is controlled via the first amp's preamp.

Obviously not idea if your goal is to run two amps with different settings, but if you're looking for a simple/cheap solution to running two amps simultaniously a master/slave setup is an option.

 

[MesaENGR412]

That is an interesting thought, thanks for that. But, I am planning on running both heads with different settings in the preamps, and one will have 6L6's and the other EL34's. I'm just wondering if building a footswitch like this is possible and more feasible than getting the full monty of midi equipment.

-AJH

 

[screamingdaisy]

That is an interesting thought, thanks for that. But, I am planning on running both heads with different settings in the preamps, and one will have 6L6's and the other EL34's. I'm just wondering if building a footswitch like this is possible and more feasible than getting the full monty of midi equipment.

-AJH

It's certainly feasable, and in the grand scheme of things not all that difficult to do. The trick is finding someone who will design it so that it works the way you want...

You should try calling Mesa to see if a Y adaptor will work since it would be the simplest option. You're probably not the first one to think of this idea, so they probably already know the answer.

 

[94Tremoverb]

I'm almost certain that a Y-cord (they don't actually exist for 7-pin DIN, although you could in theory build a splitter box) would not work and might risk damaging the amps. The footswitches are an integral part of the switching logic circuit and it could be potentially risky to connect the two amps together like this.

Also, the LEDs are part of the logic circuit so you will need two sets, not one. But in fact, it's the *switches* that you don't need two sets of! You could use double-pole switches with one half of each switch controlling each amp. This would make it extremely simple to use since the same button would control one or both amps. It's still going to be a lot of work for someone to build though.

 

[MesaENGR412]

hmm, very cool, thanks for that info Trem. Didn't realize the LED's were part of the switching, figured they were just for indication purposes.

-AJH

 

[MesaENGR412]

so..I think I have found an easier alternative that isn't as expensive or elaborate as the GCX or the RJM, and woulud be a lot easier than making or having someone make a custom footswitch. Anyone had any experience with these two products?
http://www.voodoolab.com/controlswitcher.htm
http://www.voodoolab.com/commander.htm

I was thinking of getting two of the Voodoo Labs "Control Switchers" (1 for each head) and link them with the midi-thru and then one "Commander" footswitch to control both boxes. It appears that each would work, since there are 4 operations per box, and 4 external switching jacks on the back of the new Rectos (which is what I will be using these with). Thanks guys.

-AJH

 

[Roadifier]

that control switcher only has a 5 pin din connector... the one reason I didnt buy it for my amps.

 

[MesaENGR412]

that control switcher only has a 5 pin din connector... the one reason I didnt buy it for my amps.

Could it still be set up using the external switching jacks on the back of the Recto and the control switcher box, instead of using the DIN cable? There are only 4 jacks on the back of the new Rectos, and ch1 is default when ch2 or 3 are not selected.

-AJH

 

[Roadifier]

that control switcher only has a 5 pin din connector... the one reason I didnt buy it for my amps.

Could it still be set up using the external switching jacks on the back of the Recto and the control switcher box, instead of using the DIN cable? There are only 4 jacks on the back of the new Rectos, and ch1 is default when ch2 or 3 are not selected.

-AJH

Oh yeah. It'll work with the external switches, but you will need 2 of the switchers, and a good midi pedal. a rocktron midi mate would be a good midi pedal for a pretty cheap price.

 

[MesaENGR412]

that control switcher only has a 5 pin din connector... the one reason I didnt buy it for my amps.

Could it still be set up using the external switching jacks on the back of the Recto and the control switcher box, instead of using the DIN cable? There are only 4 jacks on the back of the new Rectos, and ch1 is default when ch2 or 3 are not selected.

-AJH

Oh yeah. It'll work with the external switches, but you will need 2 of the switchers, and a good midi pedal. a rocktron midi mate would be a good midi pedal for a pretty cheap price.

Thanks so much. I forgot about that pedal. That looks great! Reading the manual now....

-AJH