What is the Strymon MultiSwitch?

The MultiSwitch is an external three-button footswitch designed to add extra control and functionality to Strymon BigSky, TimeLine, and Mobius pedals.

Which pedals are compatible with the MultiSwitch?

It is officially designed for use with the Strymon TimeLine delay, the BigSky reverb, and the Mobius modulation pedals.

Does the MultiSwitch require a power supply?

No, the MultiSwitch does not require a separate power source. It is powered through the TRS cable connection from the host pedal.

How does the MultiSwitch connect to a pedal?

It connects via a standard 1/4 inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable into the 'EXP' (Expression) jack of the compatible Strymon pedal.

What looper features does it add to the TimeLine?

When used with the TimeLine, it provides dedicated Record/Overdub, Play, and Stop buttons, and introduces three new looper effects: Reverse, Half Speed, and Undo/Redo.

Can the MultiSwitch be used to change presets?

Yes, it can be configured in 'Bank Mode' to scroll through banks or 'Preset Mode' to select between the three presets within a current bank.

Is the TRS cable included with the purchase?

Yes, Strymon includes a 1/4 inch TRS cable in the box for connecting the MultiSwitch to your pedal.

Does this footswitch work with other brands like Fender or Tama?

No, the MultiSwitch is specifically engineered for Strymon's digital architecture and is not intended for use with Fender bridges or Tama drum hardware.

Can I use it as a standard expression pedal?

No, it is a discrete footswitch controller. It occupies the expression jack but functions as a set of switches rather than a continuous variable pedal.

How much does the MultiSwitch typically cost?

The typical price for a new Strymon MultiSwitch is approximately £139.

Do I need to change any settings on my pedal to use it?

Yes, you must enter the 'Global Settings' menu on your Strymon pedal and set the 'EXP MD' (Expression Mode) to 'MULTIS' for it to function correctly.

Can it control multiple pedals at once?

Standard operation involves connecting to one pedal at a time. To control multiple units, a more complex MIDI setup would generally be required instead.

Gear article

Strymon MultiSwitch Footswitch

The Strymon MultiSwitch is a dedicated three-button external controller designed to expand the functionality of Strymon's high-performance effects units. It connects via a single TRS cable to unlock advanced looper controls and preset navigation on compatible pedals such as the TimeLine, BigSky, and Mobius.

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Overview

The Strymon MultiSwitch is an accessory designed to provide hands-free control over various parameters within Strymon's 'Big Box' pedal series. By offloading specific functions to an external hardware interface, players can access features that would otherwise require deep menu diving or complex button combinations on the main unit. It is housed in a rugged metal chassis consistent with Strymon's build quality standards.

Connectivity and Setup

The device operates without the need for an external power supply, as it draws what it requires from the host pedal. Connection is established using the included 1/4" TRS cable. To use the MultiSwitch, the user must plug it into the 'Expression' input of a TimeLine, BigSky, or Mobius and configure the pedal's internal global settings to recognise the MultiSwitch as the input source.

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Functional Modes

The MultiSwitch offers different utility modes depending on the host pedal it is paired with:

TimeLine Looper Control: Provides dedicated switches for Record/Overdub, Play, and Stop. It also unlocks 'hidden' looper effects: Reverse, Half Speed, and Undo/Redo.
Bank Mode: Allows for easy scrolling through presets and banks on the BigSky, TimeLine, or Mobius.
Preset Mode: Gives direct access to three specific presets within a bank, facilitating quick switching during live performances.

Sound and Character

As a control peripheral, the MultiSwitch does not process audio signals and therefore has no intrinsic 'sound' or tonal character. Its impact is purely ergonomic and functional, allowing for more fluid transitions and creative manipulation of the digital effects engines found in the host pedals. The switches are designed for silent, reliable operation in professional stage environments.

Suitability and Alternatives

This footswitch is specifically suited for guitarists and synthesists who use Strymon pedals and require immediate access to looper functions or preset navigation without bending down. While generic momentary footswitches or MIDI controllers can perform similar tasks, the MultiSwitch is the only dedicated hardware solution designed to provide the specific 'hidden' looper effects on the TimeLine in a plug-and-play format.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Strymon MultiSwitch?: The MultiSwitch is an external three-button footswitch designed to add extra control and functionality to Strymon BigSky, TimeLine, and Mobius pedals.
Which pedals are compatible with the MultiSwitch?: It is officially designed for use with the Strymon TimeLine delay, the BigSky reverb, and the Mobius modulation pedals.
Does the MultiSwitch require a power supply?: No, the MultiSwitch does not require a separate power source. It is powered through the TRS cable connection from the host pedal.
How does the MultiSwitch connect to a pedal?: It connects via a standard 1/4 inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable into the 'EXP' (Expression) jack of the compatible Strymon pedal.
What looper features does it add to the TimeLine?: When used with the TimeLine, it provides dedicated Record/Overdub, Play, and Stop buttons, and introduces three new looper effects: Reverse, Half Speed, and Undo/Redo.
Can the MultiSwitch be used to change presets?: Yes, it can be configured in 'Bank Mode' to scroll through banks or 'Preset Mode' to select between the three presets within a current bank.
Is the TRS cable included with the purchase?: Yes, Strymon includes a 1/4 inch TRS cable in the box for connecting the MultiSwitch to your pedal.
Does this footswitch work with other brands like Fender or Tama?: No, the MultiSwitch is specifically engineered for Strymon's digital architecture and is not intended for use with Fender bridges or Tama drum hardware.
Can I use it as a standard expression pedal?: No, it is a discrete footswitch controller. It occupies the expression jack but functions as a set of switches rather than a continuous variable pedal.
How much does the MultiSwitch typically cost?: The typical price for a new Strymon MultiSwitch is approximately £139.
Do I need to change any settings on my pedal to use it?: Yes, you must enter the 'Global Settings' menu on your Strymon pedal and set the 'EXP MD' (Expression Mode) to 'MULTIS' for it to function correctly.
Can it control multiple pedals at once?: Standard operation involves connecting to one pedal at a time. To control multiple units, a more complex MIDI setup would generally be required instead.