Relay or mechanical DPDT

[fabiomayo]

Hi, everyone!

Thanks for this space. It's only my second post but I already spent quite a while reading through those pages (and learning a LOT by the way). I got a ODS based amplifier from a local tech. Scott and Gary already gave me real nice pointers on how to make it sound better and I'm yet to experiment more intensively...

Anyway, I have a small question. I did search but could not find a specific answer for it. Why would you use a relay instead of a mechanical switch?

Mine has DPDT toggle switches yet it uses DPDT relay switching to preamp boost, channel select and post OD tone stack boost. They do pop and it is annoying (I'll put the diodes in there soon to see how it goes). They are powered in series from the heaters (and I don't think they have the fancy alternatives presented here for noise reduction). I noticed many of you use the relay system. Now, this is an honest question (and sorry if it's a dumb one that has already been answered): why do you do so and how this technique compares to using the mechanical switches alone (as seen on schematics)?

Thanks everyone!

All the best...

[Normster]

The primary reason is so you can connect a footswitch.

[pedro]

..and of course its possible (and usual) to wire so that you can switch using both the footswitch during performance , or from a panel switch.

I'm not following a strictly dumble layout, and used the switching methods outlined at the Hoffman amps site - search around and you'll find the way to set up the channel switching relay with both footswitch and a panel switch .

I'll send the link later when I get time.

There have also been many posts looking at ways to set up the switching - do a search on the forum postings and you'll find them.

good luck with it,
Rgds
Pete C

[fabiomayo]

Thanks, guys.

Yes, Normster. Thanks a lot. I haven't even considered the footswitch (how dumb am I, huh?). When I traced the amp I just ignored all footswitch wiring and forgot all about it . The three switches mentioned are the ones that can be activated from the footswitch too...

Thanks, pedro. It already is wired to work both ways. I'll just add the diode to try and minimize the pop...


Thanks a lot guys!

[dogears]

Hey Fabio,

Check your PM!